Feast on salmon and help youth

The popular salmon dinner benefit for the South Whidbey Youth Center is set this year for Jan. 17, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of Langley United Methodist Church.

Hosted by Dave and Karen Anderson, the festive meal will feature salmon, baked potato, coleslaw, garlic bread, beverage and dessert. Cost at the door is $10 for adults and $5 for children. For more information call Mary Vergin, 221-5628.

Proceeds from the annual salmon dinner will support the Youth Center’s many programs that help young people make healthy life choices and avoid substance use and abuse.

Now in its 12th year of operation, the SWYC serves hundreds of local youths in seventh through 12th grade. Its Drop-Inn program meets each weekday after school in the basement of Langley United Methodist Church, providing a safe place for teens to gather and have a healthy snack. A computer lab is available to participants, along with instruction in artistic projects. Currently about 50 youths a day attend the program, which also includes special activities on half days of school.

Another Youth Center program is Jobline, which helps young people find employment in the community. In 2002, more than 100 youth-job matches were found.

The Tutor/Mentor program at Langley Middle School, Langley Christian School and South Whidbey High School supports students by providing volunteer tutors and mentors to work with them. Currently 59 youths have been matched with adults through the program.

For more information about its programs call the Youth Center at 221-3230.