Nominations Called for Seniors of Distinction

The Provincial Government is now accepting nominations for its 2010 Seniors of Distinction Awards program, which is designated to promote and recognize seniors for the valuable contributions they make to society.

"Our goal with the Seniors of Distinction Awards program is to build greater appreciation for the many ways in which seniors have contributed and continue to contribute to their communities and society," said the Honourable Jerome Kennedy, Minister of Health and Community Services and Minister Responsible for Aging and Seniors. "This initiative is part of our government's overall objective to make Newfoundland and Labrador an age-friendly province."

To be eligible for the awards, a senior must be nominated by an individual or group, must be 50 years of age or older, and be a current or past resident of Newfoundland and Labrador. Seniors will be considered for both voluntary and paid work and nominations from last year will be reviewed again this year at the request of the nominee. Posthumous awards may also be given.

"Last year's awards program garnered a significant amount of interest with seniors nominated from 64 different communities across the province," said Minister Kennedy. "We encourage residents in our province to nominate someone again this year who they believe has enriched the lives of others."

Award recipients recognized in 2009 for their lifelong contributions and achievements include, G. Fred G. Bannister, Mount Pearl; Rita Mary Drake, Conception Bay South; Marie Norcott, Clarenville; Eric Norman (awarded posthumously), Gander; and Minnie Vallis, Meadows.

A copy of the guidelines and nomination forms can be obtained by visiting www.gov.nl.ca/health or by calling 1-888-494-2266. The deadline for nominations is May 14, 2010. A selection committee will review the nominations and provide recommendations to the minister. The Seniors of Distinction Awards Ceremony will take place during Seniors Month in June to announce and honour five award recipients.

The Seniors of Distinction Awards is an initiative of the Provincial Healthy Aging Policy Framework launched in 2007. The framework outlines six priority directions together with a series of goals and actions to create an age-friendly province which supports seniors and recognizes their diversity and valuable contributions.

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Media contact:
Jennifer Tulk
Communications Manager
Department of Health and Community Services
709-729-1399, 699-6524
JenniferTulk@gov.nl.ca 

2010 03 18                                                    9:40 a.m.