The Rick Curtis Children & Youth Award recognizes outstanding initiatives that empower and support children and/or youth in Alberta through recreation and sport. Named in honor of former Alberta Recreation & Parks Association (ARPA) CEO Rick Curtis, this award celebrates organizations and programs that prioritize the holistic development of children and/or youth. Rick Curtis was a strong advocate for the role of recreation in children and youth well-being, and this award continues his legacy by acknowledging initiatives that foster holistic development. 

Eligibility

• Alberta based initiatives
• Communities or Organizations include: 
• Municipalities
• Not for Profit Organizations
• Business
• Schools
• Individuals or Groups
• Alberta Recreation & Parks Association membership is encouraged and may be prioritized in the selection process

The project or initiative must:

• Provide recreational opportunities specifically designed for children and/or youth under the age of 18 years old.
• Showcase partnerships or collaborations with organizations and agencies involved in children and/or youth development. 
• Youth involvement in the planning and/or decision-making process is strongly encouraged.

After You Apply

The ARPA Awards and Scholarships Committee with representation from all aspects of the recreation and parks sector and across the province will select the award recipient. The committee will evaluate the nominations by rating:

• Children & Youth-Focused Recreation & Holistic Development: The initiative must provide high-quality recreational opportunities specifically designed for children and/or youth under the age of 18. Programs should emphasize engagement, well-being, personal growth, and holistic development.
• Commitment to Quality Assurance: The initiative should demonstrate a strong commitment to delivering high-quality programming for children and/or youth. This may include staff training, program evaluation, and continuous improvement efforts to enhance holistic development.
• Youth Engagement & Leadership: The initiative should actively involve children and/or youth in planning, decision-making, and implementation. Participants should have meaningful opportunities to contribute their ideas, perspectives, and feedback, fostering autonomy and leadership.
• Partnership & Collaboration: Successful nominees will showcase collaboration between multiple organizations, agencies, or community groups involved in the holistic development and recreation of children and/or youth.
• Community Impact & Advocacy: The initiative should positively impact the community by fostering the holistic development of children and/or youth and advocating for the value of recreation in their lives.

Each year, the Alberta Recreation & Parks Association presents the award during the ARPA Conference & Energize Workshop. Award recipients will receive:

• Recognition at an awards ceremony 
• Meal tickets for two (2) with the option to purchase additional tickets
• Mileage reimbursement and 1 night hotel accommodations to attend the ceremony
• A keepsake to display in their facilities

Contact

Connect with the Awards & Scholarships Committee:

Hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)

Phone: 780-415-1745

Email: awards@arpaonline.ca