The Federation’s Youth Education Bursary and Holiday Giving
“There was a point in life where I thought I could never succeed or amount to anything. Receiving this award really gives me a sense of purpose in my career and in life. It gives me confidence going forward in my post-secondary education and provides me with hope. Thank you so much for all you have done for me, and other people like me that want to make a change.” – 2015 Bursary Recipient
Since 2009, The Federation’s Youth Education Bursary has been supporting young people who want to pursue a career in the human social services.
As many of you know, the bursary was one of the things that inspired me most when I first joined The Federation. That’s because it’s about more than just a dollar amount. It was—and still is—one of the ways this federation sees young people as far more than simply a kid from government care. It imagines their potential and helps them reach it.
It’s also an intentional and heartfelt way of welcoming the next generation of caregivers and practitioners into our sector. It empowers those who have been recipients of services and support to do the same for others.
Each year, we hear from multiple applicants about how they want to use their experiences in care to be of service to others and to their communities. Many applicants note the impact of the support they received and, in turn, want to be that pillar of support for someone else. Others reflect on their negative experiences in care and use them as inspiration for wanting to change the system.
The holiday season is quickly approaching, and I know it’s time for your own holiday giving campaigns. I also know many of you coordinate your own activities and programs that help vulnerable families and we don’t want to compete with this work.
But I do hope that you join us in promoting the Youth Education Bursary this season. Help us spread the word and consider making a donation in the name of someone you care about as part of your holiday gift giving this year.
You can learn more about the bursary and donate (or gift a donation in someone’s name) on our website. Applications for the 2018 Youth Education Bursary will open in January.
Rick FitzZaland
Federation Executive Director