'I ❤️ SG' Conversation Series Topic #15- Engaging our Youth
- Erin Stevenson
- Sep 3
- 3 min read
Spruce Grove Councillor Erin Stevenson is proud to launch her campaign for a third term under the banner “I ❤️ SG”—a positive, community-focused message reflecting her deep commitment to the people, places, and possibilities that make Spruce Grove special.
Engaging Youth, Building Spruce Grove’s Future
Spruce Grove’s future depends on the voices of its youngest residents. By creating programs, spaces, and opportunities that reflect their needs, the City is helping young people feel included and empowered. As part of her “I 💙 SG” campaign for a third term, Councillor Erin Stevenson is highlighting the steps taken to engage youth—and the next opportunities on the horizon.
Watch the video:
LOVE: Opportunities for Young People
One of the most important steps has been making public transit more accessible for youth. The introduction of a Youth Local Service Monthly Pass provides affordable access, giving teens more independence and helping families with day-to-day transportation costs.
Another milestone has been the creation of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). This group provides Council with direct input from young people on a variety of municipal issues. “It’s vital to have their perspective at the table,” Stevenson says. “Our decisions affect their future, so they deserve a say in shaping it.”
The City has also expanded youth-focused programming, including:
Teen Takeover events
Winter and summer camps
Log cabin activities
Youth nights
These opportunities give teens safe, fun spaces to connect with peers, explore interests, and develop leadership skills. Stevenson notes that programming continues to evolve as the City works toward a larger vision for youth engagement and support.
IMPROVE: Keeping Youth Voices Strong
While the Youth Advisory Committee has been successful, Stevenson says it’s time to reflect on how it can grow.
“We’re now three years into YAC, and it’s important to ask: are we reaching a broad enough range of youth?” she says. “The committee members are eager to share more widely—with schools, with community groups, with their peers. The question is how to give them those tools and connections.”
Ensuring YAC members remain engaged and representative of the wider youth community will be critical as Spruce Grove continues to grow.
NEXT: Spaces Where Youth Can Connect
Looking ahead, Stevenson points to several new opportunities for youth engagement. The Japanese School, currently under renovation, will soon reopen as a centre for youth services. This new facility will provide a dedicated space for programming, resources, and support accessible to all young people in the city. The re-opening of Re-Imagined Central Park will also provide another safe, accessible spot for youth to gather.
And beyond formal facilities, Stevenson stresses the importance of informal spaces. “Youth seek out places to hang out—schoolyards, trails, even parking lots. We need to work with them to identify what kinds of spaces best meet their needs, and make sure they feel welcome and safe.”
For Stevenson, the message is clear: “Investing in youth means investing in the future of Spruce Grove. By listening to them, supporting them, and giving them spaces to belong, we’re building a city where they can grow and thrive.”
Share your thoughts with Erin and connect with her on social media and don't forget to use the hashtag #IHeartSG. Show Erin support in her re-election campaign by requesting a lawn sign (request form is at the bottom of every webpage).
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