Supporting Youth

 

As one of the youngest Richmond City Council candidates, Vincent is well placed to bridge generations. He combines close attention to the issues facing youth with extensive professional and governance experience, all dedicated to serving his community.

 

Richmond raised a generation of young people who loved this city, then made it difficult for them to stay. This failure of planning and priority is the source of youth’s greatest challenges from housing, jobs, to civic engagement. That is why Vincent will make youth a focus of his work on Council and he is committed to three important starting points.

 

1. Elevate youth voices. Vincent wants to establish a Youth Council at every community centre in Richmond. Having participated in this kind of program in his teens, he understands the value of neighbourhood youth representation that does not just advise, but takes leadership roles in the community.

 

2. Build job experience. Youth unemployment is high. With the economy in rough shape, the City can help youth lay a foundation to build their careers. Vincent is committed to exploring entry-level youth and student jobs in the municipal public sector, designed to build skills and support professional development.

 

3. Make housing attainable. Vincent is aware of the housing difficulties youth face. While the average prices of renting and owning have come down, both are still unattainable for many, especially those without parental financial support or seeking more independence. Youth should not have to choose between rent and food. So Vincent is committed to exploring public housing to help youth get the start they need.