Youth are being encouraged to volunteer in healthy-living related activities with the incentive of scholarship awards and the Premier’s Healthy Living Award, Premier Greg Selinger announced.
“By providing these incentives to students, we are really encouraging them to develop leadership skills, to set an example for younger students and to contribute to their schools and communities,” said Selinger. “Everybody benefits when we support and grow community spirit in young adults.”
The Youth Leadership Scholarship Program recognizes Grade 12 students who have volunteered in activities that promote healthy living in their communities and schools. Two hundred scholarships of $500 each are available for students graduating from Grade 12 during the 2010-11 school year. Scholarships must be used toward post-secondary studies at recognized post-secondary institutions by Sept. 30, 2012. This is the fifth year the scholarships have been offered and, to date, 669 scholarships have been awarded.
The premier noted students who apply for a Youth Leadership Scholarship can indicate on the application if they would also like to be considered for the Premier’s Healthy Living Award, a medal presented each year to a Manitoba youth who has shown leadership in healthy living.
“We want Manitobans to be the healthiest people in the country. The best time to ingrain the healthy living concept in people’s daily lives is during their youth; they can set an example for younger kids and may persuade the adults in their lives to be more active,” said Selinger. “I want to encourage students to submit an application for the chance to be recognized for all their hard work.”
Applications are due by March 25, 2011. Complete eligibility requirements and application forms for the scholarship program and award are available online.
