The Rewards of Being a Young Leader

April 23, 2008 | Community News | Archive 2008

As a literacy tutor at the John Howard Society of Manitoba, Rebecca Hutchings is dedicated to providing Winnipeggers with the fundamental building blocks for a good life.

2008 United Way Youth in Action Scholarship recipients from left to right:
Amber Sinclair, Kimberly Chambers, Benisia Whenzle and Rebecca Hutchings

"The most gratifying aspect of volunteering comes from working with students and seeing their potential and their successes, and seeing the impact that has on their self-esteem," says Rebecca. "It has been a truly rewarding and eye-opening experience."

Truly rewarding indeed. In return for her demonstrated leadership and impact in the community, Rebecca is receiving a $500 scholarship from United Way of Winnipeg.

Rebecca is one of four young Winnipeggers being recognized with a 2008 United Way Youth Leaders in Action Scholarship for their efforts to create opportunities for a better life for everyone.

This year's other scholarship recipients are Amber Sinclair for the encouragement she's shown peers as a youth mentor at Ka Ni Kanichihk Inc., and full time students Benisia Whenzle and Kimberly Chambers for their volunteer work at the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg. The recipients were awarded their scholarships live on Citytv's Breakfast Television.

Each year, United Way awards four scholarships to students under the age of 30 who are associated with a United Way agency partner as a volunteer, employee or program participant.

"One thing United Way focuses on is helping youth achieve their potential," says Raji Kaler, a volunteer on United Way's Youth Relations Council. "These scholarships not only help students further their education, they recognize volunteers for their commitment to making Winnipeg a better place."

Children need role models like these exceptional young leaders. That's why United Way supports mentorship and after-school programs that give children and youth the self-esteem and confidence they need to graduate and become engaged and productive adults.

Congratulations to this year's Youth Leaders in Action Scholarship recipients. Keep up the great work!

Learn more about United Way's Youth Leaders in Action Scholarships here.

A message to Winnipeg about United Way's campaign Janury 5, 2012