FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is AWRSAY?

AWRSAY is the acronym for Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth. This organization was created in 2001 and is supported by Arvada and Wheat Ridge Service Clubs, Jeffco Schools, Red Rocks Community College and Foundation, the cities of Arvada and Wheat Ridge and other local businesses and community members whose mission is to support youth.

What is the purpose AWRSAY?

AWRSAY strives to ensure that youth who otherwise might go unrecognized yet have overcome adversity in their personal or student life, receive public praise, education, and on-going opportunities to help them achieve their potential. Since 2001, AWRSAY has recognized 2,095 students and 488 scholarships awarded to Red Rocks Community College.

How are students nominated?

Each year, beginning in the fall, nominations are requested from Arvada and Wheat Ridge middle and high schools. Nominations come from counselors and teachers, but anyone (SRO’s, school administrators, coaches, family friends, etc.) can nominate a worthy student. Self-nominations are also accepted. The nominator and the student both submit a personal statement describing how the student is deserving of the award. This is an important part of the process, so please be sure to help your nominee complete the process.
Nomination Form Personal Statement Form

How are the students recognized?

Each year the students receive recognition at a ceremony held at an Arvada or Wheat Ridge area high school where they will receive recognition for their accomplishments. Students in grades six through twelve are eligible to receive a $400 personal development award to use toward a program or activity that will assist in their pursuit of individual growth and success. A limited number of seniors are eligible for up to a $5,000 scholarship to Red Rocks Community College (dependent on GPA and credit hour load). A completed nomination form including a personal statement by the nominee must be submitted to be considered for an award.

What happens during the ceremony?

During the ceremony, each student will be invited on stage to receive an AWRSAY certificate of recognition, a Congressional certificate stating that their name will be read into the Congressional Record in Washington D.C and an AWRSAY. This is a time to celebrate those who often do not receive recognition. We invite you to attend in helping us celebrate these deserving youth.

What happens after the ceremony?

We follow up with the award recipients to make sure they understand how to use either their award or scholarship to Red Rocks Community College. Students must acknowledge the use of their award so we can allocate the resources in a timely manner. Your service club liaison is also available to assist the students.