The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is doing its part to celebrate local young people who are making a difference in the community.
Applications are being accepted for the Sarnia-Lambton Celebration of Youth Awards.
Sarnia YMCA Jerry McCaw Family Centre General Manager Paul Skuza said they're handing out 20 awards, worth $1,000 each.
"We have different categories that students 17 to 20 years old can apply for," said Skuza. "Everything from volunteerism to arts and culture, community stewardship and apprenticeships. There are lots of different categories, and we're just excited to keep this tradition going."
Skuza said the awards are a decades-long tradition.
"This is a really great event that's been going on since 1998," he said. "For nearly 30 years it's been making an impact on youth in our area. We're really proud of this event and happy we can keep doing it every year."
Skuza said the money can be used toward things like books or anything else they may require.
Those interested can send in an application until March 24.
"We purposefully put it after March Break, so they have time to work on it," said Skuza. "They'll write a short essay or they can also do a video essay as well. It'll take them a little bit of time but once they do that they'll be invited in for an interview in April. We interview everyone that applies and then we choose our 20."
More information can be found on the YMCA's website.
