New youth centre opens in west end Belleville

A project that was started in 2015 finally came to fruition on Monday night.

Quinte Youth Unlimited opened its new youth centre at 444 Dundas Street West, offering a safe space to socialize, along with programs aimed mainly at high school-aged students.

The centre features video games, a pool table, air hockey and other youth-friendly activities. Executive Director Colin Leaver says the goal is to give young people a place to hang out and be supported.

A firm schedule is still being developed, but the centre offers drop-in, leadership and arts programs, as well as games nights and homework help.

Leaver adds the centre is modeled after some other successful ones already operating around the Quinte Region and was made possible largely through the support of close to 30 community partners.

While Youth Unlimited is a faith-based organization, Leaver says anyone with any beliefs is welcome at the centre.

You can click here to visit the QYU website to learn more about the centre and its programs.

Quinte Youth Unlimited Executive Director Colin Leaver speaks at the opening of the group’s new youth centre on Dundas Street West in Belleville. (Photo: David Foot / Quinte News)

A cake celebrating the opening of Quinte Youth Unlimited’s new youth centre on Dundas Street West in Belleville. (Photo: David Foot / Quinte News)

Quinte Youth Unlimited Executive Director Colin Leaver speaks at the opening celebration for the group’s new youth centre on Dundas Street West in Belleville. (Photo: David Foot / Quinte News)