March 1 is the deadline for the Dave Mikkelsen Youth Award. The award which is open each year to youth aged 12 to 17, provides a $1,000 grant in honour of former Chestermere Mayor Dave Mikkelsen.

Mikkelsen served as mayor for 12 years and was dedicated to supporting and uplifting youth voices in the community through Council recognitions. Each year since 2010 Mikkelsen and the current Mayor choose an idea that embodies an entrepreneurial spirit.

Chestermere Mayor Marshall Chalmers had this to say, “The Mikkelsen Award has been a great way for young people to get involved in their community over the past 10 years. It has contributed to many projects over the past 10 years, including a water fountain for the local skate park. Another example is a summer bike program and a community talent show amongst others.”

“These ideas might not have happened without the financial aspect of the Mikkelsen Award,” said Mayor Chalmers.

When asked about how the award benefits the community each year, Chestermere’s Mayor said, ”The award serves as a way to help get Chestermere youth to participate in their community. That’s what it’s all about. They help shape this community in so many different ways, and this award is an extra boost to bring their projects and ideas to life,” said Chalmers.

Award applicants must show that their idea will enhance and recognize the social, educational, spiritual or, recreation development of youth in the community. 

Applicants must be youth 12 to 17 in Chestermere or organizations that serve youth in Chestermere, who try to support or enhance the social, educational, spiritual, or recreational development of youth and/or the community in Chestermere.

Last year, Camp Chestermere was awarded the grant to help contribute towards the summer bike program.

The application can be found at www.chestermere.ca/youthaward.