I have always been the type of person who likes being involved in the wider community. Since I was about 14 years old I have been involved in various residents events/groups, such as the Active Community Tenants network (Act), helping to set up and run, as Youth Officer, the Residents Environmental Green Group (REGG) and the REGG website.
I have also, with the backing and support of DCHA, been on a number of training courses in various subjects. For example Women’s Studies, Environmental Issues and, most recently (July 08) at the National Communities Resource Centre, Trafford Hall, Nr Chester.
My mum and I attended a course on the role of a RSL board member, although I am not a RSL board member I do sit on the board of a charity for the homeless, so this course was a real help. It was also interesting and fun plus I was able to meet lots of new people. Even though I was the youngest person on the course I was well accepted and encouraged to say what I felt and contribute to the many verbal presentation, group talks, team assignments etc.
Having the chance to do these training courses and to be involved in many residents groups/events has really helped me learn more about many community and social housing issues. I feel it has also helped me ‘grow’ as a person. I would like to finish by saying to other young people who are DCHG residents to come on and get involved. It’s interesting, educational and a fun way to become an active member of your own and the wider community.
The more of us that get involved will also help redress the age balance and the negative press us young people tend to get.
Lesley Browne can help you get involved in whatever you are interested in doing. You may even have a new idea and could get support/help in starting your own young residents group. I hope to see some of you very soon.
Crystal
