ESTEVAN — The Estevan Public Youth Centre (EPYC) , Bonnie Chepil-Kvamme and Maisy Daoust, who bring a wealth of experience and fresh energy to their roles. Both educators have deep ties to the Estevan community, and they are focused on developing programming, fostering a welcoming environment, and meeting the evolving needs of local youth.
Chepil-Kvamme, who has worked as an educator for over 34 years, is a well-known figure in Estevan.
"Youth has pretty much been my career," she said. "So, it just made sense to carry on with EPYC."
Currently, she continues to substitute teach and coach cheerleading at the Estevan Comprehensive School (ECS), a team she has led for more than three decades.
Daoust, who began her teaching career at ECS, joined EPYC after a two-year stint in the classroom.
"I was looking for something still within the realm of teaching but just a little bit different," she explained.
When Chepil-Kvamme approached her about working together at the EPYC, the opportunity seemed like a natural fit.
"We both thought it was a good opportunity to do something good in the community, especially with the kids, and for me, it is a real connection," Daoust said. "[This job allows me] to connect, to bring the youth together, not just on an educational level, but also through leisure, in a way to provide them with a safe space."
"I moved here from Regina, and I spent 32 years in this community, and I just wanted to give back after I retired," Chepil-Kvamme added. "It just seemed like a good fit where we're helping out a community that has given so much to us, and [we also ensure local] youth have a place to go, a place to have something to eat, a place to have some joy."
EPYC aims to provide a safe haven for youth in Grades 7 through 12, offering a mix of leisure and learning opportunities.
"We are trying to give them some strategies for life, teach them on the sneak a little bit, and provide them with a place to have fun," Chepil-Kvamme noted.
January programs brought in by the two new co-executives include yoga sessions, cooking classes, a visit to the humane society, mental health discussions, as well as an evening of tobogganing and other activities of different kinds. The centre emphasizes inclusivity, with options for relaxation and free activities alongside structured programming.
Daoust highlighted their approach to engaging a diverse age range, from pre-high school to all ages of high school students.
"We want to be versatile. Every kid has different interests," she said.
"We aim for well-rounded programs that appeal to intellect, fun and well-being," Chepil-Kvamme added.
EPYC operates three nights a week, from Thursday through Saturday, but there is a demand for more availability, the leads note.
"Some of our regulars would be here every day if we could open that often," Chepil-Kvamme said.
Both leaders said they would love to expand hours and days of operation, contingent on increasing volunteer and staff support.
The centre currently sees an average of 20-25 regular attendees, with turnout fluctuating based on programming and weather. Outreach efforts include social media updates, school announcements and community events to raise awareness among both students and parents.
"It's about making the centre a recognized name in the community," Chepil-Kvamme emphasized.
The co-executives are grateful for the support they receive from local businesses and volunteers. The duo is also optimistic about EPYC's future, viewing it as a vital resource for Estevan's youth.
Chepil-Kvamme and Daoust said they are looking forward to exploring their roles. Their current contracts are three months long, so the time will show what happens after that, but they hope they'll be able to expand EPYC's reach and impact.
"It already is something wonderful," said Chepil-Kvamme. "But it can grow into so much more."
For more information about EPYC or to get involved, call Daoust at 306-421-7695 or Chepil-Kvamme at 306-421-9894 and follow EPYC on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat.
