Awarded on: 2008-10-01
Beth McKenty, Iqaluit, Nunavut
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award
Beth McKenty, of Iqaluit, Nunavut, heard her true calling and had the courage to act. Concerned by the high rate of suicide in Nunavut, Ms. McKenty left her home in Calgary and moved to Iqaluit to help young people cope with hardship through artistic expression. The Arctic Youth Initiative, which Ms. McKenty runs from her home, engages youth and has grown to accommodate more than 300 children. She has also brought art programs to area schools. She also provides safety, warmth and food for many cold and hungry youth. Ms. McKenty bolsters a sense of pride, accomplishment and self-worth in many young people every year.