Youth grants extended across the Okanagan

Photo: Contributed

OneWorld Youth Crew artist painting a mural to honour Mary Greyeyes, Canada's first Indigenous Military officer, on the exterior wall of the Legion in Ok Falls.

Youth Initiative Grants for youth-led projects are being extended into the North and South Okanagan this year.

Four organizations, the Central Okanagan Foundation, Community Foundation North Okanagan, the Community Foundation South Okanagan Similkameen and GenNext, have come together this year to help empower youth and make positive differences across the Okanagan.

The programs will be led by the Central Okanagan Foundation and United Way BC – Southern Interior.

"We are proud to announce that, thanks to the success of these youth-led projects, this collaborative funding partnership has just expanded to include Community Foundation North Okanagan and Community Foundation South Okanagan / Similkameen to reach all Okanagan communities," states a news release from the groups.

The program is being offered for the fourth year and interested youth-led groups are encouraged to apply for a grant of up to $2,000.

Last year, youth who were awarded grants led some inspirational projects that sparked thoughtful conversation and community engagement. The OneWorld Youth Crew (OWYC) heard that the Okanagan Falls Legion Branch 227 issued a call to local artists requesting a mural of a female soldier. OWYC started researching and discovered Mary Greyeyes – the first Indigenous military officer. They also learned that she was a champion for diversity during her time of service.

“With the project goal of increasing inclusion and diversity through art, we believe that connecting with the Legion and influencing their choice to include a woman Indigenous soldier helps to strengthen the relationship between veterans, our local band and SOICS, an immigrant-serving settlement office.” Reports OWYC in their project evaluation.

The Youth Initiative Grants offer youth up to the age of 25 the chance to develop and run projects to benefit both youth and the whole community.

All applicants must partner with a registered charity, First Nation organization, school, or church in order to meet the eligibility criteria.