Government of Yukon awards funding to 15 groups for projects to support Yukon youth

Press Release

WHITEHORSE—Young Yukon rock climbers, skiers and artists are among the youth to benefit from nearly $68,000 awarded to 15 community groups through the Youth Investment Fund.

“Investing in our youth benefits communities, families and the territory. This fund is one way we are demonstrating our commitment to enhancing skill-building opportunities for Yukon’s young people,” Premier and Minister responsible for the Youth Directorate Darrell Pasloski said. “We commend those community groups who are stepping forward with unique activities that build athletic, leadership or artistic skills in our youth.”

The Youth Investment Fund provides short-term funding for community-driven initiatives that promote self-esteem, encourage positive lifestyle choices or create social or recreational opportunities. Eligible groups can apply for funding between $501 and $5000. Recipients are selected with input from two youth representatives.

“The Carcross Recreation Board greatly appreciates funding support from the Youth Investment Fund. Without that assistance, we could not provide a rock wall climbing program,” recreation director Bev James said. “Team building, unity, empathy and comradeship develop as youth and parents encourage each other to climb higher and faster. As they belay and instruct one another, rock climbing becomes a great way to help individuals and groups build character, trust, communication, problem-solving and leadership skills, which in turn creates stronger communities.”

The Youth Investment Fund provides funding twice a year to qualifying community groups. The application deadline for the next round of funding is April 1.

Learn more: Youth Investment Fund or call 867-667-5367

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See list of fall 2015 recipients and photo of the Carcross Recreation Board’s Rock on Fall 2015.

Contact:

Dan Macdonald
Cabinet Communications
867-393-6470
dan.macdonald@gov.yk.ca

Gord Kurzynski
Youth Directorate
867-667-8213
gord.kurzynski@gov.yk.ca

Janet Constable Rushant
Department of Justice
867-667-5492
janet.constable-rushant@gov.yk.ca

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