Inuvik (Dec 03/04) - As much-needed repairs to the Inuvik Youth Centre continued this week, two new board members joined the youth society.

Dennis Allen was one of the founding members of the Inuvik Youth Centre Society -- so he's not completely new to the organization.

Recent addition to the Inuvik Youth Centre staff is youth worker Jolene Russell, pictured here with regular attendee Bernie Bernhardt. - Jason Unrau/NNSL photo

His appearance at the Mackenzie Road centre for some impromptu guitar playing last week brought smiles to many of the kids' faces.

Also joining the board is Inuvialuit Development Corporation assistant comptroller Dan Hemming.

Society chair Martin Landry says he also hopes to get Grant Sullivan from the Gwich'in Tribal Council on board. More good news for the kids is the return of youth worker Trevor Rogers, back working at the centre part-time.

Earlier in the year, Rogers quit his position, citing irreconcilable differences with the board.

However, the kids expressed their desire to have him back, most notably in a Drum streetbeat when several responded "bring Trevor back" after being asked "What should be done to improve the youth centre?"

There has also been some talk of moving the youth centre from its location across the street from the community corporations building. One idea is to put the centre closer to the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex, however this plan remains in the discussion phase.

And finally, the youth society board bids a fond farewell to outgoing chair Barb Armstrong.

"She will be greatly missed for her tireless work," said Landry, Armstrong's replacement. "Barb truly cared and did a grand job."

The youth centre continues to seek new board members, he added.