Five outstanding youths in the community have stepped up and already fulfilled the requirements needed to achieve their Silver Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
On Friday, May 24, Maria Patterson, Natalie Westman, Raine McDougald, William Hoover and Michelle Hoover were in Calgary to accept their award at a ceremony at the McDougall Centre. The Honourable Donald Ethell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta presented the award.
These were the first silver recipients in the community since the program began in the area less than two years ago. The award recipients represent a cross section of the community with representation from Drumheller as well as Starland County.
To achieve the award, the students have to achieve a number of goals along their way, including volunteer hours, physical activity, and an adventure.
“It is really rewarding because you do so much in the community, and, because you work hard for it, it’s fulfilling," said Patterson. “It broadens your perspective and makes you more selfless, just because you are helping more people, and that makes you a better person.”
“You realize there is so much you can do in your community,” adds Westman.
The group is aiming to complete their gold awards by next spring.
Five area students achieved the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award and they were presented in a ceremony by the Honourable Donald Ethell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. At the ceremony are (l-r) RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dale McGowan; RCMP Sergeant Blaine Rahier; Michelle Hoover; Maria Patterson; Col. (Ret’d) the Honourable Donald S. Ethell, OC OMM AOE MSC CD LLD; Natalie Westman; Raine McDougald; William Hoover; RCMP Inspector Don McKenna and Drumheller RCMP Staff Sergeant Art Hopkins.
