Youth recognized with Jack Leslie Youth Environment Grant

Student and teacher representatives from Forest Lawn High School and William Aberhart High School were recognized with the Jack Leslie Youth Environment Grant. They were presented with a commemorative plaque and a $1000 project grant at a luncheon during The City of Calgary’s annual Eco-Leaders Youth Conference.

“It is so gratifying to see dedicated students learning about the environment, understanding the impact of everyday actions and making a difference in the community,” said Deputy Mayor, Shane Keating. “It is up to each of us to make meaningful choices towards creating a healthier environment.”

Forest Lawn High School received a grant for their Naturalization project, which includes creating a native prairie garden outside the school. The garden provides a valuable opportunity for students to learn about habitat restoration, prairie ecology and horticulture.

William Aberhart High School received a grant for their Eco-Friendly and Ethical T-Shirts at Abe project. They purchased organic, ethical, Canadian made T-shirts for gym and have raised awareness in the school about the impact purchases have on our ecosystem.

The Jack Leslie Youth Environment Grant was initiated in 2004 by The City of Calgary in partnership with the Mayor’s Youth Council and the Parks Foundation to recognize the environmental contributions of former Mayor Jack Leslie. The grants are supported through the Jack Leslie family, The City of Calgary, and Youth Central.

“I volunteered to be the MC for the Jack Leslie Environment awards because I truly believe that it’s important to recognize my peers doing great things,” says Alex Wadey, member of the Mayor’s Youth Council. “As youth, we should all consider ways to reduce our environmental impact so we’ll have a greener future.”

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