Every year at Choices for Youth (CFY) we come together to celebrate the achievements of young people. Youth, staff, volunteers, government partners, and community members all gather to recognize the perseverance, resiliency, and progress of the young people at CFY. This year’s Annual General Meeting and Youth Celebration was held on June 12th at the C.L.B. Armory – a bigger venue than we’ve used in past years, to accommodate the growing number of youth and partners looking to share in the spirit of the day!
The planning committee did an outstanding job highlighting the many successes across our organization. From the youth quotes and artwork that decorated each table, to the youth co-host and rolling slideshow that showed a glimpse of everyday life at CFY, there was no detail that was overlooked. Guests were able to hear from CFY’s Acting Executive Director and Chair of the Board of Directors, and Deputy Minister Susan Walsh of the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development brought greetings on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. There were many moments of reflection on CFY’s commitment to supporting youth throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, and young people’s commitment to supporting themselves in healthy, meaningful ways.
The event was meant to showcase the potential of the young people in our community, and you could feel the energy and inspiration throughout the full two-hour event. Three young people shared their personal stories on stage, and one youth closed out the show by delivering a powerful musical performance. Awards were given out to multiple young people who achieved milestones in education, showed resiliency in the face of extreme challenges, and who displayed perseverance throughout their journey. Some awards are steeped in legacy, named for incredible individuals who have helped to shape CFY’s programs and culture, and the meaning and impact of each award was felt and appreciated by everyone in attendance. There were countless smiles, some tears during impactful moments, and an overall sense of progress and forward momentum that won’t slow down anytime soon for the young people across CFY.
We are lucky to be able to partner with businesses and organizations to help make our AGM and Youth Celebration come to life. Many thanks go out to the team at the C.L.B. Armoury, Mary Brown’s, and Ches’s for helping us with our venue and catering needs. To the many community members who took time to attend and celebrate with us and our staff for continuously supporting young people on every step of their journey: we appreciate you. To the young people who show courage and strength during the highs and the lows: thank you for letting us be a part of your story and for giving us so many reasons to celebrate each year!