Vault Youth Zone is getting closer to completion with both the building and the team rapidly coming together over the past months.
The building has rapidly developed over the summer and the team has grown from six to 17, with more to join before the Youth Zone opens its doors later this year.
The building is being brought to life with colour now brightening the walls; a colour scheme and design led by renowned graphic designer Professor Ben Kelly, who oversaw projects such as Manchester’s Hacienda.
Vault’s full-time Youth Work youth work team is also now in place. Four youth work coordinators have taken up their roles and between them, they will manage and oversee the charity’s activities, support and inspiration for the young people of Preston.
Ellisa Oakley will be responsible for running Vault’s junior club (for eight to 19-olds), Victor Kasota will run the senior club (young people 13+) and Rebecca Donnarumma will be responsible for ensuring the Youth Zone is inclusive for all young people, as well as overseeing its holiday provision Ryan Whittaker is responsible for developing and managing youth work partnerships with other local youth organisations, including Vault’s ‘partnership’ night, which will see external providers deliver their services from the Youth Zone..
Rebecca said: “Our team is really coming together now, and I’m proud to be working with such an inspiring group of people.
“Between us we will deliver a wide range of activities so there will be so many different things for young people to experience and learn. Beyond the activities, our team will also provide support, guidance and mentoring. We can’t wait open our doors later this year and work with young people to unlock their potential.”
Ryan Whittaker, Partnerships Youth Work Coordinator, adds, “Although our team is coming together, we still have lots of positions to fill. In the coming months, Vault will be looking to complete the team by employing more than 50 additional members of staff covering everything from catering to youth work.”
Vault Youth Zone is due to welcome young people through its doors later this year in the heart of Preston, opposite the city’s iconic bus station. The state-of-the-art Youth Zone will offer young people from eight to 19 access to facilities and activities in sports, arts, performance, and enterprise. Staffed by skilled youth workers, this is a space for young people to find mentors, confidants and guides who will empower and champion them, building connections that will pave the way for brighter futures.
Image from L-R Victor Kasota, Rebecca Donnarumma, Ryan Whittaker, Ellisa Oakley.