Staff and youth with Prince Albert Outreach shared an anti-bullying message Thursday afternoon at the Kinsmen Park Amphitheatre. Speakers at Thursday’s event had some advice on how caregivers can support youth dealing with bullying and intimidation. “I would say never expect them to open up to you if you’re the caregiver, but find them support,” said Prince Albert Outreach staff member Crystal Penner. “Always offer them extra options because teenagers never really want to talk to mom or caregiver, but they might be open to something else and be open-minded. Don’t be hurt if they don’t want to talk to you. Just find them what they need.” Along with advice, speakers like high school student Zoey shared their personal journeys dealing with bullying. “I started to see the school counsellor, and she really put things into perspective for me,” shared Zoey in her speech. “She taught me that not everyone is out to get me, and there are people here that do truly love me. So, I decided to start taking counseling in school more seriously, and it made all the difference.” The event was part of Ride Out Intimidation, the BRP motor vehicle company’s ongoing campaign encouraging communities to stand up to bullying. Prince Albert Outreach staff member Kehinde Passe explained that public events are only one form of advocacy. “Sometimes advocacy, it looks like standing at an event with the microphone, but sometimes it means helping a young person navigate a difficult conversation at school,” he said. Part of the event was announcing that BRP made a sponsorship donation to Prince Albert Outreach, a program that offers social support, therapy and a safe place to go for Prince Albert’s youth. Prince Albert Outreach encourages youth who may not be ready to ask for help to check out the Talking Stick app, Kids Help Phone, and the suicide prevention line if needed.
