Halifax-area youth surveyed about recreation programs

Halifax is trying to shape its recreation programs for the future and has turned to teenagers in the city to help it do it.

An online survey has been launched with the goal of getting 1,000 youth to fill it out.

Lee Moore, a community developer with the city, told CBC's Information Morning the goal is to learn if there are any gaps in programming and take a look at existing programs.

"It's looking at two things with it to make sure we are meeting the services and needs of the youth that are actually in this city," he said.

Right now, the Halifax Regional Municipality offers everything from basketball to art to leadership programs, but not all recreation centres offer the same programming.

Of particular importance, said Moore, are leadership programs that are designed to give youth an opportunity to build a resumé and gain volunteer experience.

"Really take them on a path they may not have thought of or expose them to those interests they may not have realized they were interested in," he said.

The city has formed a youth team comprised of 13 teenagers who are helping get the word out.

Social media is being used to advertise the campaign and next month posters and flyers will go out into the communities.

Youth who take the survey have a chance to win prizes and Moore said 200 have already given their opinions.

"It's great to have those discussions with them and we can actually say, 'OK, we actually talked to and actually heard from youth,' so it makes our information when we go to regional council a lot more meaningful," he said.