Priority neighbourhoods still to be selected Continued from page 1 3 · Thursday, October 4, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com community," noted Flynn. While the four neighbourhoods to be deemed a priority have yet to be chosen, that's the next step in the project -- along with hiring a manager to oversee the program -- according to McKenzie. The YMCA of Oakville will work with other social service agencies, such as Community Development Halton (CDH), to identify areas most in need of social programs. "We will be looking at areas of Oakville where specific resources and services are needed and not currently available to all children, teens and young adults within that neighbourhood," McKenzie said. Criteria for being characterized underserved, include access to transportation, geographic barriers, demographics, community infrastructure and income levels, said McKenzie. Once the neighbourhoods have been selected, their residents will be asked for input so unique programming can be designed. A rollout of programs in one of the neighbourhoods should happen some time next year. "Following a similar process, and subject to additional funding, programs in the additional priority neighbourhoods will be launched each year, resulting in more than 20 programs in the four neighbourhoods by 2016," stated a press release. To start, the project will include approximately five to seven programs focused on the health and well-being of infants to children aged 12 years. Health programs for youths aged 13-17 years will also be offered. · More Fun! · Exercise! · Self Confidence! · Meet People! · Grace & Poise! MICHAEL IVANIN / SPECIAL TO THE BEAVER / @halton_photog MAKING YOUTH A PRIORITY:TheYMCA of Oakville announced its Priority Neighbourhoods Project thanks to a three-year Ontario Trillium Foundation grant. From left, Bill Allison, Trillium HaltonPeel Grant Review Team volunteer, Sean O'Meara, Oakville MPP Kevin Flynn's constituency office manager, YMCA President and CEO Darryl McKenzie, and Y board Chair Lindsay Williams. contributions from the Oakville community," he said. "With the support of individuals, community leaders, corporations and foundations, we can continue to strengthen our neighbourhoods and provide new outreach programs that respond to the evolving needs of our community. "The project will follow a communitydevelopment model designed to build longterm capacity at the neighbourhood level -- it's really about strengthening neighbourhood supports by connecting with local residents, understanding the opportunities and challenges they face and working with them to create and deliver free, accessible neighbourhood-based programs and services." For more information on the Priority Neighbourhoods Project, visit www. ymcaoakville.com. While the three-year Trillium grant has invested enough cash to launch the project, McKenzie said additional funding will be needed to make the programs sustainable. "Actual project costs will only be known once all four priority neighbourhoods have been identified and local residents have determined what program and services will most benefit the children, teens and young adults living in their specific neighbourhood," he said. McKenzie noted he is hopeful local charities and organizations the YMCA will partner with to deliver programs will also contribute staff, volunteers, or funds to this project. "Full implementation of this project over the next five years will require additional PRIME RIB DINNER RESERVE YOUR TABLE NOW Certified Angus Prime Rib EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY FROM 4:00 P.M. $ (Plus taxes and gratuities) 3995 per person 5 LESSONS for SPECIAL OFFER $ By yourself or with a partner. New Students Over 21 Only. 25 * Including a choice of Appetizer, Mini Dessert and Coffee Offered every Friday and Saturday at Stone House Restaurant. 3106 South Service Road Burlington (between Guelph Line & Walkers Line) 1092 Main Street W. near Cline Ave. 225 Lakeshore Rd. E. (2nd Floor) between Dunn St. and George St. OAKVILLE HAMILTON 905-632-1316 www.stonehouserestaurant.ca www.fredastaire .ca 905 815-3237 905 522-3237 OAKVILLE S C I R T A I D E P ARE PEDIATRIC URGENT C PEDIATRIC URGENT CARE PEDIATRICS CLINIC · PEDIATRIC ASTHMA CLINIC · TRAVEL CLINIC · ALLERGY CLINIC First Oakville's Children Walk-IN clinic Our pediatrician is accepting new PATIENTS now. Providing Compounding & FREE medication flavouring, Insulin Pump Supplies & Diabetes Specialty for Kids 15% DISCOUNT PROGRAM. Hours: Mon-Fri: 9:30am - 7:00pm Sat: 10:00am - 3:00pm 905-469-9988 2540 Postmaster Drive @ Dundas St. W. · www.Oakvillepediatrics.com · 905-847-KIDS (5437)