Nominate Ponoka’s youth Leaders of Tomorrow

Ever see Ponoka youths out in the community volunteering their time and doing their part to help someone out? Ever wonder how you could recognize them for their efforts? The 2012 Leaders of Tomorrow might just be the ticket.

Chairperson Leanne Brusegard said this year the 13-member committee has representation from almost all the schools, including two students who were nominated in 2010.

“We’re so lucky to have teachers who are also onboard,” she explained.

For the students, Miranda Brookwell, responsible for promoting the campaign in the community, was on the committee last year.

“I like being able to recognize people, especially young kids,” said Brookwell.

The other student, Katrina Pylypow, who will help review nominations after the March deadline, appreciated being recognized and looks forward to giving credit to youths this year.

“I like the whole idea of it. It gives kids something to work for,” Pylypow stated.

Students from kindergarten to Grade 12 are eligible and the criteria for nominations are:

• Exhibits dedication and excellence in any field of volunteer/leadership.

• Inspires others to volunteer.

• Positive role model.

Nomination deadline is March 16 and they can be mailed or dropped off at the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre. Brusegard said forms will be sent to anonymous judges who live out of town.

“We have judges, of course, not from the community, because we don’t want them to know the youth, we want them to be able to read through all the nomination package and get to know them that way. And it’s worked fabulous,” emphasized Brusegard.

Teachers play a key role in nominations — which have a positive effect on students’ portfolios — and the committee works closely with all the schools in the area.

“I think it’s so important to recognize them, and thank them, because it makes our community a better place. It really does, and we’ve got a lot of really great kids here,” explained Brusegard.

The awards celebration will be held at St. Augustine Catholic School April 15 and nominees will be able to bring a guest to a 4-H Leadership Workshop evening March 4 and 5.

Brusegard has been with the committee for the last four years and chair for the last two and is “thrilled to have the youth” involved on the committee.

Anybody can nominate youths who go above and beyond to help out and can include taking time in their school, community, athletic and fine arts programs.

Nomination forms available at the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre, the Centennial Centre and the town office.