Edenvale’s Crime Prevention Youth Desk relaunches with new mission

After several years of inactivity, Edenvale’s Crime Prevention Youth Desk has been relaunched.

Led by chairperson and Edenvale CPF member Peter Rex, the Youth Desk exists to create a safer and kinder environment for the youth.

It was officially relaunched at the start of February.

Although the Youth Desk is in the process of vetting additional members and establishing a committee, Peter (19) is joined by executive committee member Fiona Pickett and recovery and wellness coach Imraan Shaik.

With extensive knowledge, the duo will help guide the Youth Desk.

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Fiona said the establishment of the Youth Desk will help young community members feel like they belong, adding value and have support.

Peter, who is now in his second year of being a CPF member, explained that after his brothers introduced him to community policing he was drawn to it.

“I can’t explain what prompted me to join the CPF, it’s something special which calls to you. I have a passion for helping the community,” he said.

Seeing Peter’s passion for helping others, the Edenvale CPF’s executive committee introduced him to the Youth Desk’s portfolio.

“I’ve wanted to be more involved so after being introduced to the portfolio, I read up on it and saw the potential it has and the differences which can be made through it. It is a big responsibility that I have taken on but I know I can do it.”

Through community collaboration and partnerships, the Youth Desk hopes to create an environment where the youth can grow free from the dangers of crime, bullying and substance abuse.

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Its key focus areas include:

• Youth crime prevention by supporting young people at risk of crime through guidance and community programmes.
• Conducting educational and awareness programmes by teaching the youth the value of kindness, respect and understanding while equipping them with the skills to make healthy decisions.
• Support at-risk youth by offering mentorship and resources to help the youth lead fulfilling lives.
• Community involvement and collaboration by building strong relationships with businesses, schools and organisations and creating a support network.
• Providing resources to children’s homes and schools by ensuring all children have the essentials they need to feel loved, cared for and secure.

To bring comfort and happiness to children facing hardships, the Youth Desk has kicked off a Comfort Teddy Bear drive.

“I’ve always been interested in doing things for people in need, so being able to run an initiative and doing good for children feels amazing,” said Peter.

Peter said by working in partnership with Roses Stitch 4 Stitch (pty) Ltd, the Youth Desk hopes to create unique teddy bears for children in need.

He called on the community to help make a difference by donating fabric, stuffing, embroidery cotton and embroidery backing.

Alternatively, community members can donate teddy bears and plush toys.

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“I hope to expand the project so that it becomes self-sustaining. It depends on community involvement.”

Speaking about his hopes for the Youth Desk, Peter said he hopes that it becomes a central pillar for the Edenvale community.

For more information email Peter at cpyd@edenvalecpf.co.za or the ECPF at info@edenvalecpf.co.za