Nominations Invited for 2018 Seniors of Distinction Awards

Nominations are being sought for the 9th annual 2018 Newfoundland and Labrador Seniors of Distinction Awards.

The awards recognize and celebrate the contributions, achievements and diversity of seniors across Newfoundland and Labrador. “Seniors play such an important role in our society. Through the Seniors of Distinction Awards we celebrate their knowledge, contributions to the community and lifetime of accomplishments,” Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors chair Linda Oldford stated in a news release Wednesday. “If you know of someone who should be recognized as a senior of distinction, then consider nominating them for this award.”

The awards are an initiative of the Provincial Healthy Aging Policy that supports the government’s enhanced focus on seniors, including helping ensure they remain healthy, active, engaged citizens — living in their own homes — and active in their own, age-friendly communities for as long as possible.

To be eligible, a senior must be nominated by an individual or group, be 50 years of age or older, and be a current or past resident of Newfoundland and Labrador. Nominees will be considered for both volunteer 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.

“People are living longer, living healthier and contributing to their communities, families and work lives for longer periods than in previous generations,” Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development Lisa Dempster stated in a news release Wednesday.

“The tremendous knowledge, skills and experience of our seniors have helped shape this province. Through the Seniors of Distinction Awards program we have an opportunity to recognize and thank them for the positive difference they made in their communities.”

For more information and to download an application, go online to www.cssd.gov.nl.ca/seniors/sda/.

The deadline for submissions is April 13.