The Volunteer Airdrie Society has become Alberta's first Open Award Centre for the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Program.

The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is a globally recognized youth program for those aged 14 to 24. The program plays a critical role in helping youth develop important skills, be physically active, experience adventure, and engage with the community.

Dave Maffitt, Chair of the Volunteer Airdrie Society, said they began the application process in late summer of 2018 and were pleased to be approved just a few weeks ago.

"We're thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such a prestigious international organization," says Maffitt, adding that "the timing couldn't be better because Airdrie's focus right now is on their youth engagement strategy."

This program sets Volunteer Airdrie's mandate of promoting volunteerism through its big community service component.

"We see this as a great additional opportunity in Airdrie for youth to consider as part of their development," says Maffitt.

More than 140 countries worldwide have youth participating in The Duke of Edinburgh's program and now Airdrie's young community can too.

 

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