Celebrating Youth
In 1991 another unique opportunity for a new fund came to light that would enable a non-monetary award to middle school children. At the time, no other organization in North America had created such an award. The benefactors, Bill & Shirley Walker, wanted the award to equally recognize excellence in both boys and girls in math and sciences. Nominees also had to demonstrate school community participation.
The George Willoughby Cooke Award has been handed out annually since 1991 and notably many recipients apply for scholarships at high school graduation. Mission Community Foundation is proud to serve as conduits to encourage children to continue to succeed and although the award has become gender neutral, it still holds the values that Bill & Shirley wanted to convey.
To see a list of past winners click here.