The fourth annual Prince Albert Youth Activity Fair (YAF) was a resounding success with great support, phenomenal sponsorship, and a ton of registrations.
A variety of community clubs and organizations set up shop at the Gateway Mall on Saturday, Aug. 29th in support of the 2015 YAF. A steady flow of families made their way through the fair, learning about local options for activity, trying some of the attractions, and registering youth for new programs.
Kids enjoyed a meet-and-greet with local firefighters, took a shot on the hockey nets, and spent the afternoon bouncing in the inflatable castles. Parents also got involved, some trying their hand at fencing and others munching on popcorn and meeting club organizers.
“Kids were having a blast, as well as many adults,” said Rachelle Lavoie-Stumpf, co-coordinator and caseworker at Ranch Ehrlo. “Kids were drawn to the fabulous activities going on, numerous prizes were given away, and of course our grand prize of a free registration (up to $500) was a big hit.”
This year’s YAF featured a number of local vendors including hockey, soccer, and swimming clubs but also the lesser-known organizations such as the Prince Albert Wrestling 
Club and the Performing Arts Warehouse.
“Ranch Ehrlo hosts this event each year to give more exposure to groups that people have no idea exist in our community,” explained Shantelle Petersen, co-chair of the event. “If parents don’t know what they’re looking for they’re not going to find it on the Internet or in the phone book.”
“All of the hard work that we do as a small organizing committee is worth it in the end when more children get active and involved in our community,” said Kevin Mugford, co-chair and director of residential treatment at Ranch Ehrlo. “We believe involvement gives children positive experiences and encourages them to become great leaders and citizens of our city. While the goal of the day is to register youth for an activity, the bigger purpose and benefit is to create a positive future for the city of Prince Albert.”
With attendance and registration numbers strong as ever, organizers are already discussing plans to make next year’s YAF bigger and better.
Clubs and organizations in the Prince Albert region are encouraged to get involved in next year’s event. For information about becoming a vendor, contact 306-764-4511 or email Shantelle Petersen.
Stay tuned to the YAF Facebook page for details on YAF 2016.
