The Innovate for Impact program, led by Community Futures East Kootenay (CFEK) and Impact Toolbox, helps young people in the Kootenays advance social entrepreneurship and develop ideas and projects that strengthen local communities. Events will be held to showcase innovative ideas from youth in the region.
“Over the last few months, high school students throughout the Kootenays have been developing their ideas for social enterprises as well as their entrepreneurial skills. They started by identifying real problems in their communities and with a flexible, hands-on online curriculum, and the support of mentors, they designed solutions and built social enterprise ideas from the ground up.” said Robyn Peel, Community Economic Development Manager with CFEK.
The Impact Youth Pitch Showcase will be held online May 28 at 5:30 p.m. MDT. Youth teams will present their ideas and some projects will be selected by a jury to receive funding support to help bring them to life. Funding for the awards comes from StellerVista Credit Union and CFEK.
CFEK is also hosting the Kootenay Late Night Social Impact Summit on June 2. The online summit will feature local community leaders and stories about social impact work happening in the region.
“There is no shortage of people doing remarkable things, transforming their communities. This virtual, talk show-style celebration will give them a chance to share their stories.” said Peel.
People interested in becoming mentors for future youth groups can attend an information session June 9 at 4:30 p.m. MDT. Mentors will receive support, a ready-to-use curriculum and a $500 stipend. Community leaders such as teachers, coaches and youth workers who already work with groups of youth are ideal candidates.
Individuals interested in the showcase, summit or mentorship opportunities can find information, event registration links and application forms online here.
Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.
