Christopher Cutler was a champion of the YMCA's mission with a deep understanding of the important role YMCA programs play to level the playing field for people of all ages.
Chris began his career at the YMCA Youth Employment Services in Burlington as a Job Developer / Employment Counsellor in 1992. When the opportunity arose expand YMCA employment services in Hamilton, Chris took on the challenge and was promoted to Manager of Hamilton Employment Programs. Over his 13 years at the YMCA, Chris played a key role in the development, implementation and expansion of employment services, including the establishment of the Employment Services office on Main Street East in Hamilton, as well as the Career Cruiser, a mobile career centre that brought employment services directly to neighbourhoods and partners who needed them most.
Beyond his commitment to his work in the community, Chris is remembered as a person who deeply cared about others, his colleagues, the community, and especially children and youth who need assistance.
Chris believed strongly in seeding the roots of peace in young people - a passion that will be carried on through the Christopher Cutler Youth Development Scholarship in his memory.
Two awards will be presented to deserving young people in support of their leadership development, training or education, to help them reach their potential.
Funding
Seed funding for the Christopher Cutler Youth Development Scholarship is generously supported by Fluke Transport, TRIO Capital Group Inc., Royal Bank of Canada, Lou Frapporti and The Joyce Family Foundation.
The YMCA invites youth from across Hamilton to apply for a scholarship of $1000 in support of the applicant's education and career development. Youth must be referred by their school guidance counsellor or a YMCA staff member.
Funds are issued directly to the post-secondary institution to which the applicant has been accepted or currently attends.
Eligibility
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Financial need
- Strong desire to want to help build a better world
- Positive attitude that inspires others
- Endurance to overcome obstacles
Application Information
All applications must be submitted online using the online application.
2024 applications are now closed. The 2024/2025 application process will be announced in Winter 2025.
"We need to ensure our children learn that the world can be a just place and that each and every one of them has purpose."
~ Christopher Cutler
