BAKER LAKE - Youth from Baker Lake participated in a workshop to learn about healthy lifestyle choices on July 24.

The event was organized by staff with the Department of Health and Social Services.

Around 50 youth between the ages of 12 and 18 gathered on Blueberry Hill outside of Baker Lake to participate in the event, according to public health nurse Carissa McEachern. The activities ran from 3 until 7 p.m.

The youth were taught about the importance of abstaining from alcohol, tobacco and drugs while participating in bannock preparation and other events.

"We wanted to make them aware of what is out there and if they are having problems, there are people they can talk to," McEachern said. "Organizers told the youth that they are the soul of a community and by teaching and educating them on traditional values and healthy life choices they will grow up to instill these values into future generations."

Theresa Aylward, a summer student with the RCMP helped out with the event. She said after group discussions about drugs and alcohol, the group ate and played games together.

"The goal was to try to get youth aware of the problems drugs and alcohol can bring to communities," she said.

Elders also participated by talking to youth and helping to cook bannock.

McEachern said it was the first event of its kind organized by the health department. She said prizes were donated by Arctic Fuels, Calm Air and Sports Nunavut.