About the Program

The Arapahoe County Mayors and Commissioners Youth Awards (ACMCYA) recognizes teenagers who have overcome obstacles and risen to challenges life has presented. This award is unique because it encompasses youth who live and attend school in Arapahoe County within traditional classroom settings, group homes, alternative schools, and emancipated youth.

Scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors who have overcome adversity and wish to pursue post-secondary educational opportunities at vocational, two- or four-year schools.

Eligibility

• Seniors (grade 12) who live and attend school in Arapahoe County are eligible to receive a post-secondary educational scholarship to be used in 2023. 
• Youth related to Arapahoe County employees are not eligible for this program. 

Process

The application is to be submitted by a teacher/counselor/school administrator, and not related to the youth. The nominator must provide details on why the student should be considered for the award including, ways in which the student has helped their community and how they have overcome challenges. Nominators will need to attach a student-written 3-paragraph essay describing what they have learned from overcoming challenges, plans for their future and what they hope to accomplish in the years ahead. 

A committee comprised of county elected officials (commissioners, mayors, etc.) review applications and make recommendations for awards and scholarships based on the student’s desire to rise above adversity, determination to create positive change within their environment, and the positive contributions and service to their communities and families. 

Scholarship amounts and the number of scholarships awarded are determined on a year-by-year basis. In 2022, 16 scholarships for post-secondary education were awarded, ranging from $500 to $2,000. An additional 7 students were recognized during the event ceremony.

Nomination Deadline

You can nominate a student by using the County's grant application form. Submissions must be completed by Friday, March 3, 2023 at 5 p.m.

Program or Sponsorship Questions

Questions about the process or program should be directed to Daniela Villarreal at dvillarreal@arapahoegov.com.

Thank You to our Presenting Sponsor

The youth awards are sponsored by the Groove Auto Keep Driving Foundation. 

The Keep Driving Foundation is committed to investing in the communities where we do business by providing access to funding that will help drive change and build a brighter future for individuals and organizations in need.