The old Boucher School will become a youth cultural hub. (Susan McNeil/paNOW Staff)

By Susan McNeil

Youth services

Former Boucher School will become youth hub as council OK’s permit

Jun 25, 2025 | 3:24 PM

An old school building that has been empty for years will become a youth cultural hub and residence for some after Prince Albert city council approved a discretionary permit by the Indian Métis Friendship Centre of Prince Albert.

The Friendship Centre bought the building located at 717 MacArthur Drive last year and has now taken the next steps to fill the building with youth once again.

“We’re very excited to move forward. We’re very passionate and we want to make sure that we make this reality for them,” said Shane Bird, who appeared at Monday’s council meeting on behalf of the centre.

The Indigenous youth who will benefit most from the building have been helping figure out exactly what should be included, such as a recreation room and a gym.

“They wanted a place to call home. They wanted a classroom and… all of these things are coming from them,” said Bird.

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The youth have also been involved in cleaning up the stuff that is left behind by demolition work.

“They’ve put in many, many hours, you know, trying to clean up that building so it’s something they’re heavily involved in and they’re going to be part of some of the designing.”

Bird said the Friendship Centre has identified service gaps when it comes to youth and this building will help fill them.

That means land-based education, secondary educational support service, outreach services for youth, and help them get certification and training.

Up to 16 youth between 16 and 21 will be able to live right in the building but day programming will include those 12 to 15 as well.

Bird would also like to see professionals like dentists or doctors be willing to come on-site regularly so the youth don’t have to travel around the city trying to get to them.

He assured councillors that the neighbourhood will be involved, and he will be available to address any concerns.

“Our doors are always open, and my arms are always open. We want to be good neighbours,” he said.

They don’t plan to expand the building at all but will renovate the interior to comply with city zoning and land-use regulations.

The Friendship Centre will provide the staff to operate it and bring elders and mentors in as well.

As per the centre’s submission to council, the lower level will have a commercial kitchen and cafeteria, office space, the rec room, a recording studio, theatre room, fitness room and change rooms.

The main levels will have classrooms, reception and security and hold offices.

The second level will have two family suites and six suites each for males and females, a lounge, laundry and more office spaces.

The vote from council to approve the discretionary permit was unanimous.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com

On BlueSky: @susanmcneil.bsky.social