Shawna Benson

Shawna Benson grew up in Endiang Alberta, where her father was the self-proclaimed mayor and the population has always hovered around 35 people (and dogs).  She left Endiang for bigger and better things by attending the University of Lethbridge and getting a degree in Canadian Studies.  Now working at the County of Stettler as the Communications Director; her journey has just begun.  In between the educating and making a living, Ms. Benson has been involved with advocating for youth and rural communities on the National Rural Youth Network Council, the Alberta Rural Youth Council, the Rural Development Strategy Task Force, the Prime Minister Advisory Council for the New Deal for Cities and Communities, and mentoring many communities in the quest to involve youth.  In her spare time, (there isn’t much left!) she runs her own wedding photography business and is the Vice President of her local Junior Hockey Team. She plays baseball and enjoys golf and curling.  On a personal note, she loves hanging in Stettler with her new husband, Darren.

Presentation (no presentation available):
Age Friendly Communities

Shawna Benson is an avid volunteer, advocate for youth and passionate about rural and community development, but most of all – she’s a millennial. The large, somewhat baffling generation that is better known as the “youth”.  There is much to learn about this generation and how to engage them in your communities.  Ms. Benson will offer insight into this generation and how its members “tick” while exploring how you can involve them in meaningful ways to better your community now and the most important part of all – succession plan for the future of your community. Successes and challenges encountered along the way will be shared in this interactive session.