A regional charity is currently delivering an exciting new cross border programme in the Monaghan and South Tyrone areas entitled ‘Peace Dividends.’

YouthAction Northern Ireland is a membership based regional charity which has a 65 year history in working with young people to tackle inequalities in their lives, improve their life chances and contribute to communities. Targeting young people aged 13-25, the charity works with young people within their own communities to explore identity, culture, community and peace and will support young people to create their own ‘Symbol of Peace’ for their community.  Some projects to date have included creating short films on the local community, mosaics, music pieces and art work as a symbol of peace.

Four workshops promoting the project are set to take place next month. The workshops allow young people to get a taste of the programme and the locations are listed below:

Oakland Community Centre, Glaslough, Co Monaghan – Tuesday, 10 August 2010

Clara Hall, Clara, Co Monaghan – Thursday, 12 August 2010

Galbally Community Centre, Galbally, Co Tyrone – Tuesday, 3 August 2010

Fivemiletown Youth Annex, Fivemiletown College, Co Tyrone – Thursday, 5 August 2010

All workshops run from 2pm – 6pm and food will be served. The workshops will involve games, art activities and an opportunity to find out more about what’s on offer in your community. Workshops are open to all young people aged 13-25, and everyone is welcome.

Through the programme YouthAction Northern Ireland aims to support young people to become active peace builders within their own community and build strong links with local community groups to contribute to sustainable rural communities. There is also an opportunity for young people to gain accreditation by completing an OCNNI in Good Relations and Cultural Diversity and also Youth Achievement Awards.

If you are interested in your community being involved please contact Brenda Mc Elroy at YouthAction Northern Ireland on 048 85556882 or e-mail Brenda@youthaction.org for more information.