Written by Jonathan, Peanutt and the 2024 Rec Aides.

The Recreation Aide program was created with community engagement and equitable recreational opportunities in mind. Each year, a handful of summer aides come back to participate in the year-round program. The program started during the pandemic as an opportunity to provide safe and structured programming to youth. From creating how-to craft videos to supporting events and everything in between, the recreation aides play a crucial role in creating an inclusive and fun space for youth in the community.

So far in 2024, the Rec Aides have started out strong with 4 programs:

At its core, the recreation aide program revolves around creating informative videos to promote the programs and events at the White Center Teen Program. The video production studio also gives the rec aides the opportunity to explore their creativity and techniques, especially in this age of technology. From weekly crafts videos to program overviews, the rec-aides are always finding new ways to stay engaged with the community.

One project that branched from the video production studio is the “Rec Aides’ Real Talk,” a podcast created by Michelle and Katherine who dives into the complexities of the Teen Program and the community surrounding it. Also, bringing on guests to share their stories as well as bringing awareness to the many different perspectives that happen within the 4 walls of the “Log Cabin.”

Aliyah and Manira, two of the recreation aides, have started hosting a weekly ceramics program, providing youth with hands-on experience to explore their artistic side and talents through clay molding. Whether it’s new participants just starting out or the avid participant coming every week, there’s a little bit for everyone to do.

Cooking in the White Center Teen Program is a staple. The participants very quickly figure out why “Burnt Toast” is one of the most popular programs, as more and more food is being provided to the participants each and every day. Curiosity around how simple ingredients can be made into delicious and nutritious meals is a daily occurrence. That’s why Charmanie and Autumn have started to collect recipes from the chefs to make the meals more accessible. But it doesn’t just stop at the chefs in the WCTP. They wanted to expand it to everyone in the community so everyone can appreciate the culture around food.

To learn more about the recreation aides. Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. As well as the WCTeenprogram.org website!