Teens from RYPAC (Redmond Youth Partnership Advisory Committee) and adult staff members from City of Redmond Parks and Recreation threw an after-school pumpkin-carving party for selected students from Redmond Elementary at the Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center on Oct. 30.

The annual tradition started in 2004 with teen programs director Ken Wong and RYPAC members entertaining youngsters who might not have a supervised Halloween activity at home, explained Jackie Bui, a family support counselor at Youth Eastside Services (YES).

“The counselor at Redmond El selects children who may be low-income or coming from another culture, to let them experience fun, holiday traditions,” said Bui. “We introduce them to both American culture and older kids who are leaders. Some of the RYPAC kids were once new at Redmond El and now can be role models. The counselor sends information home and lets parents know that their (elementary) kids will have a safe activity after school. Most live nearby and we walk them home with a pumpkin.”

At last week’s event, elementary students dug into the messy, gooey, pumpkins with obvious delight. Bui said some had never carved a pumpkin before. They also bowled with pumpkins, made masks and decorated cookies and Trick-or-Treat bags.

RYPAC was formed to give junior high and high school students opportunities in three main areas of interest: recreation, youth voice and service. With adults as mentors, RYPAC members have helped to identify and implement activities and programs that are wanted and needed by local youth. Participants can also earn community service hours for organizations such as National Honor Society.

To get involved in RYPAC, call (425) 556-2358 or e-mail rypac@redmond.gov.