Elmvale high school student wins O.F.A.H. youth conservationist of the year

Elmvale high school student wins O.F.A.H. youth conservationist of the year

For his outstanding contributions to conservation and community service, 17-year-old Jimmy Stephens, of the Elmvale High School Get Outdoors Club, has earned the prestigious Junior Conservation Heritage Award. The provincial honor was presented by Ontario’s largest, nonprofit conservation organization, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters.

“It was certainly a thrill to hear my name called for this award,” said Jimmy, who was recognized last weekend by hundreds of O.F.A.H. members, industry representatives and political dignitaries who attended the Federation’s 77th Annual Wildlife Conference, in Toronto.

“Receiving this award was certainly an honor, but our conservation work has really been a team effort by my friends and classmates. We’re proud to involved with the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and it’s great to be a part of the growing success of its Get Outdoors youth program,” said Jimmy.

O.F.A.H. Get Outdoors is the youth conservation phenomenon that has inspired the creation of dozens of youth conservation clubs in schools and communities throughout Ontario. Since joining the Elmvale High School Get Outdoors club, Jimmy has participated in countless community conservation projects, including tree planting and various outdoors expeditions. Jimmy also voluntarily leads public education programs at the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, in Midland.

Robert Pye, O.F.A.H. Communications Coordinator said, “Having personally worked with Jimmy during O.F.A.H. summer camps and youth conferences, I know that he certainly deserves the title of ‘youth conservationist of the year.’ Jimmy is an exemplary young leader with a promising future in promoting conservation.”

Locally, the Wasaga Beach Fish and Game Club supports the Elmvale High School Get Outdoors club. For more information, visit www.getoutdoors.org

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