Passionate about improving the health of Kamloops children and families or ethnic and aboriginal groups? The City of Kamloops is providing an opportunity to get involved.

City staff is calling on residents to join the youth children and families advisory committee or the diversity advisory committee, offering in-depth knowledge of and influence over the social fabric of the community.

Each committee is looking for one citizen to serve on a voluntary basis for a two-year term.

“Members participate on this committee because they feel it is great for networking, sharing resources and they have the ability to learn more and brainstorm about what is happening in our community,” according to the City website.

Committees meet four times a year and advise the Kamloops Social Planning Council.

During meetings, members can expect to hear about initiatives from such social organizations as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Rotary, Raise a Reader and United Way.

They may also discuss solutions for such issues as signage for the Safe Harbour program — Safe Harbour-certified businesses and locations are prepared to offer safe refuge for anyone facing mistreatment or discrimination including visible minorities; people with disabilities; youth; seniors; the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or two-spirited community; and other diverse groups.

Those interested in applying to become a member of either committee can submit a brief cover letter and resume outlining background and interest by Jan. 7 to

Nicole Beauregard, active living co-ordinator City of Kamloops 250-828-3653 nbeauregard@kamloops.ca.