CDSS Inspiration Awards

In her nomination letter, Michelle Szott, a lifelong community friend, explained that after Teresa graduated from high school with her diploma, she decided to continue her education at McEwan University. Through hard work and perseverance, she graduated with an Early Learning and Child Care modified diploma in 2016.

“Teresa is truly a role model for younger children who have Down syndrome,” Michelle wrote.

Teresa has also contributed over 425 volunteer hours at Fort Edmonton and countless others with the Strathcona County Library.

“Teresa’s confidence will ensure her success for whatever path she chooses in her life,” said Judy Glenn, Volunteer Supervisor at Fort Edmonton. Beth Kuban from the Strathcona County Library also nominated Teresa.

Laura is one of two winners of the Inspiration Awards, announced on World Down Syndrome Day (March 21, 2017). The Inspiration Award aims to celebrate the community’s “unsung heroes” and to show the range that ‘See The Ability’ can encompass. As an Inspiration Award winner, Laura will receive a $500 bursary.

“Speaking as a parent of a four-year-old boy with Down syndrome, it is inspiring for me to meet people like Laura. She reminds us what is possible, instead of focusing on what is challenging,” wrote Jennifer Crowson, President of the Down Syndrome Association of Hamilton (DSAH). “She shows us the power of education and how with the right supports, everyone can succeed.”

“She will be triumphant in all that she sets her mind to because she believes in the power of her own ability,” wrote Ingrid Muschta, Communications Director at DSAH. Laura was nominated by Jennifer and Ingrid.

Prize

$500 Bursary for tuition, a special project, donation back to the community

Selection

The Inspiration awards will be chosen by a committee of CDSS leaders – members of VATTA (the VATTA Chair and Vice Chair), members of the CDSS Board of Directors Advocacy Committee, and members of the CDSS Staff.

Rules

• These awards are for people with Down syndrome.
• Entrants must be nominated – no self-nominations will be accepted. Parents and immediate family can nominate
• Nominees must live in Canada.
• Nominees are not required to be members of the Canadian Down Syndrome Society.
• Nominees must not be a full or part-time paid staff member, board member, or committee member (for example, VATTA, or the Conference Committee) of the Canadian Down Syndrome Society.
• Past winners of the Canadian Down Syndrome Heroes are ineligible to receive this award. Past winners of the Canadian Down Syndrome Society’s Self-Advocate of the Year Award are ineligible to receive this award. Past winners of the CDSS Awards are ineligible to receive this award again.
• Previous winners of the Canadian Down Syndrome Heroes – Honourable Mentions and Canadian Down Syndrome Heroes – The Super Six are still eligible to enter.

How to Nominate Someone

• One (1) letter by the primary nominator on why the nominee deserves recognition (600 words MAXIMUM per letter).
• One (1) to two (2) reference letters by someone other than the nominator (600 words MAXIMUM per letter).
• Specify that the nomination is for the Inspiration Awards in your letter. CDSS has the option to grant a worthy recipient either award.
• To ensure a successful nomination, please refer to the award requirements.

Please submit your nomination letters – one letter by the primary nominator, one to two letters by people other than the primary nominator – by the deadline February 15, 2017.

We accept nominations via Email or Mail.

Email:
info@cdss.ca
Subject: CDSS Awards 2017

Mail:
Inspiration Awards
Canadian Down Syndrome Society
Suite 103 – 2003 14 Street NW
Calgary, AB T2M 3N4