Langlois among Jr. Citizens

The final recipients of the 2006 Ontario Junior Citizen of the Year Awards represent the diverse and talented offerings of the province's youth who are contributing to make their communities better places to live. It is their leadership and abilities, and their willingness to go far and beyond their own needs and wants that sets them apart.

The Ontario Junior Citizens program is run through the 302 members of the Ontario Community Newspapers Association (OCNA) with the support of major sponsors Tembec Inc. and TD Canada Trust. Nominations of eligible young people are received each fall through member community papers committed to recognizing outstanding young people who help define and strengthen their communities.

This year, 138 nominees were recognized with certificates of nomination by their local community newspapers across the province for contributions. The final 12 individuals and one group come from small towns and urban centres, offering a myriad of exemplary qualities and proving themselves as great inspirations to people of all ages.

The young people will be honoured during a special awards ceremony Saturday, March 31, during the OCNA annual spring convention. Ontario's Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable James Bartleman, will officiate at the presentations for the junior citizens and their families.

Zachary Langlois, 16, of Caledon was one of the recipients. Zachary has taken his passion for music and sports into his community by giving back to those who want to participate in those activities but have difficulty. He has been a Saturday morning volunteer with the Brampton Special Needs hockey program as a manager and running practices for three years working with kids who otherwise might not be able to play hockey with their peers. A gifted musician, he offered free violin lessons to an eightyear old girl who was unable to afford lessons any other way. He is also an active member of the Mayor's Youth Council in Caledon.

To qualify to be an Ontario Junior Citizen, candidates must be Ontario residents between the ages of six and 17 (in the year of nomination). The nominees may be involved in worthwhile community service; special young people who are contributing while living with a physical or psychological limitation; or individuals who have performed acts of heroism or bravery. Award recipients may also be good kids who show a commitment to make life better for others and do more than is normally expected of someone their age.