On September 22nd, Choices for Youth (CFY) held its annual Youth Celebration; however, due to the global pandemic, the event was held virtually. CFY’s Youth Celebration recognizes accomplishments of young people who participate in programs offered across the organization. The event features messages from CFY staff, young people, and community partners. This virtual celebration was shared with community via online platforms, such as YouTube and Social Media.
While this year’s Youth Celebration was held virtually rather than a large gathering, each program was able to celebrate in a way that was meaningful to them. A meal for youth and staff, with a special treat from Ziggy Peelgood’s provided. Staff and youth were able to snack on their Ziggy’s meal while they watched the Youth Celebration and together.
The celebration featured four different awards, with some having multiple winners:
The STEPPING STONE AWARD is to acknowledge the special achievements of young people who have gone above and beyond and shown particular initiative and progress in the areas of education or employment. This year’s Stepping Stone Awards were given to Josh, Trevor and Robert.
The RIVER AWARD is to acknowledge the personal growth of young people who have gone above and beyond and shown progress in the areas of perseverance and self-awareness. This year’s River Awards were given to Naomi, Akira, Jeff and Nikki.
The MICHAEL WALSH AWARD is awarded to a young person who demonstrates good natured resiliency in dealing with challenges in his/her life. This year’s Michael Walsh Award recipient was Darren.
The RAYMOND FURLONG AWARD acknowledges regular and consistent attendance and a commitment to learning a high school, post-secondary program or other program of a young person served by Choices for Youth. This year the award went to Nikita.
We would like to extend a congratulations to all the winners, including all of those who were not showcased in the Youth Celebration video in honor of their request to not have their information shared.
Big thanks to everyone who helped make this virtual celebration come together – and there were many, many folks who played a role! Thanks to those who participated in the celebration, CFY staff and Board of Directors, our partners and community for supporting CFY programs and services, the youth who shared their stories, and the staff who sat on all the different committees for behind the scene logistics.
Of course, we’d like to extend a hearty congratulations to all the amazing youth who participate in CFY programs and services. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in the next year!
Watch the video here.
Choices for Youth strives to provide youth and young families with programming and services that meet their present and long-term needs. Our work is informed by the lived experience and expertise of young people, feedback from program participants, input from community partners, and guidance from national programming and research. If you'd like to learn more about CFY programs and how they impact youth, or if you or someone you know would like to access services provided by CFY, please visit our website.