Young people and families who have engaged with CYCOS over the last two decades called into the Aberdare Road centre to join the celebration, share stories and reminisce over old photos and memorabilia.

CYCOS coordinator Will Doran said the milestone anniversary was a demonstration of the centre’s enormous commitment to local young people.

“Being a young person is an exciting, but also a challenging period of the life-cycle,” he said.

“We have come a long way in 20 years and through amazing partnership with other local youth agencies there are lots of quality programs and services providing support and fostering young people’s personal growth.

“We love the work that we do, we are truly grateful to have worked with so many vibrant, diverse young people.”

Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent said the council is proud to have offered this service to local young people and their families for 20 years.

“One of the biggest achievements as a community is the recognition of our Youth Week program at a state level,” Cr Pynsent said.

“This reflects the hard work of our young people, CYCOS team and other community groups who make this program so vibrant.”

CYCOS gives young people aged 12 to 20 opportunities that foster personal growth, with a friendly team of youth workers who provide a range of social, recreational and educational activities.

CYCOS is located at 49D Aberdare Road and is open Tuesday to Thursday from 3pm to 7pm. For more information, visit cessnock.nsw.gov.au/community/youth.