Local Garda Youth Diversion Coordinator Robert Green this week saluted the young people of Mallow after figures showed that youth crime is down in the area. A significant factor in these figures is the success of the CDYS Garda Youth Diversion Project based in the Mallow Community Youth Centre. This project is run by CDYS in con-junction with An Garda Síochána on a referral basis. Since its formation in Mallow in 2007, young people referred to the project have benefited from a large number of initiatives designed to challenge and develop the positive aspects of their lives.
“It is not just a case of finding things for young people to do” said project coordinator Robert Green, “it is finding positive ways of challenging young people to become better citizens.”
Robert continued “Most of the work is done on a one to one basis where we build a productive relation-ship with a young person and design a programme to help them progress as young adults.”
On behalf of the project Robert thanked everyone who helped in 2012 and looked forward to 2013. Robert also took the opportunity to wish everyone a happy Christmas and a peaceful new year.
Bingo Jackpot won
Local man Robert Walmsley was the lucky winner of the CDYS Mallow Bingo jackpot last Sunday night at the Mallow Community Youth Centre. On a night of high drama in front of a large crowd Mr Walmsley claimed the €2,050 jackpot on the 53rd and final call. And what a night to claim it just nine days before Christmas. Congratulations Robert from everyone in CDYS. The CDYS bingo is holding a special Christmas night this week as the prize money for the line across and full house games from the books is increased to €30 and €100 respectively for one night only. Doors open at 7.30pm on Sunday night for an 8pm start. The bingo then takes a break until January 6th so be sure to get your fill in before the holiday season.
Teenage Dreamers
The CDYS Teenage Drea-mers have been extremely busy for the last couple of weeks taking part in painting projects and art competitions. CDYS Teenage Dreamers girls group were delighted to take part in the ‘Life Path’ Labyrinth which is located in the Gilbert Centre in Mallow. The girls painted a concrete slab with things that are important to them on their own personal life journey. This project gave the girls a great opportunity to reflect on their own life journeys so far. The group also took part in Youth Work Ireland national ‘Nollaig’ Christmas card competition. Sharon Doody, group leader and on work placement with CDYS got the group to enter the competition. All the entries from the girls were outstanding with Amy Begley winning her category of 16-18 year olds. Amy drew a Christmas tree, wishing everybody a happy Christmas in different languages. She won a voucher and also got her picture framed as well as receiving 20 Christmas cards with her design on them. Heartiest congratulations to Amy and the other members of the group Gemma, Cliona and Charlotte.