“This is a very strong curriculum that takes youth out of the classroom and gives them hands-on experience in community economic development and leadership. The Program provides essential tools for Rural Change Makers to move their ideas forward,” said Paul Nichol, General Manager, CF Huron.
Applications for the 2024 RCM program open May 1, 2024 and close July 1, 2024, with the selection process commencing in August 2024 when up to 36 motivated young adults will be selected to join the experience. These leaders will participate in a series of developmental training sessions, come together for experiential gatherings, complete self-assessments, form planning committees for local activities, and lead entrepreneurial or community initiatives.
“Within the priorities of the Haliburton County Development Corporation, we work on the development of initiatives that will increase the number of youth involved in studies in Haliburton County. HCDC will share knowledge, guidance and collective resources to support youth involved in the Rural Change Maker Program alongside our community partners,” said Patti Tallman, Executive Director Haliburton County Development Corporation.
"Renfrew County Community Futures and the County of Renfrew Economic Development Division are pleased to partner to support the Rural Change Maker Program. Shaping emerging leaders to bring forth community development solutions is critical to the future of not only Renfrew County, but to rural communities across Ontario," said Cyndy Phillips, Executive Director, Renfrew County Community Futures and Melissa Marquardt, Manager, County of Renfrew Economic Development Division.
“Participants of ROI’s youth leadership programs do incredible things both in their communities and lives with many past participants taking on leadership roles in local or provincial government, businesses and local community organizations,” says Melanie Bidiuk, ROI Communications Manager and RCM Program Coordinator. “Rural Change Makers are the leaders of tomorrow and this initiative prepares them for those future challenges.”
For more information on the RCM program and how to apply visit https://www.ruralontarioinstitute.ca/changemakers. The deadline for applications is July 1, 2024.
Support for the Rural Change Makers program has been generously provided in part by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ontario Mutual Insurance Association and RBC Future Launch.
Source : Rural Ontario Institute