2026 WILL Community Award

(Winiski Inspiring Learning & Leading)

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Administered by the North Thompson Communities Foundation

Funding Amount: $2,850

Purpose: To empower a Barriere and area resident to gain new skills while directly contributing to the vitality of our community.

1. Award Overview
This one-time award is to support Barriere area residents who are committed to lifelong learning and community service. This award recognizes that personal advancement through education is most powerful when it is paired with a commitment to give back to the place we call home.

2. Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the applicant must:

• Residency: Be a current resident of the Barriere area (including McLure to Little Fort).

• Educational Path: Be enrolled in, or have a letter of acceptance for, a certificate program, professional development course, or post-secondary schooling.

• Commitment to Service: Demonstrate a clear plan to contribute volunteer hours toward a local project or a registered non-profit organization within Barriere.

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3. The "Volunteer Pledge" Requirement
The core of this grant is the reciprocal commitment. Applicants must outline a "Community Impact Project" or a partnership with a local organization (e.g., NTCF, Food Bank, Seniors Center, or Youth Sports) where they will complete a minimum of 50 volunteer hours over the course of one year.

4. Application Requirements
Applicants are asked to provide a "Learn and Lead" proposal consisting of:

1. The "Learn" Component: A personal statement (500 words) and description of the schooling or program and how it will enhance the applicant's skills or career path.

2. The "Lead" Component: A specific plan detailing how the applicant will "pay it forward" in Barriere. This includes identifying the local organization or project they will support and the estimated timeline for their volunteer hours.

3. Proof of Program: Evidence of the educational opportunity (tuition invoice, acceptance letter).

4. Reference Letter: One letter from a community member or organization attesting to your character and commitment to the North Thompson Valley.

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5. Selection Process
The selection process is a collaborative effort to ensure the spirit of the gift is met:

• The Panel: Applications will be reviewed by a joint selection committee comprised of NTCF Board representatives and the Winiski family.

• Focus: The panel will prioritize applicants who show a genuine passion for Barriere and a realistic, impactful volunteer plan.

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6. Fund Administration

• Management: The NTCF will hold the funds, issue the official award letter, and handle the tax receipting for the donors (if applicable).

• Disbursement: $1,425 (50%) awarded upon proof of enrollment; the remaining $1,425 (50%) awarded upon completion of the volunteer hours and a brief "Impact Report." The award will be issued to a qualified donee (municipality or TNRD).