Thanks to Youth is an awards luncheon that honors exceptional youth in our community. It is one of SITM’s signature events and is central to our mission of supporting women and children. Thanks to Youth began in May, 1987 as a way to honor the “unsung heroes” among the youth in our community. These youth were not necessarily student scholars or athletes, but just ordinary students doing extraordinary things in their schools, churches and for families.
In the 1990s, SITM wanted to add youth scholarships to the program. Funding for scholarships was initially received from donations from local businesses. Over time the program expanded due to the generosity of Mr. John Farahi, owner of the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. The lunches, room, and servers are all donated by Mr. Farahi and the Atlantis. This means that all the money raised through sponsorships, ticket sales and raffle sales goes directly to fund scholarships and Unsung Hero awards for the following year.
An “Unsung Hero” is a child 7-18 years of age attending school in Washoe County, who demonstrates kindness, generosity, concern for others, humility, courage, perseverance or the ability to overcome hardships in a way that inspires others and makes the world a better place. Scholarship recipients are awarded to graduating high school seniors from our community who will further their education with post-secondary college or professional training. Students with at least a 2.5 GPA and demonstrated financial need are eligible to apply. Scholarships are paid in two installments, directly to the school.
Unsung Hero nomination forms and Scholarship applications are available here.
Thanks to Youth 2020
Due to the pandemic, 2020 was quite a bit different. Instead of the luncheon, our recipients were feted with a drive by tribute. See the winners
In Their Words
Halla Mansfield – Youth Scholarship
Caitlin McLaughlin – Unsung Hero
Kylie Kibala – Unsung Hero
Evelyn Magana – Youth Scholarship Award
Anna Kropiowska – Unsung Hero
Lindsey’s Story