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 the Executive Offices of the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. The lunches, room, and servers continue to be donated by the Atlantis Executive Offices. 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 an elementary or middle school student 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 attend vocational or technical schools. Students were evaluated on community involvement, dedication to future goals and personal challenges they’ve overcome. Scholarships are paid in two installments, directly to the school.
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In Their Words
Halla Mansfield – Youth Scholarship
Caitlin McLaughlin – Unsung Hero
Kylie Kibala – Unsung Hero
Lindsey’s Story