SASKATCHEWAN COMMUNITIES BENEFIT FROM YOUTH PROJECT AWARDS

Volunteer efforts by young people are creating long-lasting benefits for communities across the province by providing everything from enhanced immigration services to education about sustainability.

No fewer than 21 projects undertaken under the auspices of the Saskatchewan Youth Project Awards have now been completed and the participants are ready to celebrate the many positive outcomes that have been produced.

“We entrusted Saskatchewan youth to make a difference in their communities in a way that was meaningful to them and their peers,” Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel said.  “The 21 completed projects demonstrate the value of the Awards program.  Everyone benefits when young people are challenged to lead.  We all end up being winners.”

The Saskatchewan Youth Project Awards were launched last summer as part of a legacy program from Saskatchewan Centennial 2005.  Young people could receive funding from $500 to $5,000 to complete projects supported by their local community.  Those who received funding were selected by a jury of peers in a province-wide competition.  The program was designed by the Provincial Youth Advisory Committee. 

“We were pleased to be asked to fill such an important role,” Provincial Youth Advisory Committee co-chair Cassie Nesbitt said.  “Government wants to make this province even better for young people and they listened to what youth thought was important.”

The projects have resulted in some unique and positive outcomes for Saskatchewan communities.  In Saskatoon, the ConnectED project has strengthened the self-esteem of recent immigrant women and helped them integrate with the community.  At Fond du Lac First Nation, the Athabasca Sand Dunes Project provided an ecological education and First Nation culture camp to local youth.

“This was a great opportunity to feel like I was truly a part of my community,” visionary youth behind the Montmartre Beach Volleyball Courts project Gregory Shiplack said.  “Once we started the project, local community groups, businesses, the school and individual volunteers pitched in to help.  Their support was very important and I saw how Saskatchewan really does offer opportunities you can’t find anywhere else.”

The Saskatchewan Youth Project Awards are now accepting applications from other young people interested in pursuing community projects.  Young leaders are invited to fill out an application and describe their project concept by March 15, 2007.  Forms and details can be found at www.saskyouth.net.

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For more information, contact:

Linda Paidel
Culture, Youth and Recreation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2047
Email: lpaidel@cyr.gov.sk.ca