(Edmonton) Ryan Beck's work in the community has not gone unnoticed. His participation in a unique project has resulted in multiple avenues of support, including the Edmonton Awesome Award, the Dean of Students Engagement Grant and an Alberta Public Interest Research grant.
In an independent study course called Participatory Drama with iHuman Youth, the education student takes classroom-based theory and combines it with heart to serve Edmonton's youth at risk. Working closely with the iHuman Youth Society, a non-profit organization that helps Edmonton youth at risk through the arts, Beck provides an avenue for youth to communicate their life experiences through drama.
"Ryan is committed to using his drama education expertise for making a difference in the lives of marginalized youth and for community development," says Diane Conrad, the education professor who oversees his community based work for the course. "The project combines theory, practice and community action."