Centennial Collegiate is one of two Saskatoon Public Schools’ collegiates recognized for their philanthropic and volunteer commitment to local charitable organizations.

The school received the Youth in Philanthropy Award during the 2015 National Philanthropy Day luncheon held Nov. 13.

Centennial was recognized for its support of the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan through its annual Centennial Charger Charity Classic Basketball Tournament that has raised closed to $15,000 for the foundation since 2010.

“The intent was to create a unique basketball tournament environment that brought together some of the best competition from around the province – both big cities and small cities,” explained Kory Dawe, coach of the senior boys’ basketball team and one of the tournament organizers.

“Ultimately, we wanted to do something truly unique in our community and that meant more than just basketball. There are two significant charity groups that our school has worked with since the doors opened in 2006: holiday family hampers and the Children’s Hospital Foundation. It made logical sense to incorporate these charities into the tournament focus and the C4 has become one-of-a kind with its charity-driven purpose.”

According to the award event’s program, “encouraging a culture of philanthropy at Centennial Collegiate empowers students to take an active role in changing lives, giving them the skills and resources they need to make a difference in their community.”

Dawe, along with Kylie Philips and Autumn Dawe-Baillie, two 2015 graduates of Centennial Collegiate who played big roles in organizing the tournament, accepted the award on behalf of the school.

Also picking up an award at the event was Nutana Collegiate, which received an Honoured Supporter Award. The work of Nutana students in the Tourism 30 course supports the Heart and Stroke Foundation and other organizations through the volunteerism and leadership aspects of the course.