Human Services Director Barbara Butler has announced that the Westport Youth Commission invites the local community to submit nominations for the annual James S. Bacharach Service to the Community Award.   

“The award, given to one or more Westport high school seniors, recognizes their significant community service contributions in Westport, “said Butler.  ”All qualified Westport high school seniors are eligible for this award, considered to be one of the most prestigious high school honors in town.” 

Citations have been given annually since 1989 as a tribute to the late James S. Bacharach, a founder and past president of the Youth Adult Council, predecessor of the Westport Youth Commission, which Bacharach and other concerned citizens founded in 1974. 

“Successful applicants must demonstrate exemplary leadership ability and high standards of community service to our town,” said Butler. “Anyone may nominate a deserving student or high school seniors are free to nominate themselves.” 

Applications will be at the counseling offices at Staples High School, Greens Farms Academy, Hopkins School, Laurelton, Fairfield Prep, at Toquet Hall, the Westport Public Library and from the Department of Human Services, located at Town Hall.  Applications may also be downloaded from the links to the right.

 The application should be submitted along with a maximum of two references or letters of support attesting to the student's contribution to the community. Finalists will be chosen by a subcommittee of the Westport Youth Commission.  Winners will be announced at the annual end-of-year awards presentation at the recipients’ school.

The Westport Youth Commission, appointed by the First Selectman and staffed by the Department of Human Services, is comprised of 15 Westport high school students and an equal number of Westport adults.   

The commission serves as a catalyst for programs and activities that promote the positive development of youth in their families, schools, community and among their peers.  Its achievements include the creation of Toquet Hall, startup of the Compo Beach skate park, the development of SpeedDial, a pocket-sized informational and help guide for teens, and  a comprehensive plan to address Underage Drinking in Town.  The Westport Youth Commission also runs a peer education program around internet safety entitled the iMentor program and continues to work toward a local programs and services which address the needs of young people and their families.  

For further information and nomination forms, contact Elaine Daignault at 341-1155 or by e-mail.  Applications must be faxed (341-1073) e-mailed, or mailed to Department. of Human Services, Attention: Bacharach Awards Committee, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport by April 25.