May 25th saw the RNL Annual Awards Banquet hosted at Grand Falls Golf Club at Grand Falls-Windsor.
“These awards recognise the contributions of professionals, community groups, volunteers, and service groups who improve recreation in Newfoundland and Labrador. It is an honour to celebrate those individuals and their contributions. Without such hardworking folks, we wouldn’t be able to engage our communities like we do. Or help our fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians live healthy and active lifestyles.”
– Gerry Hall, President of Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador, RNL
6 awards were presented to recipients, chosen from amongst numerous nominees.
The Bridging the Gap award recognizes an individual, group, program or facility that has furthered the inclusion of people with disabilities in the area of recreation, sport and active living and was awarded to the Newfoundland and Labrador Shooting Association.
The Active Communities Award acknowledges the achievements of communities that have worked to identify and create facilities, open spaces and opportunities for people to be active and engaged in their communities. The Town of Pasadena took the award home.
The Teen Challenge Youth Leadership Award recognises young leaders who are driving change towards a more active lifestyle, inspiring and motivating their peer’s involvement in physical activity. The award was given to Madison Collins of Gander, Newfoundland.
The Cy Hoskins Memorial Award of Merit honours a volunteer for outstanding efforts and invaluable contributions to the development of recreation, presented to Sean McKenna from Mount Pearl, Newfoundland.
The Volunteer of the Year Award celebrates a volunteer for outstanding efforts and invaluable contributions to the development of recreation. Janet Budden, from the Town of Roddickton-Bide Arm was recognised in this category.
The Volunteer Group of the Year is given to a volunteer group in honour of their outstanding efforts and invaluable contributions to the development of recreation. The Torbay Lions Club won the award.