by Gemma Hunt
Flourishing Youth
One of the most promising aspects of Mississippi Mills is its vibrant youth community. Home to an excellent education system with extra-curricular opportunities in arts, science, and sports, the development of the region’s young people is already promising, but new endeavours have also increased the prospects of many individuals. The Mississippi Mills Youth Forum, whose most recent event took place in April this year, has generated some positive input for the community. The forum dealt with issues specific to the youth community drawing on ideas from young members for possible solutions. This included academic achievement, youth services, and increasing awareness about the youth forum itself which, while starting off with low attendance, ended its two-day run on a highly positive note leaving organizers and young people alike with ideas for change.
Later on in May, the Young Awards Gala took place, a fundraising effort to increase support for arts in the area. Their mission, which is to “foster dynamic arts initiatives in the schools of Mississippi Mills… [through] an annual gala dinner recognizing artistic and community volunteerism,” donates all its funds to arts initiatives in the region. This increases access to resources within the arts as well as expand opportunities for young people who wish to pursue their passion for visual art, writing, music, dance, theatre, and more, enriching an already impressive arts legacy within the community.
A Sporting Neighbourhood
With its flourishing arts community, the region also offers promise in its sports and athletics field. The Almonte and Stewart Community Centres as well as Pakenham Arena offer several programs for various ages in hockey, soccer, and tennis, giving youth the chance to not only get active, but meet others and pursue their own passions in sport or simply enjoy some recreational activity. There are also several other sports venues surrounding Mississippi Mills which offer the perfect chance to participate in sporting events. And, of course, there is the renowned Mississippi Little League – a great place for aspiring ball players to start.
And the community just keeps on growing. Mississippi Mills is becoming an attractive prospect for many, and young families are relocating here because of the potential. Commuting distance, friendly atmosphere, and a great opportunity for youth are a few of the big reasons why this peaceful yet lively community is such an appealing draw. And with more promising community projects coming into fruition like the Neighbourhood Tomato Community Garden Project, the Edible Tree Project, and the Augusta Street Park Revitalization Project, the region’s real estate is showing excellent prospects. Many families are considering the move to the area which offers affordable housing but also retains high value on homes, and as it continues to grow will increase the number of housing development projects as well as local improvements. It is an exciting time to be a part of Mississippi Mills which is growing in leaps and bounds, without losing its intimate, small-town feel which exudes tranquility.
And that is why it is such an ideal starting point for youth. With so many excellent resources to access from arts, science, and sports to more, as well as more clubs, venues and events opening their doors and the community itself taking an avid interest in youth input, the potential for improvement is increasing. Safe, friendly, and welcoming, Mississippi Mills’ diverse community is one in which all families – as well as youth – can feel welcome. And for those who find themselves growing restless, Ottawa is just a short commute away. No doubt about it, but Mississippi Mills is the region to keep track of for a while yet.
