The Prairieaction Foundation is recognizing a northern youth mentor program, which instills leadership skills in young people.
Clearwater Project Venture Youth Mentors is an outdoor/experiential program for students in grades 6 to 8, with assistance from high-school students who graduate into mentors.
The program is guided by traditional values such as family, learning from nature, spiritual awareness, service to others, and respect.
“The kids feel like they can be themselves without pressure from other friends and family in the community. We’ve had a lot of community feedback about that,” said project coordinator Mandy Herman.
Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty presented the awards to five community groups.
“I am very impressed by these creative and inspiring projects, which address issues facing young people today,” said Mirasty. “I congratulate each of the recipients on this well-deserved recognition! I’m grateful to Prairieaction for celebrating achievement, and for encouraging youth to contribute and to create solutions.”
Youth develop a positive self-image, effective communication skills, community service ethic, improved decision-making and problem-solving skills, and personal resilience.
(Photo: Clearwater Project Venture. Courtesy of Mandy Herman Facebook.)