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NEWS RELEASE
YMCA OF SIMCOE/MUSKOKA
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Three local Orillia students received the 2025 Skid Watson YMCA Scholarships in June from the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka.
Each student was awarded with $1,500 to help fund their post-secondary education.
The Skid Watson YMCA Scholarship is awarded to secondary school graduates in Orillia who demonstrate the YMCA’s values of kindness, integrity, inclusiveness, respect, and optimism. The scholarship is in memory of local humanitarian and leader Gordon Alexander “Skid” Watson in recognition of his commitment to lifelong learning, leadership, and youth development.
The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is pleased to announce the following award recipients for the 2024/2025 school year:
The Skid Watson YMCA Scholarships are made possible through the Skid Watson Endowment Funds held by the Community Foundation of Orillia and Area in partnership with the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. Skid Watson’s family participated in the creation of the scholarships and the selection process, and they are incredibly proud that his legacy will continue to benefit youth in the Orillia community.
Kate Meeks, senior director of philanthropy at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, said, “This scholarship aims to recognize the incredible students in our community who are passionate about learning and community involvement, much like Skid Watson himself. At the YMCA, we believe that by supporting youth and giving them an opportunity to pursue their passions, our communities are strengthened both now and for generations to come. We are very proud to support these wonderful students on their educational journeys.”
To qualify for one of the three available scholarships, students had to submit an essay or video emphasizing their commitment to Y values, commitment to creating a healthier community, post-secondary goals, and how this experience will benefit the community.
Recipient Mila Helferty, from Orillia Secondary School (OSS), is an active member in her community. She is the co-president of Students for Change at OSS, and volunteers with the Orillia Community Fridge as a youth representative, where she co-ordinates food recovery, on-boards other volunteers, and encourages fellow young people to get involved.
Additionally, she volunteers with the Trillium Manor nursing home, where she helps to organize themed events and engages in meaningful conversations with residents.
Next year, Mila plans to attend Queen’s University to pursue a bachelor of science degree, with the goal of becoming a pediatric dentist.
“This career path blends my love of science, my passion for working with children, and my desire to make a meaningful difference. As a pediatric dentist, I hope to promote early oral health education, reduce dental anxiety in children, and improve access to care — especially for underserved communities,” said Mila.
Recipient Jyllian Jenkins is a member and current president of the Patrick Fogarty Social Activism Club. The club strives to raise awareness for many social injustices within the community, especially homelessness in Orillia. Jyllian organized the club’s Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser, which raised a total of $2,800. Additionally, Jyllian is a member of her school’s Multicultural Club and is part of the committee at Relay for Life.
Jyllian plans to attend the University of Guelph to pursue an honours bachelor of science degree in biochemistry, after which she plans to attend more schooling before an eventual career in the healthcare sector.
“My experiences at the Geneva Park YMCA sparked my passion for service to my community. The empathy, respect, and inclusivity I received guided me to make a positive impact on my community,” said Jyllian.
Recipient Morgan Rowe, from Twin Lakes Secondary School, has spent much of his life around the Y. He was day camp counsellor, lifeguard/swim instructor, membership service staff and he took part in the YMCA’s annual Move to Give fundraiser. In school, Morgan took a Safe Talk course to be able to provide support to his fellow students. He is a LINK Crew volunteer ensuring that new students at the school feel welcome, supported, and included. He is also a part of the student council, where he helps plan fun, engaging, and accessible events for the school’s students.
In the fall, Morgan plans to attend Fleming College for the paramedic program.
“I am interested in becoming a paramedic as it’s a fast-paced career that helps others in the face of crisis or health emergencies. I am excited about an opportunity to contribute to my community and help to keep the public safe,” said Morgan.
The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka and the Community Foundation of Orillia and Area are inspired by all the youth who applied for the Skid Watson YMCA Scholarships and their amazing contributions to their communities. For more information about the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, please visit their website, www.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca.
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