Algoma Public Health's putting out the call for "Public Health Champions" - with a special focus.
Saying it wants to celebrate people and organizations "who make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children and families across the Algoma District", the health unit says it's accepting nominations for the annual Public Health Champion Award, specifically looking for those who are "support healthy child development in the earliest years of life (ages 0-6)", as "these early years lay the foundation for lifelong health.
There are four categories this year: Parent/Caregiver Champion, which includes parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings, and those "bonus caregivers" who go above and beyond for young children; Professional Champion, for educators, healthcare workers, and service providers who make a lasting impact on young children; Youth/Student Champion, for those 24 and younger who support early years programs, volunteer with community initiatives, or mentor younger children through play, creativity, and learning; and Organization Champion, for programs, agencies, and community groups that help young children and their families thrive.
Now open, nominations close January 21st - details on nominating can be found on the A-P-H website.