A church youth leader from North Yorkshire has won a prestigious community award for his services to young people and for inspiring young people and youth leaders.
Stephen Cooke from East Cowton near Richmond was one of the winners at the Hambleton District Community Awards, 2016, and was presented with the trophy for Services to Young People at a ceremony in Northallerton.
East Cowton is a small rural village of around 500 people and Steve was up against stiff competition from across the District which includes Bedale, Leeming, Northallerton and Thirsk.
An active member of the Church, Steve has volunteered with the Youth Group (YG) for the last eleven years and regularly gives up his Friday nights to lead sessions for children from the village and surrounding areas.
He is assisted by a group of volunteers who enable a wide-range of activities to run for the children. Sessions range from First Aid to graffiti art, street dance and trips to organised youth events such as The Big Night Out and Go Large.
Recently the youth group raised more than £1500 by holding a Food and Film night, cooked and served by Steve and the young people. It was followed by an Advent Sleep Out, held in the Church for the Church Urban Fund. Steve has also led a two week visit for YG to Tanzania to teach English at an orphanage.
The Service to Young People Award is awarded to a group or individual that has made a significant positive impact in young people’s lives above and beyond the call of duty. This could include a group or individual that works with young people tackling issues related to employment, health and well-being, citizenship, mentoring and/or volunteering.
In giving this year’s award, organisers said, “Ultimately Steve and his team of volunteers provide a safe and stimulating place for the local youth to grow and develop into the life of the Church and the citizens of tomorrow.”