The 2025 vernon junior good citizen - ash burdett

● Ash has been in the Awaken Nature Education program (Awaken Inquiry and Adventure Okanagan) that runs out of Fulton high school for three years. Ash is 15 years old.

● Ash has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fostering inclusivity, advocating for marginalized communities, and uplifting others through their actions and leadership.

● Ash works hard and has created space for others, helping to normalize gender inclusivity and acceptance in our greater society.

● Ash has been actively involved in numerous school projects and community events, including collaborating with the Family Resource Centre on the "Binder Exchange Project," which provides chest binders to trans youth who need them. This ongoing initiative has had an impact, offering tangible support to those navigating their gender identity.

● Ash’s artistic talents and advocacy have also shone through their involvement with the Vernon Arts Centre and the Vernon Pride Society.

● Ash participated in the Transgender Day of Remembrance poetry reading, where they read their own moving poem to the Vernon community, further demonstrating their ability to inspire and connect with others.

● Through their artistic projects, Ash has demonstrated a deep commitment to truth and reconciliation, creating a painting inspired by the teachings of an OKIB knowledge keeper. This profound piece of art reflects Ash’s desire to create a more inclusive and supportive community, while honoring and amplifying the experiences of Two-Spirit individuals.

● Ash is co-facilitating a self-care art class at Awaken Inquiry and Adventure Okanagan (AIAO), helping classmates develop skills to help navigate challenging times.

● When the School District made the decision to close Awaken last year, Ash emerged as a leader among the disheartened students, reading a powerful statement to the school board about the importance of the program. Their advocacy contributed to the successful effort to keep the program running.

● Ash's next goals surround the Canadian Mental Health Association’s youth peer support program. Their consistent dedication to making a difference exemplifies the qualities of a Junior Good Citizen. Ash’s efforts to create safe spaces, advocate for equity, and uplift others have made a lasting impact.

The  North Okanagan Optimist club is thrilled to be working in partnership with  Kidston Helm Ross Lawyers to present a new award in Vernon.

The  first community Junior Good Citizen of the Year will be announced in  January of 2024. Styled after the longstanding Good Citizen of the Year  award that  is presented by JCI Vernon, the Junior Good Citizen will be between the  ages of 8 and 18. "The mission statement of Optimist International is  to bring out the best in youth, our  communities and ourselves, therefore we feel recognizing a junior good  citizen is just right for our local club." says event chair Kathleen  Dubois.

The  award will celebrate community contributions made by a local child. The  Junior Good Citizen of the Year will also be directing a generous  donation to  their charity of choice thanks to the partnership of Kidston Helm Ross.