The Ranch Ehrlo Youth Activity Fair (YAF) has created a buzz and activity of its own, prompting the City of Prince Albert to declare Sept. 13, 2014 as Youth Activity Day.

Plans are well underway for the third annual YAF and the City of Prince Albert has done its part to support the goal of getting youth healthy and active.

“Prince Albert is fortunate to have a wide selection of youth activities in our city,” said Prince Albert Mayor Greg Dionne. “Youth are an important resource. These activities, which are largely run on volunteer time, support the growth and development of our young people and in many cases provide them with the skills necessary to be our future leaders."

YAF began in 2012 as an initiative to involve youth in the community through sport, recreation, and organized club activities. YAF is not a fundraiser, but rather an effort to increase the community participation of youth, so they may, in turn, become contributing members of society.

“It is very exciting to hear that our YAF has developed into a city-wide event,” said Rachelle Lavoie-Stumpf, caseworker at Ranch Ehrlo Society and co-coordinator for the YAF. “We are spreading the message that active youth are healthy youth, who help to create healthy communities.”

Preparations for the 2014 YAF began in March with a committee of six working to make this year’s event bigger and better than ever before.

Rachelle said committee members have gone above and beyond, acting as champions of the agency.

“The committee has attended city hall and city transportation department meetings; they have contacted vendors and explored venues; and they have been busy meeting with educators and community organizations for their prospective support and involvement.”

Organizers hope to make the 2014 YAF a unique and independent initiative, explained Rachelle. In these efforts, the activity fair will be held on the weekend, for the first time, in attempt to attract a larger demographic while relying less on the school division.

“Several community organizations, clubs, and associations in and around the city of Prince Albert have been approached for support and sponsorship,” said Rachelle. “All of these partners have the common goal of getting youth healthy and active.”

This year’s vendors will include retail stores, non-profit community agencies, sports clubs, arts and drama associations, and more. Financial assistance providers will also be available to offer information to families unable to afford the expense of extra-curricular activities.

“We hope to see this event continue to grow each year, while encouraging youth to live healthy, positive, and active lifestyles,” said Rachelle.

"I  encourage all residents from Prince Albert and area to attend the activity fair and find out more about the programs and activities that are available right here in Prince Albert," said Mayor Dionne.

The third annual YAF will be held at the Alfred Jenkins Field House (Prince Albert) on Sept.13^th from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

For YAF sponsorship or vendor opportunities please contact Shantelle Petersen or visit facebook.com/PAYouthActivityFair.