The City of Vancouver and its Youth Outreach Team presented the first annual City of Vancouver Youth Awards on May 6th, 2005 at a ceremony in the Vancouver Public Library's central branch. The event recognized the positive contributions of youth, adults, programs and organizations in promoting meaningful youth participation in the life of the city. The evening event featured musical and spoken word performances by various youth groups in Vancouver.

Earlier that day, a Youth Fair showcased community programs, organizations and City initiatives that illustrated some best practices of engaging youth meaningfully. We want to thank everyone who helped make this event a success.

Winners in 5 categories were chosen from almost 80 nominees. A total of 13 awards were given as recognition of recipients' good practices in youth engagement and for their outstanding contributions to the youth community.

Download the day's programme.

Categories and Award Recipients

Organization

The Youth Organization award recognizes youth organizations and / or youth-serving agencies that excel in meaningfully engaging youth in processes and activities by empowering young people and contributing to their individual development.

• Broadway Youth Resource Centre

Group / Program

The Group / Program award recognizes youth groups and / or programs that have made a positive contribution in their community through either their unique activities or their engaging group dynamics.

Out of the 21 nominations, 2 outstanding groups and 2 amazing programs were recognized.

Group

• MY Circle Action Team, Immigrant Services Society
• Windermere Student Environment Club, Windermere Secondary

Program

• Take-a-Hike, John Oliver Secondary
• kinex Youth Initiative, Self Help Resource Association of BC

Adult Ally

The Adult Ally award recognizes individuals aged 25 and up who, through their work and attitude, have supported youth development and involvement in their communities.

• Dave Dickson, Vancouver Police Department
• Bob Soper, John Oliver Secondary

Youth 19-24

The Youth 19-24 award recognizes individuals aged 19 to 24 who, through their involvement in their local community, have made a positive contribution to the city.

• Jorge Salazar

Youth 13-18

The Youth 13-18 award recognizes individuals aged 13 to 18 who, through their involvement in their local community, have made a positive contribution to the city and have shown strong commitment, leadership, and passion.

• Tami Smith, Britannia Youth Outreach Program
• Eric Feng, Gladstone Secondary
• Ealeen Wong, Eric Hamber Secondary
• Nathalie Lozano, Killarney Secondary
• Stephanie Carr, Gladstone Secondary