29 Sep Congratulating the 2022-2023 Gift of the Heart Award Recipients

The 2022-2023 Gift of the Heart Awards were handed out during Empower Simcoe’s 70th Annual General Meeting on September 20th.

“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 2022-2023 Empower Simcoe Gift of the Heart Recipients are (photos below):

Amber Gazso (Volunteer) – for her exceptional volunteer commitment and service to the people supported at Empower Simcoe’s O’Brien House.

Claire May (Family) – for exemplifying mutual care, respect and love as a Family Home Provider in Empower Simcoe’s Family Home Program and supporting people to live the quality of life she believes every person should experience regardless of ability, health status, or complexity of needs.

Melissa Swales (Self-Advocate) – for her leadership, and dedication to inclusion and championing the rights of people of all abilities as a member of Empower Simcoe’s Believe in Yourself Committee.

Kacey Noble (Employee) – for going above and beyond in her work as Empower Simcoe Family Support Worker and impacting the lives of children and youth with disabilities through Challenger Baseball.

Optimist Club of Barrie (Community Partner of the Year) – for sponsoring free summer bowling for children and youth supported by Empower Simcoe’s Family Support Services program

Superior Home Health Care (Community Partner of the Year) – for its dedicated support of Empower Simcoe’s Celebrating Community Champions Fashion Show, and annual golf tournament.