DRAYTON – The Drayton Youth Centre was established in the fall of 1999 by a group of people who saw a need for the youth of the local community to have a place to call their “home away from home.”
The first location in a church basement on Spring Street soon became a very busy place three evenings a week.
Volunteers jumped on board to help it thrive. Calvin Martin was one of those caring people.
As the centre proved its value to the community by keeping youth off the streets, a new and larger location was found on Wellington Street close to the lights.
Martin helped with that move and was invited to be a board member.
Since the beginning of 2000, Martin has been a trusted friend and mentor to many youth and volunteers who have passed through the centre’s doors.
He has helped organize numerous trips and activities and raised thousands of dollars toward its operation.
After serving over 22 years in a vital role on the board of directors supporting the Drayton Youth Centre’s long success, Martin has decided it is time to allow someone else to take over his role.
“Thank you, Calvin, for your exemplary service to our community. We cannot thank you enough,” centre officials state.
When asked what it takes to be a successful board member, Martin describes what he and all centre volunteers have been: “community oriented people who care about the youth of Mapleton, and desire to assist in giving them a safe, relaxed place to socialize and relate with each other in a Christian-based environment.
“The centre relies on people who are willing to give some of their time to serve the community to help our young people thrive socially, personally and spiritually.”
Anyone interested in being a positive influence in a young person’s life to make their community a better place and help mentor future leaders, is urged to contact a board member for further information.
Volunteers serve three evening hours once a month. Board members meet every four to six weeks.
