NEWS RELEASE
EMPOWER SIMCOE
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The 2023-2024 Gift of the Heart Awards were presented during Empower Simcoe’s 71st annual general meeting on Sept. 11.
“The Gift of the Heart Awards recognize extraordinary individuals and organizations who have impacted the lives of the people and families supported by Empower Simcoe and our employees through their exceptional commitment and service,” says Empower Simcoe CEO Dr. Claudine Cousins. “We’re so very grateful for their contributions that have been essential in advancing our mission of empowering people to lead a meaningful and inclusive life.”
The 2023-2024 Empower Simcoe Gift of the Heart recipients are:
David Whyne (volunteer) — for his exceptional volunteerism, sharing his musical talent at Empower Simcoe Foundation fundraising events.
Kevin Berry (family) — for promoting collaboration, advocacy and inclusion on behalf of families supported by Empower Simcoe.
Sharlene Fountain (self-advocate) — for her unwavering dedication to inclusion and advocacy for the rights of people of all abilities as a member of the Empower Simcoe Believe in Yourself committee.
Cortney Moreau (employee) — for going above and beyond in her work as a community support worker, positively impacting the lives of the people and families supported by Empower Simcoe.
Barrie Kempettes Gymnastics Club (community partner of the year, Barrie) — for its commitment and dedication as an inclusive employer for people of all abilities in our community.
The Sharing Place Food Centre (community partner of the year, Orillia) — for its support of Empower Simcoe’s employment, and transitions programs, ensuring people of all abilities can gain life skills and work experience through volunteer work.
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