A joint data mining collaboration between local and national adult education organizations is getting underway.

The Community Action Research Project is aimed at understanding the experiences of Prince Edward County youth aged 12 – 29 and the project is expected to create a snapshot of young people’s mental health, community engagement, financial situation, education status and employment circumstances.

The goal is to use this information to create effective supports and safe space for young people in the County Prince Edward Learning Centre (PELC) and the Students Commission of Canada have partnered on this project and are working with other local, youth-centred organizations like the ROC and the Greater Than County Youth Collective to undergo this research.

The survey responses will reveal whether organizations are meeting youth need and service gaps or fresh issues may come to light, such as barriers created by the COVID 19 pandemic. Information found through this project will be able to help local youth centric organizations apply for funding to continue or create programming that meets the identified youth needs. The surveys are online and responses are anonymous and Youth who participate will receive a $25 giftcard of their choosing.

To find out more or complete the surveys, youth can join Zoom information sessions held almost every weekday from 3-4 p.m. The Zoom links are found at www.pelc.ca , by clicking the PEC Youth Survey Button on the home page. The PEC Youth Survey page has information on the organizations involved, how to complete the surveys, and how to receive a gift card.

This exciting project will help youth voices to be heard and shape positive changes for Prince Edward County! Please contact project facilitator, Chantelle Edwards, or call the PELC office for more information at: chantelle@pelc.ca or (613) 476 – 1811.

-Staff