The first rewards children who have contributed directly to the improvement of their own local environments. The second involves 1,000 children aged 11 to 14 projecting their lives forward by 20 years, and proposing plans for developments they consider most important for their lives and for those of their children. The Society operates the city's blue plaque scheme, normally erecting two each year to former eminent citizens. As of 2017, there are 106 plaques around the city. In 2005 the society adopted a new constitution retaining the spirit of its original objectives, but reflecting the current needs and aspirations of the city and in 2008 the society became the first civic society in the United Kingdom to receive a grant of arms which included a coat of arms and Crest for the sole use of the society and its Officers and a badge to be worn by members. Awards The Society makes a number of awards each year in recognition of contributions to the city. These are: The Forward Prize is awarded to a project or activity which has enhanced the life of the citizens of Birmingham. Previous recipients are: The Gold Medal is awarded occasionally to an individual who has made an outstanding personal contribution to some aspect of the life and development of the city. Previous recipients are: (i.e. Geraldine Cadbury) Silver Medal acknowledges long and dedicated service to the society by its members The Renaissance Award was instituted in 2005 to recognise restoration projects of outstanding merit. Previous recipients are: The William Haywood Prize was instituted in the society's centenary year, 2018, to recognise exceptional work in architecture or urban planning in the city. The first award will be made in 2019. See also Civic society References Further reading The Work of The Birmingham Civic Society 1918–34, William Haywood, Published by Kynoch Press 1934 The Work of The Birmingham Civic Society 1918–46, William Haywood, Published by Kynoch Press 1946 A Birmingham Treasure Chest, Tudor Edwards, Published by The Birmingham Civic Society 1955 External links The Birmingham Civic Society 1918 establishments in England Charities based in Birmingham, West Midlands Clubs and societies in the West Midlands (county) Culture in Birmingham, West Midlands Heritage organisations in England History of Birmingham, West Midlands Organisations based in Birmingham, West Midlands Civic societies in the United Kingdom