The Parker Youth Commission was formed last fall with the mission of growing and supporting the next generation of leaders in our community. Our Town Council and I wanted to provide Parker’s youngest residents with a much-needed outlet to represent the needs of their peers.

I’m proud to report that this group of exceptional young people has hit the ground running! I have been impressed with our commission members’ drive and motivation to make their mark on the community in such a short time period. They have several active projects already in the works, including assisting with the commissioning of a new mural that will soon adorn the East-West Trail underpass at Chambers Road.

The promotion of community youth involvement has been another of the Youth Commission’s big priorities thus far. The group recently held its first awards contest recognizing influential and talented young individuals in our community. Ceremonies were held in late July to present the award winners.

I am thankful that these amazing young people showed their hometown spirit by participating in an event that showcased Parker and how they have made an impact in our Town. I am also grateful to the parents and families who have fostered good citizenship. We all know Parker is a very special place, and here are more examples of young people exemplifying what we love about our Town.

The Spirit of Parker Award was designed to recognize high school students who have made a positive, meaningful and beneficial impact on the Town of Parker. Submission requirements included a written composition, short-question answers and a letter of recommendation. Two winners were presented with $1,000 scholarships that will go directly to their higher education institute of choice.

Two Spirit of Parker Award recipients were selected—Emma Adams and Megan Bright. Emma is a Legend High School graduate who plans to pursue a degree in nursing at Grand Canyon University starting this fall, while Megan is a Ponderosa High School graduate who plans to attend the University of Northern Colorado this fall to study elementary education.

The Youth Commission’s second honor, the Pride of Parker Award, was designed to provide middle school students with an opportunity to express what Parker means to them through a visual art submission. Four winners—Isabella Benitez, Catalina Benitez, Drisha Mishra and Faye Reynolds–were selected to receive $200 gift cards after creating works ranging from multimedia art and drawings to photography.

Each of these talented young individuals were recognized by having their works placed on public display at the PACE Center through mid-August.

Do you know a teen who you think would be a good fit for the Parker Youth Commission? A search is currently underway for a talented student to fill one open position for a two-year term! Learn more about how students can apply to serve, including qualification requirements, at ParkerOnline.org/YouthCommission.

Jeff Toborg is mayor of the Town of Parker