United Way Winnipeg Youth » Take Action

Youth United Grant Criteria

admin — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 15:33:02 +0000

Members of the Youth United grant committee will carefully consider all applications from youth who request funding for their volunteer projects and events. The following are a list of application guidelines that will help our youth volunteers determine which projects are eligible for Youth United grants of up to $1000.

Eligible grant applications will include informal, community-based volunteer projects that are:

Taking place within the city of Winnipeg
Primarily organized, planned, and led by youth under the age of 25;
Contributing to positive social change in the following United Way focus areas:
- Education-helping children and youth achieve their potential
- Income-promoting financial stability and independence
- Health – improving neighbourhood health and positive well-being
Helping youth volunteers develop the skills they need to succeed;
Youth who are applying for a grant must be associated with a sponsoring organization (a school or non-profit community agency)
If you are applying for a repeat project (one that we have supported in the past), we’ll as you to demonstrate how you’ve learned from the experience

Non-eligible grant applications include but are not limited to:

Fundraising projects or any public event that will raise money for another organization, person or group.

During the 2011-2012 academic year, Youth United Grant applications will be accepted and reviewed based on the following schedule:

Applications received by:
October 14th, 2011
January 27th, 2012
May 11th, 2012

Will be reveiwed on:
October 19th (6-9 p.m.)
February 1st (6-9 p.m.)
May 16th (6-9 p.m.)

Location:
United Way, 580 Main Street
United Way, 580 Main Street
United Way, 580 Main Street

If funding is approved, we will disburse your funds through the school or community organization your group is connected with. We will ask you to keep us up to date on your progress, and once your project has been completed, you’ll be required to provide us with a report that includes detailed budget information and receipts. Any unused funds must be returned to the Youth Connections program.

Please make sure that you’re using our most current funding application form. To get a copy of our current application package, please call the Youth Relations Manager at 924-4265.

uConnect 2011

admin — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:44:13 +0000

2011 marks the 11th anniversary of the United Way Youth Connections Grant Program and the 10th year of our partnership with Shaw Communications Inc. Since the program began in 2000, 184 projects have been funded by Youth Connections (over $160,000)!

Between June 2010 and May 2011, 19 projects received a Youth Connections Grant.

On Thursday May 26th the Youth Connections volunteers hosted uConnect 2011, a recognition event to celebrate the contributions of this year’s project leaders. United Way would like to thank everyone involved in these projects for helping to create opportunities for a better life for everyone. We would also like to thank Shaw representative, Shelly Wiseman, for joining us in our celebration. Here’s the list of groups that have received grants since last June:

St. James Collegiate, Stevenson Homework Club
Dakota Collegiate, Operation Rudolf
Churchill High School – Women’s Health and Wellness Week
Ethiopian Community of Winnipeg, Ethio- Bee Soccer Club
Dakota Collegiate, Friends of Rachel
Tec Voc, Cecil Rhodes Holiday Party
Dakota Collegiate – Friends of Rachel
St. James Collegiate, Brooklands Literacy Project
Afghan Student Federation, Afghan Youth Formal Event
Kelvin High School, Camp Ooga Booga
Acadia Jr. High/Ft. Richmond Collegiate, Midwinter’s Night Dream
Maples Collegiate, “Judgmental Nature of High School”
Miles Macdonell Collegiate, Esperanza
J.H. Bruns Collegiate, Waste Container Project
Boys and Girls Club – Freight House, Centennial Family Fun Day: Helping Communities Grow
Elmwood High School, Elmwood Grove
FemRev Collective, 2nd Pan-Canadian Young Feminist Gathering
Winnipeg Somali Youth League, Great Somali Cultural Night
Lincoln Middle School, Picnic Tables Project

2011 Youth Day of Caring wrap-up

admin — Wed, 25 May 2011 21:14:08 +0000

More than 120 students from 13 local high schools showed their commitment and community pride by participating in United Way of Winnipeg’s 6th annual Youth Day of Caring on Friday, May 20, 2011.

Working alongside staff and volunteers from 6 neighbourhood agencies, students spent the day picking up litter, painting, gardening, cleaning and organizing – whatever they could to support non-profit organizations that support Winnipeggers.

The day began at 8:30am with a Welcome Breakfast at Broadway Neighbourhood Centre, followed by a group warm-up led by Yoga North’s Drew Perry. Students then went to work at non-profit agencies in the neighbourhood including: Broadway Neighbourhood Centre, West Broadway Youth Outreach, West Broadway Development Corp., West Broadway Biz, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the John Howard Society.

Volunteers were entertained by the amazing talent of Broadway Neighbourhood Centre’s Hip Hop Academy while they enjoyed a delicious pizza lunch courtesy of Santa Lucia. At the end of the day, after completing a few more projects, everyone returned to Broadway neighbourhood Centre for an apple toss prize give-away hosted by HOT 103 morning personality LTI.

Every year, hundreds of youth throughout Winnipeg make significant contributions to our community through United Way. As volunteers, participants and leaders, their energy and enthusiasm is shaping a brighter future for everyone as they set an example for all to follow. Thank you!

A special thank you to sponsors: Santa Lucia Pizza, High Road Commercial Cleaning Inc, and Yoga North for your support in making the making Youth Day of Caring a huge success!

6th annual Youth Day of Caring

admin — Tue, 10 May 2011 18:42:10 +0000

On Friday, May 20th, United Way will be hosting our 6th annual Youth Day of Caring. High school students in grades 10, 11 and 12 are invited to team up with United Way to complete hands on, meaningful projects in the West Broadway neighbourhood.

Students will be spending the day involved in activities including painting, yard work, gardening, interacting with community members, to name a few.

We are organizing this event because we know from past years that youth value volunteering their time and skills to give back to the community. It will also be a great way for students to meet their high school peers from across the city and experience the impact of what can be accomplished by working together.

For information on how to register, please call Leigh-Anne at 924-4265 or email lbowles@unitedwaywinnipeg.mb.ca

Youth Connections – Grant application reminder

admin — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:54:42 +0000

Shaw United Way Youth Connections is a funding program for youth-driven projects. If you have an idea that will make a difference in your community, we may be able to help cover some of the costs involved in getting your project started (up to $1000) .

Please call 924-4265 and we’ll send you a copy of the most current application package after we have had a chance to discuss your idea.

Just a reminder: Applications received after May 11th, 2011 will be reviewed in the fall of 2011.

Youth Connections: 2009-2010 Funded Projects

admin — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 18:06:19 +0000

St. James Collegiate (Stevenson Homework Club)

October 2009 (Amount granted: $950)

A group of St. James Collegiate students chose to spend one hour of their time every Wednesday afternoon helping students at Stevenson Elementary with their homework. At the same time, these High School mentors were able to develop positive relationships with the kids and strengthen their commitment to the community. Leaders of this group were responsible for providing snacks, organizing games and arranging volunteers. A strong connection between the high school and elementary students was developed.

Churchill High School (Women’s Health and Wellness Week)

December 2009 (Amount granted: $1000)

In the first week of December, girls at Churchill High School participated in a series of workshops designed to expose them to positive ideas and lifestyle choices. The project leaders felt it was necessary to have an awareness week for girls/women, focusing on the many issues they face. Each day of the week there were seminars and activities focused on the subjects of body image, relationships and diversity.

Dakota Collegiate (Operation Rudolf)

December 2009 (Amount granted: $1000)

Over 100 kindergarten-grade 3 students from Victor Mager, Lavalee and St. George schools attended a Christmas party hosted by the Dakota Collegiate Black and Gold Society. Guests were entertained with a variety of games, a visit from Santa, a sing-a-long, and enjoyed a pizza lunch. Seniors in the neighbourhood added to the community connection by knitting mitts for all of the kids.

Technical Vocational High School (Holiday Party)

December 2009 (Amount granted: $1000)

On December 18th, Tec Voc High School hosted their annual Christmas Party for the students of Weston elementary. The event was put on by students from the group Tec Voc Speaks, who planned and ran the activities and games. They also planned, prepared and served breakfast. Students on this project team were successful in showing the community how much they care and are able to contribute.

St. James Collegiate (Brooklands Literacy Program)

February 2010 (Amount granted: $875)

For the seventh consecutive year, students from St. James Collegiate made a visit to Brooklands elementary in support of “I Love to Read Month”. The student leaders were positive role models for the younger kids as they promoted reading and community involvement. The high school students prepared a pancake breakfast and then modeled reading in the classrooms. The morning was capped off with each student receiving a brand new book to take home.

Acadia Junior High and Fort Richmond Collegiate (Mid Winters Night Dream)

February 2010 (Amount granted $1000)

Students from Acadia Junior High and Fort Richmond Collegiate worked together to plan a Winter Family Fun Day. On February 27th over 1000 community members came together to enjoy activities such as skiing, tobogganing, turkey bowling, snow painting and sleigh rides. There was food, entertainment and a family photographer available to capture the memory. The day created a sense of belonging and pride in the community.

Victor Mager Boys & Girls Club (Multicultural Festival)

March 2010 (Amount granted: $1000)

On March 26th, Victor Mager Boys & Girls Club held their 14th annual Multicultural Festival. The festival has become a tradition in the community, bringing friends and family together to celebrate cultural diversity. The entertainment, food, and information displayed help to eliminate racism and discrimination. The young leaders involved find it rewarding to do something for the community and give back to the Boys and Girls Club.

Kelvin High School (Camp Ooga Booga)

March 2010 (Amount granted: $1000)

During spring break, Kelvin High School hosted a student-run camp for Mulvey and Pinkham elementary students. Camp Ooga Booga provided a positive learning experience for both the youth leaders and young participants. Throughout the week, kids were involved in activities including sports, baking, science experiments and crafts; all planned and organized by Kelvin students. All 47 children who attended were also provided breakfast, lunch and t-shirts for the duration of the camp.

Dakota Collegiate (Friends of Rachel)

March 2010 (Amount granted: $1000)

In September of 2009, students at Dakota Collegiate formed a Rachel’s Challenge group to promote a caring, understanding and empathetic environment within their school. By recognizing acts of kindness, the group worked throughout the school year to emphasize the fact that everyone has the right to be themselves and make a difference. A noticeable change in student unity was evident as a result.

FemRev (RebELLEs Consulta)

April 2009 (Amount granted: $1000)

FemRev is a collective led by women, networking with other young women in Winnipeg and across Canada, who are working towards a world where girls and women are valued and empowered. The Consulta will provide a forum for young women to come together to share and develop knowledge, ideas, visions and skills. The gathering is set to take place in the fall.

NEEDS Inc (Storytelling Event: A long Journey to New Beginnings)

April 2010 (Amount granted: $1000)

On May 15th, a group of volunteers from N.E.E.D.S Inc. hosted a storytelling event: “A Long Journey to New Beginnings”. This youth directed initiative explored themes of identity, culture, hope and celebration through a drama performance, fashion show, dance, food and art display. The event aimed to open minds and show people the strengths and talents of newcomer youth.

Lincoln Middle School (Picnic Tables Project)

April 2010 (Amount granted: $1000)

Grade eight students from Lincoln Middle School have turned the tables on the traditional wood shop project, and found a way to benefit the community at the same time. By the end of June, 15 United Way agency partners received a picnic table made by students who are demonstrating that young people do care about the community as a whole and hope other schools follow their example.

Voices MB (Random Oxygen)

May 2010 (Amount Granted: $1000)

The aim of this initiative is to offer youth under the care of the Province an opportunity to be involved in sport, recreation, and fitness opportunities including yoga, dance, basketball and hiking. These activities are intended to promote positive attitudes in respect to health and wellness and serve as a positive outlet for young people to discover their potential. Participants will sign up through the Voices program and participate in a different activity each month.

SOUCC Inc. (South Osborne Urban Food Cooperative)

May 2010 (Amount Granted: $1000)

During the summer, SOUCC organized several local food initiatives to get the members of the South Osborne Community thinking differently about how they interact with our food production and distribution system. Their food Cooperative is an opportunity for community members to make food purchases from local farmers, promoting ecological and socially responsible choices. The organization was founded by 2 Winnipeg youth who work to support local business and give back to the community.

Somali Cultural Centre of Manitoba Inc. (Somali Youth Camp)

June 2010 (Amount Granted: $1000)

A group of youth volunteers from the Somali Cultural Centre of Manitoba held a 2 day camp for Somali youth in Winnipeg. On day one, the volunteers talked to the participants about the reality of gangs, drugs and bullying, and then involved them in activities that promote a healthier and more positive lifestyle. On the second day, the group joined the Canada Day festivities at Assiniboine Park, celebrating what it means to be Canadian.

Miles Macdonnell (Home Improvement Project)

June 2010 (Amount Granted $1000)

Miles Mac students in the grade 12 Career Quest class renovated the exterior of a house in their local community. 24 students were involved in painting the house and planting gardens. With the support of their teachers, the group worked as a team to execute the plans. Each year this class provides an opportunity for its students to contribute to positive change in their community and set a good example for other youth.

Islamic Social Services Association (ISSA Summer Program)

July 2010 (Amount Granted $1000)

The Islamic Social Services Summer Program was a day camp for Muslim youth that took place during the summer. The participants met a few times every week at a variety of different places. Activities included fencing, camping, and visits to Fort Whyte, the Manitoba Museum, the Manitoba Children’s Museum, IMAX, and Tinkertown. The kids were enthusiastic and had a great time! The project provided the participants with an opportunity to take part in activities and create friendships with other kids. The youth who planned the program acquired many skills from working on such a large-scale project, and were also able to network with others.

Rossbrook House Energy Plus Program (Aerial Dance Experience)

July 2010 (Amount Granted $1000)

In hopes of proving the youth from Rossbrook House with a new opportunity, this project is aimed at encouraging youth to trust themselves, and develop creativity, strength and discipline. With a volunteer dance instructor, youth will participate in a cross cultural experience unavailable anywhere else in Winnipeg. Sessions are scheduled to begin in the fall.

Lincoln Middle School – Picnic Tables Project

admin — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:59:57 +0000

Grade eight students from Lincoln Middle School have turned the tables on the traditional wood shop project, and found a way to benefit the community at the same time.
“Over the years, we noticed dozens of clocks and assorted projects left in the shop at the end of June,” says shops teacher Neil Penner. “A lot of the older grade eight students just weren’t interested in taking them home. We realized we could be making different choices and directing our end-products towards the community. United Way was a natural partner.”
Since September, Penner’s grade eight wood shop class has been constructing picnic tables for distribution to 15 participating United Way agency partners. All along the way students have been involved in choosing where the tables go and have learned about each agency receiving one.
Penner says the students still gain the practical experience of constructing a wood project and learn more about the community and agencies that support its residents.
To date, nine United Way agency partners have received their tables including The Laurel Centre, The Family Centre (Westgrove), Ndinawe, Eyaa-Keen Centre, Marymound, North Point Douglas Women’s Centre, RaY, Andrews Street Family Centre, and Knowles Centre.
Six more—Villa Rosa, Wolseley Family Place, SEED, Maples Youth Activity Centre, Spence Neighbourhood Association, and Pregnancy and Family Support Service—will receive tables by the end of June.
The students are hoping to demonstrate that young people do care about the community as a whole and hope other schools follow their example.
Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the school’s decision to adapt the wood shop into a community awareness project.
“These students brought us more than a picnic table,” says Suhad Bisharat, Executive Director of The Laurel Centre. “They brought us the sun!”

Watch the YouTube video here

“A Long Journey to New Beginnings” – Storytelling Event

admin — Fri, 14 May 2010 15:07:57 +0000

Shaw United Way Youth Connections has recently provided a grant to N.E.E.D.S Inc. in support of their storytelling event: “A Long Journey to New Beginnings”. This is a youth directed initiative that explores themes of identity, culture, hope and celebration through a drama performance, fashion show, dance, food and art display.

Click on the poster to RSVP on Facebook

Shaw United Way Youth Connections Grant Program works to foster youth involvement and initiative, community spirit and positive relationships through volunteerism. The program is designed to motivate and encourage youth to become involved in their schools and communities as it provides funds to support youth-driven volunteer projects that offer creative youth-initiated solutions to community issues.

Celebrating Youth Connections Project Leaders

admin — Tue, 11 May 2010 18:27:13 +0000

2010 marks the 10th anniversary of the Shaw United Way Youth Connections Grant Program. Since 2000, we have proudly granted over $133,000 to 157 projects.

Between June 2009 and May 2010, 17 more projects have received a Youth Connections Grant. United Way would like to thank everyone involved in these projects for helping to create opportunities for a better life for everyone.

Tomorrow night, the Youth Connections Council will host uConnect 2010, a recognition event to celebrate the contributions of this year’s project leaders. Here’s the list of groups that have received grants since last June:

MB Somali Students Association – Graduation ceremony
ISSA – Summer program
Churchill High School – Women’s Health and Wellness Week
Dakota Collegiate – Operation Rudolf
TecVoc High School – Holiday party
St. James Collegiate – Stevenson Homework Club
Dakota Collegiate – Friends of Rachel
South Osborne Urban Community Co-op – Urban Food Cooperative
St. James Collegiate – Brooklands Literacy project
Friends of Fort Richmond – Mid-Winter’s Night Dream
Victor Mager Boys & Girls Club – Multicultural Festival
Kelvin High School – Camp Ooga Booga
Lincoln Middle School – Picnic Tables project
N.E.E.D.S Centre – Storytelling Event
Voices – Random Oxygen
Miles Macdonell Collegiate – Home Improvement project
FemRev – RebELLEs Consulta

Youth Day of Caring – May 21st

admin — Mon, 03 May 2010 21:24:57 +0000

The 5th annual Youth Day of Caring will be taking place on Friday May 21st.

Students in grades 10, 11 and 12 are invited to team up with United Way to complete hands on, meaningful projects in the William Whyte neighbourhood. Registration packages have been sent to Winnipeg High Schools, please contact the Youth Relations Manager at United Way of Winnipeg 477-5360 ext. 272 if you’d like more information.