Media Contact:
Maureen Alley, communications director
608-513-3962
malley@wisconsinyouthcompany.org
Employee’s Dedication to Youth Recognized by Industry, Peers
Rita Chelmo recognized for Outstanding Youth Worker Award
Madison, Wisconsin (Wednesday, August 23, 2023) — Madison Out-Of-School Time recognizes Wisconsin Youth Company’s Middle School U Coordinator, Rita Chelmo, for its annual Outstanding Youth Worker Award. Chelmo and 11 other Madison-area youth workers will be presented with the award at MOST’s Outstanding Youth Worker Award Reception. Chelmo was nominated by her peers and colleagues, and chosen through a selection process that included a panel of youth in the Madison area.
“Rita has been a valuable member of both the school year and summer teams for many years, and continues to show her dedication to youth programming in all that she does. Rita is gifted at crafting programs that cater to youth of many ages,” says Nate Peterson, summer program director, Wisconsin Youth Company.
Chelmo joined Wisconsin Youth Company in 2019 as the Middle School U program coordinator. She primarily works with elementary-aged children during the school year and spends the summers as the lead staff person for the Middle School U program designed for youth entering grades 6-9.
“Rita works hard to ensure fun and enriching programs for the middle schoolers who attend her programs, which is doubly important given that age group is often overlooked in terms of youth enrichment activities,” Peterson adds.
Chelmo has worked with youth in various aspects since 2008, ranging from teaching overseas to tutoring and volunteering with local organizations.
“I am thankful to be recognized by my colleagues and honored to be grouped with so many amazing movers and shakers in this field,” Chelmo adds.
The award reception takes place the afternoon of MOST’s annual conference at Madison Youth Arts Center, Wednesday, August 30.
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