Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Kelvin Goertzen has announced that nominations are now open for the Manitoba Council on Aging Recognition Awards that specifically celebrate seniors, journalists and intergenerational groups for their extraordinary commitment to their communities.

“Manitoba seniors continue to contribute to their communities in meaningful ways”, said Goertzen. “Acknowledging this ongoing volunteerism, service, mentorship, leadership, community influence and advocacy make Manitoba a place in which we all are proud to live.”

The intergenerational group category features Manitobans of different generations collaborating to address community needs.

“This is a key factor in age-friendly communities,” said Dave Schellenberg, chairperson, Manitoba Council on Aging. “The whole community benefits when we work together to address common concerns.”

The awards also celebrate journalists who promote positive images of aging. The minister noted this award emphasizes how the positive and relevant portrayal of seniors promotes intergenerational understanding and helps Manitobans of all ages.

The Manitoba Council on Aging was created in 1980 as an advisory body to government to ensure seniors’ perspectives are reflected in government programs and policies. In 1996, the Manitoba Council on Aging Recognition Awards were created to recognize the many seniors who are leaders in their communities and to celebrate their contributions.

The call for nominations is open until Tuesday, Sept. 13. Nomination forms and more information on the Manitoba Council on Aging Recognition Awards are available by calling the Seniors Information Line at 204-945-6565 in Winnipeg, 1-800-665-6565 (toll-free), or by emailing seniors@gov.mb.ca.

More information is available online.