Successful youth program for children of refugees

Child and Youth Programs

The Multicultural Association of Fredericton, NB, Canada has developed a very effective and successful youth program for recent immigrants and children of refugees.

The program consists of several sub-programs:

• Rainbow of Cultures Summer Camp, children 6 to 16 take part in activities with both cultural and social themes. Diverse nationalities are matched by children from local families. Lasting friendships and communication and social skills are the outcomes. A homework club is offered in partnership with Frontier College for newcomer children and youth. A sport program is offered with the sport equipment provided and program registration provided if necessary. This program received funding from private sponsors and government. Many of our participants become sought for members of local teams.
• The MCAF Music program is also a result of private business donation and government funds. Musical instruments were purchased and a music teacher was hired. the program goals is to build self esteem and integration into the local community. It offers support to children that their parents are not able to provide at this point in their life, especially considering the expense for sports equipment and musical instruments, music lessons and team registration.
• A youth group was organized to help young newcomers become aware of the local youth culture, offer entertainment, friendship and support. It is greatly appreciated and includes such things as dances, movie nights, pizza parties, picnics and outings to the lake and hiking.

Location:

Fredericton, NB., Canada

Policy/practice area:

Cultural integration

Keywords:

Arts, Citizenship and regularization, Community building, Culture and diversity, Education, Intercultural outreach, Literacy, Prevention of crisis , School, Youth,

Integration Practitioner:

Civil society organization

Name of Organization:

Multicultural Association of Fredericton

Website:

http://www.mcaf.nb.Ca

Contact Information:

123 York Street, Suite 201
Fredericton, NB, Canada
Phone: 506 454 8292
Email: mcaf@mcaf.nb.ca

Other stakeholders involved in this practice:

• New Brunswick Multicultural Council
• Canadian Council for Refugees