Do you know a special kid?
Probably. Most people seem to know some young person who stands out in the crowd, but very rarely do they take time to issue words of encouragement or let that child know how special they are.
Well, here’s your chance.
Once again, nominees are being sought for the Ontario Junior Citizen of the Year awards.
“It’s a way to recognize the good things the youth of our province do,” said Linda Plumridge, co-owner of the Times and a member of the Ontario Community Newspapers Association’s board of directors.
The award is for youth aged six-17 who stand out in the crowd.
They may be involved in worthwhile community services, be special young people who contribute to their community while living with a physical or psychological limitation, or be individuals who have performed acts of heroism or bravery.
“There is a wide variety of kids this applies to,” Plumridge said. “They give of themselves. The go out of their way to be contributing members of the community.
“Quite often the people who are most deserving of these awards are not in the limelight, not the star athlete. But they contribute to the community and are good citizens,” she stressed.
The award is handed out to 12 individuals and one group each year. The winners are invited to an awards banquet in Toronto, receive a plaque and picture with the Lieutenant Governor, and get $200 cash.
But the program isn’t just about winning the plaques. Plumridge explained why the OCNA runs it.
“So often the media is accused of reporting the bad news,” she said. “It’s a nice program to recognize these ‘good kids.’”
Even if they don’t win, the nomination process is a way of recognizing the kids’ hard work and encourages them to keep it up.
“We have more people who have been nominated from this area and have not won, but it doesn’t make it any less significant,” she said.
“We want people to think about the young people they know and if they might be deserving of [nomination],” Plumridge added.
“People know Fort Frances as a caring community. We want to recognize that,” she continued. “Look around and see if there’s someone worth recognition.
“It doesn’t matter if they don’t win,” she concluded. “We can recognize those in our own community.”
The deadline for nominations is Nov. 30. Nomination forms can be picked up at any OCNA member newspaper office, including the Fort Frances Times, or online at www.ocna.org
Fort Frances Times
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