The Westbank First Nation has opened its new youth centre.
The impressive 14,000-square foot building brings all WFN serves for children and youth together under one roof and includes an early years eduction centre on the second floor.
"This building meets the needs of our youth because today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders,” said Carol Derickson, director of community services for the WFN during the opening ceremony.
The centre, the latest in a group of community buildings in what the WFN calls its community core on Quail Lane features a host of facilities such as recreation area, a kitchen, storage , office space and outdoor amenities.
During a well-attended official open ceremony Friday, former WFN chief Robert Louie said youth services have long been a priority for the WFN council and the long journey that culminated in the opening of the centre Friday was just a beginning, a view echoed by current chief Roxanne Lindley.
Both called it a proud moment for the WFN.
The centre will be open to the entire community and is expected to be a popular place for young people from the area.