Breathing new life back into Kempsey PCYC

Anika took on the role of club manager in February this year, but due to COVID-19 restrictions many programs at the Kempsey PCYC were put on hold and the club was closed.

"We were shut for about six weeks, it was a struggle," Anika said.

"It's been a whirlwind since COVID and we're just starting up the programs again."

Kempsey born and bred, Anika said she has always felt passionate about the local community.

"When I took over management of Kempsey PCYC, I felt there was a disconnect between the club and the community. That's something I really want to change, to build engagement with the community," Anika said.

"My whole family is local and I grew up in Greenhill. My family always instilled the importance of community in me and it's something I am teaching my children now.

"I think being a local means my passion to get the club up and running the best that it can is even stronger," she said.

The club has started its regular community programs and is also introducing new activities for locals to get involved in.

"We have 13 new programs that we're starting and they cater to all different ages. We have programs for children and for adults as well."

Some new programs at the club include Boogie Bounce, which is a fun trampoline workout for different ages plus activities with lego, robotics, music and culture.

"We received a donation from Kempsey Rotary and have used it to invest in language resources that will be used to teach Dunghutti language classes," Anika said.

"We're also going to start gymnastics in Term 4 and boxing will be starting up again as well."

The club is also running its regular breakfast program and Friday youth nights again.

"The Friday night program is designed to get youth off the street and continue to build that engagement between police and local youth," Anika said.

"The first Friday night program we ran had around 30 youth, but that has grown to 70. We've come such a long way and are continuing to start new programs to get people involved.

"The feedback we've had so far has been great, people are getting excited about the programs we have coming up."

The Kempsey PCYC club has always worked to create engagement between local police and youth, this is also something Anika is passionate about.

Anika will be meeting the new Mid North Coast Police District Commander Shane Cribb when he visits the club on Friday.

"We have two police officers who are stationed at Kempsey PCYC and we will continue to work with the police to get the outcomes the community needs," Anika said.

The club welcomes any volunteers who want to get involved and members of the community who want to attend programs at the club.

"The club is here for everyone in the community and we're back open. Back with a bang," Anika said.

Locals can find out more about the current and upcoming programs at Kempsey PCYC by staying up to date on the club's Facebook page or by calling the club directly on 6562 8399.