New Beginnings In Thunder Bay

Last spring marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for New Hope Youth Centre. After years of praying, planning, and searching for the right leadership, the Centre has welcomed Allyson Paul as its new full-time Youth Centre Director. Originally from St. Mary’s First Nation in New Brunswick, Allyson recently completed an Indigenous leadership and discipleship program before sensing a call to serve youth in Thunder Bay. She officially began her role in May and has already been meeting with board members, volunteers, and community leaders as she settles into the work.

The Youth Centre exists to provide a safe, welcoming place where young people can gather, build relationships, and find consistent support from caring adults. For many youth, this kind of community can make a significant difference. Reflecting on her own experience growing up, Allyson shared how important it was to have a safe place outside of home where she felt cared for and valued. She hopes the Centre will continue to be that kind of place for young people in Thunder Bay.

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One of the immediate priorities is strengthening volunteer involvement and creating greater consistency in programming. The vision is simple but powerful: as long as the Centre remains open, young people can depend on it being there. Plans are already underway to expand activities, rebuild programs such as art nights and community events, and strengthen connections with local schools so that more youth can discover the Centre and become part of its community.

What makes New Hope unique is its relational approach. The focus is not on programs alone, but on creating a space where trust can grow over time. Youth are welcomed as they are, encouraged through friendships and mentorship, and invited into healthy community. As Allyson has already discovered, meaningful conversations often emerge naturally when young people experience consistency, care, and acceptance. One recent example came when a youth asked to read from Allyson’s Bible, opening the door to deeper questions and discussion.

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For Hope Story, this partnership has been years in the making. The organization first connected with New Hope before COVID and has long believed in the importance of supporting Indigenous-led ministry and youth development within Canada.

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Prayer

•      Pray for Allyson as she settles into leadership, builds relationships with youth, volunteers, schools, and community partners, and develops a long-term vision for the Centre.

•       Pray for increased volunteer involvement so that the Youth Centre can operate consistently and continue expanding opportunities for young people.  

•       Pray for the youth who walk through the Centre’s doors, that they would find safety, encouragement, healthy relationships, and hope for their future.