There are several successful youth leadership programs offered in the province that provide young people with the chance to build character and citizenship in a spirit of community service.

The Provincial Government is pleased to support the work of Girl Guides and Scouts Canada, the Duke of Edinburgh�s Award, Allied Youth and the Youth Parliament with grants totalling $160,000 in 2007-08.

"This government supports children and youth who strive to reach their full potential while exploring personal leadership," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment. "It is through the activities of Girl Guides and Scouts Canada, Duke of Edinburgh, Allied Youth and the Youth Parliament that the rights and responsibilities of citizenship are understood, Canadian democratic values are embraced and a sense of service to others is nurtured."

The Girl Guides were provided with $34,800, while Scouts Canada received $31,286. These programs focus on individual personal development, and the benefits of making a positive contribution in the community.

The Duke of Edinburgh�s Award program received a grant of $45,000 to help it continue to challenge youth in setting goals for achievement through a variety of community-based activities and personal interests.

Allied Youth helps young people learn how to make their own decisions, to be leaders, and to understand youth issues. This year, the organization received a grant of $40,000.

The Youth Parliament is a unique opportunity for young people to develop an understanding of the representative nature of the democratic process through their participation in organized debates on current affairs and matters of public interest. Youth Parliament received a grant of $9,000.

"I am pleased to acknowledge that the hard work and commitment shown by these groups, and other youth-serving organizations in our province, results in a variety of youth programming options for the benefit of our young people and communities," said Minister Skinner.

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Media contact:
Ed Moriarity
Director of Communications
Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment
709-729-4062, 728-9623
edmoriarity@gov.nl.ca

2007 11 01                                                    10:15 a.m.