The Young Achievers Awards are a unique programme. As well as recognising the achievements of exceptional young people, we offer them 12 months of support and development opportunities, enabling them to realise their passions and make an even greater impact in their communities.

Every year we reward 56 young people across our four awards categories: sport, arts, environment and community. The awards are judged by young people and experts in each field, who look of evidence of individuals' personal growth, leadership and community impact.

The Young Achievers Awards aim to:

> Recognise, grow and nurture exceptional young volunteers to enable them to achieve the greatest possible impact in their communities
> Inspire more young people to become engaged in volunteering and create positive stories about young people in the media

The awards celebrate young people who have:

> Shown innovation or creativity in their volunteering
> Demonstrated leadership in creating and developing projects
> Used their energy, commitment and enthusiasm to raise awareness
> Created something worth replicating elsewhere and inspired others
> Demonstrated a willingness to develop their talents into new areas

If you know of a young person you think deserves to win a Young Achievers Award don't forget to nominate them.

Nominations for the 2010 Young Achievers Awards will open next year. If you want to be the first to find out when they are open e-mail info@youngachievers.co.uk to be put onto the mailing list.