Community Centre adds new programs

Community Centre summer program leaders play on the slide at Queen’s Park Elementary School across from the new Community Centre. (From left to right) Ethan Tyler, Nikki Kiddler, Megan Mottishaw, Michelle Rupitz, Kelsey Kotzian, Dana Hare, Bailey Ingram and Adam Jones.

Rebecca Selvig/Western News

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The new and improved Penticton Community Centre, which opened June 6, has added several new programs to their list of summer activities.

The programs, which commenced June 24, will run at different times throughout the summer until the end of August.

The nine new children and youth programs include the Teen Outdoor Survival Course, Teen Dance Camp, Youth Outdoor Leadership, Intro to Mountain Biking and Byte Camp: Flash Video Game Design, among others.

“These are quality programs that create those cherished summer memories that last a lifetime,” said Bob Pope, recreation co-ordinator for the Community Centre.

The Community Centre programs have been aided by Junior Chamber International since 1995 through both general funds in order for costs to remain low as well as scholarships specifically for families that cannot afford it.

“We’re trying to find more ways to get low-income families funding,” said Pope.

Megan Mottishaw, program co-ordinator, is in her sixth summer with the Community Centre. She spent four years as a leader and was promoted to program co-ordinator last year.

“I love it. It’s rewarding to see the children appreciate what you’ve done for them,” she said.

Mottishaw, one of the eight student leaders, will be finishing up her education this year with aspirations to become a high school biology teacher.

“As much as I love the smaller children,” she said with a laugh, “I want to experience teaching older kids,” adding that she believes a big part of her acceptance into the education program at the University of Victoria was because of her extended experience with the Community Centre.

Mottishaw will be leading week-long camps for children age six to 12 with themes like Back to the Future, Blockbuster Extra, Amazing Race, Let’s Go H2O and Survivor.

For more information on programs, pick up a recreation guide from the Community Centre or call 250-490-2426.