Youth invited to become part of Region book project

Halton Region youth between the ages of 13 and 19 are invited to express their individuality by sharing their creative talents. This Is Me, a book designed to give youth a venue to express their authentic selves, is requesting submissions of photography, artwork, short fiction, creative non-fiction, and poetry. The deadline for entry is March 19, 2007. This is Me was originally an Oakville Youth Development Centre (OYDC) initiative that now continues to be supported by the Halton Regional Youth Advisory Committee (HRYAC). This is the second edition of the book and any proceeds generated through voluntary donations will go directly to youth-related charities across Halton Region. "This is a great opportunity for Halton's youth to contribute to a project which will recognize and celebrate the strengths of local youth, and give back to the community," said Gary Carr, Halton Regional Chair. "As Halton Regional Chair and as a member of Halton Regional Youth Advisory Committee, I know firsthand the talent and creativity youth have." According to Dr. Bob Nosal, Halton Region Medical Officer of Health, "Communities that support youth play an important part in helping them achieve positive outcomes and to avoid risk taking behaviour, including substance use. Supporting initiatives like This Is Me and HYRAC are an important part of how staff in the Health Department work with Halton youth." For more information on This Is Me, please visit the HYRAC website www.haltonyouth.com, e-mail thisismebook@gmail.com or call the Halton Region's Health Department at 905-825-6000, toll free, 1-866-442-4256 or TTY 905-827-9833. Submissions can be sent directly to This Is Me, 420 Main St. E, Suite #460, Milton, ON, L9T 5G3. Parental/guardian consent is required for submissions.