Learn how to help your child or teen manage stress at a free Parents’ Night Out event sponsored by the New Westminster Police Department.
The two-hour session aims to teach parents about common mental health challenges and stressors in childhood, how these things impact kids and teens and why mental wellness is important. Christine Yu of AnxietyB.C., a non-profit group trying to increase awareness about anxiety disorders, promote education, and increase access to evidence-based resources and treatments, will lead the event.
Parents will also be given a step-by-step guide to help their children and teenagers manage stress and “build resilience,” noted an event write-up.
A doctor and reps from local service groups will be on hand after the talk to provide more information. The event is open to all parents and caregivers.
Moving from Mental Health to Mental Wellness is on Tuesday, Oct. 25 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the auditorium at the Justice Institute of B.C., 715 McBride Blvd.
It’s almost Halloween
Celebrate Halloween at École Herbert Spencer Elementary School.
Spencer’s parent advisory council is hosting a family-friendly school dance on Thursday, Oct. 27. There will be a pumpkin carving and decorating contest, interactive displays, a costume contest and movies suitable for primary students plus a concession stand and sweet treats.
Tickets are $5 per family or $2 per person and are available at the door. The dance is from 6 to 8 p.m. and Herbert Spencer is at 605 Second St.
Get involved!
The City of New Westminster is looking for young people to help make a difference in the community by joining the youth advisory committee.
Chaired by Coun. Patrick Johnstone, the committee acts as a resource to city council on issues that affect youth. It also provides viewpoints on issues including community safety, health, recreation, employment and environment, and encourages youth to get involved and educated in the goings on at city council. The committee meets six times a year.
If you’re a New West resident between 13 and 21 years old, this is your chance to get involved and show the community what a positive impact youth can have on the city.
The committee is looking for 15 people to join. The deadline to apply has been extended to Friday, Oct. 21. Applications can be downloaded here.
Award up for grabs
Youth involved in the LGBTQ community are being encouraged to apply for the January Marie Lapuz Youth Leadership Award.
Sher Vancouver, a social, cultural and support organization for LGBTQ South Asians and friends, facilitates the annual award. It’s worth $500 and is given to a youth who has demonstrated involvement, commitment and leadership in the LGBTQ community, either locally, nationally or internationally.
The award is named after New Westminster resident January Lapuz, who was murdered in her home on Sept. 30, 2012. Lapuz was the social coordinator for Sher Vancouver and beloved by many, often referred to Sher’s own Beyoncé.
Anyone between 16 and 30 years old can apply – no matter gender or sexual identity, race, culture or background – and the deadline is Dec. 31. The winner will be announced in January. For the full criteria and application instructions, click here.
