Masquerade ball calls for helpers

A youth-run masquerade ball coming soon to Matamata.

The fire- and ice-themed ball will be open to young people from the Matamata-Piako district.

Jono Bay, youth co-ordinator for Starfish Social Services, has been working with a team of youth leaders for the past couple of months to organise the ball.

“We want the community to be involved in planning things for youth,” he said

A meeting will be held for anyone in the community who wants to help with the ball.

Youth leaders will run the meeting and most of the arrangements will be up to them.

Mr Bay believes giving the kids the majority of the responsibility will give them the opportunity to “step up” and use their skills.

“Adults are there to support the kids,” he said.

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The ball will get $5000 funding as part of the Matamata-Piako District Council Youth Action Plan.

The council received $35,000 from the Ministry of Youth Development after a series of consultations with youth in the district.

Morrinsville and Te Aroha will also receive $5000 to organise an event in their town.

The events are aimed at bringing together the young people of the district in a safe and fun environment.

Mr Bay said it would be great to see the different towns in the Matamata- Piako district doing initiatives like this together.

“It’s bringing the community together and providing something for the kids,” he said.

The ball meeting is at 4pm at Starfish Social Services, 56 Firth St, Thursday, August 16.

The planning committee invites anyone wanting to help to join them.