Mississippi Mills Community Fund

Noreen Young Award for the Arts

The Noreen Young Award for the Arts celebrates the life and legacy of Noreen Young, OC (1939–2025)—a visionary puppeteer, television creator, and noted Almonte resident.

Her whimsical characters, seen on Under the Umbrella Tree and beyond, shaped Canadian childhoods, while her founding of the Puppets Up! festival brought international acclaim to her hometown. For decades, Noreen continued to make an impact, dedicating time as a volunteer and mentor.

This $1,000 award supports a Mississippi Mills student pursuing post-secondary education in the arts (puppetry, visual, media, performing, or related artistic endeavours).

Applicants must have their primary residence in Mississippi Mills and have been accepted into a post-secondary art program. Explain why you think you would be a good candidate for the award and describe any applicable extracurricular or community involvement. You can optionally attach a portfolio and/or letters of reference to help build your application.

Selection, based on the established criteria, will be made by a committee established by the Mississippi Mills Community Fund, in partnership with Puppets Up! The award will be announced at the successful applicant’s local high school commencement ceremony.

Please complete the form below to apply. Application is open from May 15–31. 

Questions? Send us an email at  mmcommunityfund@gmail.com.