Youth dedicates spare time to others

The Catherine McAuley Catholic Primary School student spends his spare time advocating for the Council’s Merge program while planning and organising free, fun events for young people.

“I really like helping out with free events because a lot of people can’t afford to do things that cost money,” Ryan said.

Orange Mayor John Davis presented Ryan with his award and a $50 gift voucher at a presentation in the Mayoral Suite on Tuesday.

“Congratulations to this young man who really goes above and beyond,” Cr Davis said.

“The Mayoral Youth of the Month award is designed to highlight good deeds and accomplishments of young people in the City of Orange who sometimes go unnoticed in our community.

“The award is aimed at recognising and celebrating young people who have and are currently making significant contributions, particularly in the areas of education, community work, sport, culture, the arts and the environment.”

Orange City Council’s Community Development Officer Lynda Bowtell said Ryan was chosen as Youth of the Month because of his dedication to spreading the word about programs and services available to his peers.

“He is a real advocate in helping his friends join programs like Merge, giving kids something constructive and helpful to do with their spare time,” she said.

“He has really taken it upon himself to get involved and go that extra step.”

The Merge program is free of charge and is aimed at a targeted group.

It gives identified young people the chance to do some fun, local activities like sports, ten pin bowling going to the movies or swimming lessons.

“I love going to Merge and I tell my friends about it,” he said.

“It makes me feel good and happy when my friends come because it’s for free and they give you food and you don’t have to pay.

“Some kids don’t get that opportunity.

“The best Merge [excursion] was at Burrendong Dam.”

Ryan is planning a free trivia night for primary school aged children in Orange because, he said, he wanted to give people something to do but also give them somewhere to eat good food and meet good people.