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Showing posts with label Awards. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Awards. Show all posts

Sunday, April 23, 2023

Cody Howitt - Mayor's Award for Distinguished Voluntary Service

The Alberta Junior Forest Warden Association congratulates our Chief Warden of Alberta, Cody Howitt, on his Mayor’s Award for Distinguished Voluntary Service.


Cody's outstanding volunteerism and community building in Red Deer and across Alberta are being recognized at an upcoming event in June and we couldn't be more proud! He is an exceptional person who has dedicated countless hours for over 25 years to the youth of our community through outdoor mentorship. He is a model of our organizational philosophy of teaching youth and families to enjoy the outdoors while respecting our natural environment.  He is skilled in all four of our educational pillars of Forestry, Outdoor Skills, Ecology and Leadership. 

  • Forestry: Forestry Protection, Forestry Uses, Forestry Management, Wildlife Management, Outdoor Recreation, Watershed Management, Range Management & Community Service.
  • Outdoor Skills: First Aid, Fire Lighting Techniques, Outdoor Clothing, Shelter, Navigation, Outdoor Safety, Responsible Camping and Hiking, Knots & Lashings, Survival, Search & Rescue, Outdoor Equipment, Hikes & Camp-outs. 
  • Ecology: Enjoying the Outdoors, Classification, Interrelationships Between Species & their Environment, and Environmental Changes (weather, climate). 
  • Leadership: Planning, Responsibility, Cooperation, Leadership of Others, Community Service.

Cody grew up in the Red Deer Junior Forest Wardens Club and found mentorship in the late Bob Skarra, who taught him firsthand the impact a safe and positive role model could have on a person's character. Once Cody caught the outdoor bug, he joined in 1984 when he was ten years old through graduating from the Junior Forest Warden program in 1992. He immediately took up leadership/mentorship roles in Red Deer Club. His only hiatus was when he and his wife moved to Edmonton for five years for post-secondary education. As soon as they returned, he was back to his leadership/mentorship roles serving the youth and families of Red Deer once again.  He has been a leader and has mentored consistently from 2001 to the present day. 

Cody has served in many roles over the years as a leader for the Red Deer Woodchucks Junior Forest Warden Club and David Thompson Regional President for the Alberta Junior Forest Warden Association. Most recently, in 2020, Cody was Awarded the distinguished role of Chief Warden of Alberta, where he currently serves. 

When COVID came upon us, Cody went straight to his garage to begin launching Junior Forest Warden programming online and staying connected with people. Now that we are through the worst of it, he has been planning the National Camp that was cancelled due to COVID and we look forward to an exceptional community-building experience this summer.

Cody is a kind, humble and dedicated role model in our community, positively influencing our citizens in every capacity that he serves in our organization. From weekly club meetings, committee meetings, weekend camp trips, week-long adventure trips, National Camps, and annual tree planting initiatives to the Red Deer Sportsman show and more. 

Outside of the Junior Forest Warden activities, Cody takes the initiative to organize family and friends Kayak and Canoe trips down the Red Deer River to help families gain confidence on the water and have fun together. Tree planting is very near to his heart, not only with our extensive  Junior Forest Warden Annual planting initiatives but also partnering with Pheasants Forever to plant trees in the Red Deer community and throughout Central Alberta. 

We can’t think of a more deserving person for the Red Deer Mayor Award!

Cody with his long-time Mentor Bob Skarra when he was awarded Assistant Chief Warden of Alberta at the Annual General Meeting in April 2018. He also awarded Bob Skarra the Lifetime Achievement.
Cody on his latest Winter Outreach Adventure trip 2023




























Additional links:

https://www.reddeeradvocate.com/local-news/tree-planting-teaches-valuable-lessons-about-environment/


https://www.reddeeradvocate.com/uncategorized/bikers-work-to-revitalize-neglected-park-space/





Wednesday, March 23, 2022

2022 Jumping Pound Volunteer of the Year



On November 13, 2021 the 12th annual presentation of the Jumping Pound Camp Volunteer of the Year award was made at a gathering held at JFW's Jumping Pound Camp near Calgary to Steven Weimer of the Calgary Sarcee Club.

This award is presented to the person deemed most deserving of it, as agreed by previous award recipients.  It has traditionally been given to a member who has made a substantial contribution to the construction, maintenance and other physical development of the site.  

Steven has been a strong supporter of the Camp for many years both as a member of the Calgary Sarcee Club as well as through his contributions as a valuable member of the recently formed AJFWA Jumping Pound Camp Committee.  While his physical contributions to the site have been most appreciated, Steven has been a key contributor in other aspects of the well-being of the Camp, particularly his diplomatic approach to sticky issues. 

Congratulations to Steven and thank you for your dedicated support of Jumping Pound.

To learn more about the award, visit our Members Only Site or click here.






Tuesday, July 13, 2021

Jumping Pound Cabin Dedications

 

July 13, 2021 Update:  

Long time members Mors Kochanski and Bob Skarra, who both passed away in December 2019, are being recognized with the dedication of two cabins at Jumping Pound Camp in their names. This event had been on hold due to the pandemic, but is now scheduled for the September 3-5, 2021 long weekend.  The official dedication starts at 2:00 on Saturday, September 4.  Bill Bresnahan, Chief Warden of Alberta from 1980 to 1995 who passed away in March 2020, will also be honoured. This is a public event in accordance with AJFWA's Guest Policy as non-JFW's will be in attendance.  


Wednesday, November 04, 2020

2020 Jumping Pound Award

 

On October 24th, 2020, we presented our 10th anniversary Volunteer of the Year award for JP Camp to Stephen Glendinning. I have had the pleasant task of dealing with this award for JP Camp since it was first presented to me by Al Wardale and Roger Madaire on the occasion of our 50th anniversary celebrations in 2010. Stephen is relatively new to the JFW family, and has been an enthusiastic participant in many club, district and regional activities. His technical skills and work ethics have been a huge boost to the well-being of the camp. It is always a pleasure to work with these very clever people from the Peace River Country.

We appreciate the support of many of the previous recipients in wishing Stephen well on yet another JFW road to adventure. Our resident bard and sword-fighting troubadour, Kelly Hunt (a previous recipient) as always, had a few words to say:

For many years now, this trophy has been awarded to those who have shown a special interest in keeping this camp moving ahead. The sculpture is yours to display in your home for the next year as a reminder of your service. This year something new has been added.  In recognition of this award our club would like to send you and your family on a week-long getaway to an all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta. Sadly, we cannot, due to COVID 19 restrictions. Other years, we couldn’t do it because we don’t have the money. But this year, COVID 19, definitely. However, as an alternative, Brian has proposed to pick you up in the International to be whisked away for an exclusive weekend at the newly opened McBride’s Porta My Yarda. Activities include potato digging, laundry sorting as well as unlimited access to the firewood pile, complete with splitting axe. Also included is the virtual hot tub as well as complementary mini bar pre-emptied for your convenience. Please confirm dates with Margery or Maeve as they need to know how many hammocks to string up around the water heater.

In conclusion, as you are no doubt overwhelmed by the honour bestowed upon you this day, keep in mind the many celebrated figures that have led the way along this path of legends. Take time to bask in the glory of knowing that you are expected to continue to exhaust yourself, ignore your loved ones, skin your knuckles, strain your back and overcome all common sense in the ongoing struggle to become one with this incredible place.

In recognition of your most welcome efforts, we thank you.

Where are the F18s? There is supposed to be a flyover of F18s! How am I supposed to end this without the flyover? I gotta make a phone call!

Hey, by the way. Congratulations.

Submitted by Brian McBride


Saturday, September 12, 2020

Terry Garrett, Chief Warden Emeritus

At the September 1, 2020 AJFWA Board Meeting, Terry Garret was appointed as Chief Warden Emeritus.  The following is the letter that Cody Howitt submitted nominating her for this well-deserved honour:

 

Friday, March 06, 2020

Service Awards

Hello Club Coordinators and Registrars,

It is getting close to that time of year when we recognize people for their Years of Service to your club.  We need you to compile this list of volunteers who have made a meaningful contribution to your club, e.g. worked on committees, organized events, cooked for outings, did all the purchasing, phone committee or paperwork (not ones who sat in the corner and didn't get involved).  We would like to know who has been helping your for 3 years, 5 years, 10 years, 15 years, 20 years, 25 years, 30 years and 35 years!  

There are specialty awards (Awards of Merit) too like the Fire Honor, Silver Honor, Gold Honor or Order of the Golden Spruce.  To nominate someone for these awards, you must send a letter to the Provincial Chief Warden with 3 signatures supporting the nomination, or 3 separate letters.  For detailed descriptions of the awards, please refer to the Operations Manual or:       click here.

Though these awards are usually given out at the AGM in April, if there is a National Camp that year, the awards will be presented at the National Camp.  

We would like to have the list of all recipients completed by the end of April.  Please send me your lists as soon as possible including the name of the club, the recipient's name and years of service.  We want to make sure all our outstanding volunteers are recognized.

Thank you,
Terry Garrett
Chief Warden of Alberta
chief.warden.alberta@ajfwa.ca

July 20, 2020 Note:

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, National Camp is not be held.  The awards ceremony is tentatively being planned for the Fall Leadership Workshop, if held, or at a later date to be announced, depending, of course, on the progress of the pandemic.

Wednesday, January 01, 2020

2019 Jumping Pound Awards


Excerpts from presentations that took place on December 14, 2019 at the JFW Christmas Tree Lot.

December 14, 2019

Greetings to the Calgary Black Bears JFW Club!

We have gathered here to honor the 2019 recipient of our Jumping Pound Camp Volunteer Recognition award. This is our 10th year for this Annual Award.             

It is with great pleasure that we, the previous recipients, welcome Tim Watts to this rather exclusive club.

I have known Tim for about 17 years. He always struck me as a perky, somewhat leprechaun-ish, caring and highly skilled individual. He is also quite a traditionalist as you can see. He is also the only person I have ever seen walking about in a full suit of armour. Since joining JFW in 2011 and the Black Bears in 2013, he has made some very significant contributions to the organization at all levels. Regardless of his other fine endeavors, he has definitely made a large and ongoing commitment to the well-being of the only official JFW site in Alberta! Congratulations, Tim!

Brian McBride on behalf of the JP Camp Award Committee


I would like to use my words to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Tim Watts on becoming the newest member of the volunteer of the year club. This is a small but growing group of people that have had to pause on occasion and dust this very sculpture. The sculpture has graced a number of homes over the years. But this is more than a sculpture and a title. This is recognition of your hard work and sacrifice that hopefully will continue even after this incredible year of honor and hero worship has elapsed.


Now you may wonder how the decision is made to honor an individual at this time. Let me explain. There were 3 main points that had to be considered by the committee. The first point provides us with the pertinent information which gives bearing on the latter two points.  The second point is book ended by the first point and the last point.  The final point expands on the information so that we can make an informed decision. This raises the profile of the award winner above the other deserving candidates. This also serves to coalesce the vapour of human experience into a viable and logical comprehension. Clearly, this reinforces the other two points and things all come together.  I hope that I have set your mind at ease.

As you move forward from today, as you bask in the adoration of the common folk, know this one thing for certain. The work must go on, from “Can see” to well beyond “Can’t see”. And, always remember, the only guy who got his work done by Friday was Robinson Crusoe.

From all of us, a big resounding THANK YOU.  Let’s hear it for Tim Watts.

Kelly Hunt, 2019 Camp Award Presentation (edited for brevity)

Tuesday, June 11, 2019

2019 Peter Mehl Memorial Scholarships


The Alberta Junior Forest Warden Associationin cooperation with the Edmonton Community Foundationis happy to announce the:


2019 PETER MEHL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS

The annual Peter Mehl Memorial Scholarships are available to students enrolled in Forestry, Ecological or Environmental related programs who have been members, leaders or volunteers for a not for profit youth group.
 Application deadlineJuly 31, 2019  (must be received by that day)

Available scholarshipstwo $500 Scholarships 

Awarded by Scholarship Committee:   September 2019

Criteria:  

Applicants selected for the Peter Mehl Memorial Scholarship will best meet the following criteria:
  • Be resident of Canada.
  • Be accepted by a post-secondary institution in a faculty or program appropriate for entering career in natural resource management or outdoor related fields.
  • Have a strong academic record, supported by transcripts.
  • A record of commitment to a not for profit youth program.

More details:

For more details, visit the AJFWA website.

Don't miss out on this opportunity!





Wednesday, December 12, 2018

2018 Peter Mehl Memorial Scholarship recipients



In 2018 there were two recipients of the Peter Mehl Memorial Scholarship.


Brittney Walroth

Brittney Walroth
Brittney is finishing up a four year program of Wildlife & Fisheries at the University of Northern British Columbia. She is looking forward to a career as a Wildlife biologist.  Brittney has already been involved on a number of conservation and ecology research projects and studies.  She has also found time to be a leader of the UNBC Wildlife Society.

Brittney has a long history with JFW as a Warden as a long term member of the Airdrie Hawks JFW Club.

Education has been a prime motivator influenced by JFW.  She credits JFW with inspiring passion for conservation and that “nothing has brought me more joy than seeing the enthusiasm of children as they learn about ecology the value of wilderness and how to take care of it.”

Sophie Shepherd

Sophie Shepherd
Sophie is just starting out her post-secondary education seeking a Resource Compliance diploma at Lethbridge College. A career as a Conservation officer is her goal. 

Another Scholarship winner with deep JFW roots.  Sophie spent 12 years as a Warden and member of the Stettler Swift Fox. In JFW she valued learning about the environment and developed leadership skills. 

She has had the opportunity use and develop this education and skills through volunteering and travel to places like Ghana, Thailand and Costa Rica.

She credits the world travel and volunteering with Wild by Nature with giving her a greater appreciation the natural world and a chance to share her love of nature.

Sophie is excited begin her studies and a career in conservation and the environment.


Want to know more about this Scholarship? 


Visit the ajfwa.ca website










Friday, December 07, 2018

Jumping Pound Camp Volunteer of the Year - Scott Baker

submitted by Brian McBride

Kelly’s comments during the JP Camp Award for Scott Baker
at the CJFWS Tree Lot Presentation – Dec.1, 2018

Kelly Hunt is our long time Poet and Scribe for many JFW events in the Calgary District.




I would like to take this opportunity to recognise this year’s Volunteer of the Year for Man-up
Camp/Jumping Pound...Scott Baker. Mr. Baker has earned this award for his tireless efforts, steadfastness and willingness to forsake other enticements....to always go above and beyond and to constantly give of your time far beyond common sense. Or, as Brian McBride would put it, “Yeah, he does his share”.

Upon looking at the award itself, you will realise that you join a growing list of noted volunteers who answered the phone when they knew better. As the saying goes, “That which does not kill us can only make us stronger”. I’m not sure who said that but I’ll bet he’s dead!

Keeping Man-up going, sorry but it’s always gonna be Man-up. To keep it going requires endless toil and as you no doubt know, we amateur frontiersmen can only accomplish so much. And yet we have accomplished so much. Look at what the place has become! I know that my children will never forget their times there, the things they got to do, the friends that they made, skills they learned, adventures of being able to freely move around camp without having parents hovering over them.... safe in this place that so many of our people created. I can still recall the time when we were moving the cabins into place and my daughter turned to my wife and said, “I didn’t know that Dad knew words like that!” I was proud to say that many of them I learned for the first time on these projects. And we have learned, often the hard way. Bear in mind, while the great ship Titanic was designed and built by professionals,
Noah’s Arc was built entirely by amateurs. I think we all know which tale has the happier ending.

While this hand carved statue comes with great prestige and honour and deserves a special place in your home, it does also come with a degree of responsibility and respect for those who come before you. To that end, instructions for care and polishing are included. Or, you may wish to sign up for the Kelly’s Statue Care Excel Maintenance Program. For only $49.95 you get..........No? not the right time? Inappropriate? Okay.......

What IS important is that you be recognised for your substantial contributions to this important endeavour and realise that every bit moves us forward, no matter how small.
If you are someone who believes small things do not have an impact, then you have never had a mosquito in your tent!

While many people freely volunteer their opinion, you have gone far beyond volunteering your time and skills, and I think that I speak for all J.F.W. in that we look forward to exploiting you at every opportunity in the future. THANK YOU.



History of the Award

This carving was first presented for Best Camper of the Year  when JFW Summer Camps were at Jarvis Lake in what is now William Switzer Provincial Park, north of Hinton. 

Garry Nelson first in 1968.

The award was carved around 1967 by Paul Van Imshoot, a well-known artist originally from Belgium. He was with JFW in central Alberta in the 60s and 70s.

The award was used until about 1975 and then the history becomes unclear. The carving was found by Garry Nelson at Long Lake and returned to JFWs in 2009. It was restored and resurrected in 2010 for JFW’s 50th Anniversary, and is now our Volunteer Recognition Award for outstanding contributions to our Jumping Pound Camp.

The Baker family has shown very strong leadership and support within the Eagles Club since 2010. In addition, Scott Baker has provided strong ongoing support for our JP Camp. Over the last 8 years he has been involved with most of our camp projects, from building maintenance to firewood procurement. He has especially shone in tree removal. Taking down dead and dying trees is a tricky and dangerous task, at which he excels! Scott, you will be happy to know we have 5 more trees to take down in the near future.
(comments from other committee members) Kelly Hunt in particular!

It is with great pleasure that we, the previous recipients, welcome you into this rather exclusive club. Congrats and well done!

Sunday, November 18, 2018

Brian McBride steps aside as Assistant Chief Warden of Alberta

Brian McBride steps aside as 

Assistant Chief Warden of Alberta

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU BRIAN McBRIDE!!!!

Brian McBride passes the torch onto Cody Howitt 
It is very difficult to thank someone who has dedicated 35 years to the Alberta Junior Forest Warden Program.  Someone who has shared his vast knowledge with wardens, parents, leaders on an array of topics over the years. We all benefit from this shared information. 

Brian McBride also stepped up to become the Assistant Chief Warden, a position that he held for 11 years.  At the past Leaders Workshop he decided that the time had come to pass the gold maple leaves from his shirt and put them on Cody Howitt's, making Cody officially the Assistant Chief Warden.  There were a few tears shed over this gesture.  

Though Brian is stepping back from this position, we are sure that he will still be involved in his club, the Calgary District, AJFWA and his passion for the Jumping Pound camp.  

Thank you Mr. McBride !

Terry Garrett
Chief Warden of Alberta


Awards presented at this year's Fall Workshop

Awards presented at this year's Fall Workshop

Merry Brotherston received the Order of the Golden Spruce

Order of the Golden Spruce

    Alumni 

  • Merry Brotherston

Gold Honor

    Glory Hills Grey Wolves 

  • Amber Garrett
  • Andrew Garrett

35 year Award

   Calgary Eagles 

  • Brian McBride

Brian accepting his 35 year award - a single shot .410 shotgun

20 year Awards

    Airdrie Hawks 

  • Gary Thompson

    Calgary Bobcats 

  • John Stoodley 
  • T Stoodley

    Meadow Lake Woodlander

  • Audrey Marsh
  • Neil Marsh

    Smoky River Bears 

  • Dale Dupuis
  • Lucie Dupuis

15 year awards


    Airdrie Wolves 

  • Don Dixon
  • Debbie Pupato

    Alumni

  • Kirt Bennett

    Glory Hills Grey Wolves 

  • Rob Neider
  • Susie Neider

10 year awards

   Airdrie Hawks 

  • Norma Fixter
  • Dan Fixter
  • Dawn Friesen
  • Samantha Miller


    Calgary Eagles 

  • Allison Knoepfli
  • Hans-Peter Knoepfli

   Rocky Rams 

  • Carson Stewart
  • Donna Stewart

   St. Albert Sturgeons 


  • Cory Soetaert
  • Heather Soetaert

Big Shoe Award

Jim Ellison presented Brian McBride with the Big Shoe Award


Donation from Odd Fellows and Rebekahs

Once again we were fortunate to have a representative from the Odd Fellows join us for Saturday's activities and supper.  The Odd Fellows presented AJFWA a cheque for $5,000 as well as a donation from the Rebekahs for $2,050.  These groups generously donate to AJFWA as we are a great fit for their Living Legacy Program - a mandate to plant trees worldwide.

“Plant a tree who comes after me”

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Big Shoe Award Presented to Jim Ellison



Big Shoe Award Presented to Jim Ellison



It is awarded every year to someone who, by their commitment, dedication, energy and enthusiasm for Junior Forest Wardens have made a big, lasting and very positive mark – BIG SHOES to fill indeed.

I have a hard time with awards like this because obliviously my feet are big but not this big . . . and there are a lot of people out there that deserve this award. This CLUB is a group effort and everyone makes this organization run.

The Best way to sum up who I have decided to award is: “if you ask this person to do something: you never have to give it another thought, it will be done.

I would like Jim Ellison to please come join me.

Jim joined JFW in 1996 with 4 boys and a wonderful wife. He has been club coordinator, support leader, and treasurer. He sat on the Southern District as a chairperson and now is an Alumni. He has been the main stage builder for National camps over the years and joined the committee last National as site manager. As you all know he filled this position with an authoritative attitude and made everything run smooth.

At Leadership Fall Camps Jim has a record for selling the most Odd Fellow tickets. And on that note, Jim sold dozens of wool socks in +34 weather at National Camp.

To the man who fills the “BIG SHOE”

submitted by
Pat Wood
Stettler Swift Fox

Saturday, May 27, 2017

National Camp - Awards Night


Just a reminder that nominations for Special Awards will NOT be accepted at National Camp.  

Please submit your nominations to our Chief Warden at terry.garrett@ajfwa.ca before June 2.


Wednesday, April 05, 2017

Awards of Merit - types and process for nominations



To nominate a member for an award, send the information on the awards to Chief Warden of Alberta - Terry Garrett at terry.garrett@ajfwa.ca



Fire Honour

Awarded to Wardens for significant fire suppression, detection or action where protection of property or our forest environment is at risk. A badge is presented for the recipient's uniform along with a personal congratulatory letter from Alberta’s Chief Warden.

If someone wishes to acknowledge a Warden, a letter explaining the circumstances must be sent to the AJFWA. The Alberta Chief Warden will determine if the Warden is eligible to receive the badge. An adult leader may display a Fire Honour Badge if they were awarded it as a Warden.



Gold Honour

This highest award in the organization for a Warden is awarded for continuous and outstanding service to the club and Junior Forest Warden organization. The length of service may be a consideration. It may also be awarded for heroism and valour. A badge is presented for the recipient's uniform. A certificate and a personal congratulatory letter from the Chief Warden of Canada or Alberta Chief Warden also accompany this award.

To recommend a Warden for the Gold Honour, the Warden's contributions are outlined in a letter composed and signed by the Club Coordinator, Club Leader(s) and Adult Council and sent to the AJFWA. The Chief Warden of Canada or Alberta Chief Warden will determine if the Warden is eligible to receive the award.



Silver Honour

This second highest award in the organization for a Warden is awarded for meritorious and commendable service to the club and Junior Forest Warden organization. The length of service may be a consideration. A badge is presented for the recipient's uniform. A certificate and a personal congratulatory letter from the Chief Warden of Canada or Alberta Chief Warden also accompany this award.

To recommend a Warden for the Silver Honour, the Wardens contributions are outlined in a letter composed and signed by the Club Coordinator, Club Leader(s) and Adult Council and sent to the AJFWA. The Chief Warden of Canada or Alberta Chief Warden will determine if the warden is eligible to receive the award.



Order of the Golden Spruce Award

The Order of the Golden Spruce Award is the highest recognition a volunteer can receive in the Junior Forest Warden Program. It is to honour dedicated volunteers, adult leaders and life-long supporters of the organization. An oval-shaped pin and a gold and green certificate are presented. A personal congratulatory letter from the Chief Warden of Canada and/or Alberta’s Chief Warden accompanies this award.

To recommend a person for this award, three active adult members of the Junior Forest Warden organization must recommend recipients in a letter to the AJFWA. The Chief Warden of Canada and/or Alberta Chief Warden will determine if the Warden is eligible to receive the award.



NOTE:

  • If a person was a Junior Forest Warden and is now a Leader or Life-Long Supporter of the Program he/she may be recommended for the "Gold or Silver Honour Award" but not "The Order of the Golden Spruce".
  • If a person was a Junior Forest Warden at any time they cannot receive the "Order of the Golden Spruce".
  • If a Volunteer was never a Junior Forest Warden, they cannot receive the "Gold or Silver Honour Award".

Thursday, March 02, 2017

JFW Challenger Graduation

Graduating from High School in 2017? Please read on....


Graduation Eligibility: All Challengers (or Junior Leaders as in BC) who will be finishing their Warden career this year by either having completed 3 years as a Challenger, or are turning 19 years old prior to fall registration are eligible to apply. The applicants must be registered with a ‘Club in Good Standing’.

  • Wardens who have completed 3 years of the Challenger program are eligible for the Full Graduation Package.
  • Wardens who have completed less than 3 years in the Challenger program are eligible for the Recognition Package only.


Full Graduation Package:  AJFWA Gift, AJFWA Dog Tags, Letter of Congratulations from the Chief Warden, recognition at the AC Conference, recognition in Tree Mail, photo & write up posted on the AJFWA website in the ‘Grad Gallery’.


Recognition Package:  AJFWA Dog Tags & Letter of Congratulations from the Chief Warden.   Recognition at the AC Conference, recognition in Tree Mail, photo & write up posted in the ‘Grad Gallery’ on the AJFWA website.  Does not include AJFWA gift.


This application form is to be completed & signed by the graduate and returned to the Grad Committee before the deadline indicated on the application. Graduate’s Club Coordinator to provide comments & sign the graduate’s application form as well

Get the application form here.   


Deadline to apply: March 16