The Five Trails Rotary Club has agreed to fund and host the annual Bob Forrister Youth Award, given to members of the community who work serve local youth.

"We want to recognize people who work behind the scenes, under the radar so to speak," said Fred Dyer, president of the Youth Crisis Center's board of trustees.

In past years, the award, banquet and festivities have been funded by an anonymous donor, who has since passed away.

"When we were asked to fill this void for recognizing behind the scenes people, we immediately answered, 'Yes,' as Rotarians are behind the scenes people," said Nancy Doelger, past president and member of the Board of Directors of Five Trails Rotary Club.

The Five Trails Rotary Club currently serves the community through the Read-To-Me Program, the Four Way Test to elementary children, the Russian Law Student Program and other local projects.

Since 1985, the YCC board of trustees has awarded the Bob Forrister Youth Award to members of the community for contributing to the mental and physical well-being of youth.

"There's really no set criteria other than service to youth," Dyer said.

Past recipients of the award include the Five Trails Rotary Club, Ann Rochelle, Susie McMurry, Nancy Granum and Duane and Marlene McLain.

The award honors R.M. "Bob" Forrister, a retired district court judge who dedicated his career to handling juvenile cases.

Nominations are received from the community at large and participants are awarded with a plaque that is displayed in the entrance of the Hemry Home.

Forward a name

To nominate an individual or organization for the Bob Forrister Youth Award:

* Send a letter of nomination to the attention of "Bob Forrister Youth Award," 915 S. McKinley St., Casper, 82601

* Or fax the letter to (307) 577-5718

* Deadline is July 28.

* Award ceremony will take place Sept. 11.

Reach reporter Riane Menardi at (307) 266-0610 or riane.menardi@trib.com