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Gateway and Nick’s Place are excited to announce the winners of the 2024 Lion Heart Awards, which honor extraordinary individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to youth and the broader community. These awards honor unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often without recognition, to make a positive impact on young people’s lives.

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Nick’s Place For Us recently relocated to the vibrant Northgate Shopping Center, marking a major milestone in its mission to create a supportive environment for youth through community-focused initiatives and programs. This move has provided greater accessibility and visibility, allowing Nick’s Place to continue to expand its reach. The Lion Heart Awards are an important part of this mission, recognizing individuals whose efforts often go unnoticed by larger, more established awards.

The inspiration behind Nick’s Place For Us and the Lion Heart Awards comes from the legacy of Nicholas, whose life was tragically cut short by murder. Despite his battle with drug addiction and mental health issues that began in early childhood, Nicholas was known for his big heart and deep care for those around him. While his struggles often overshadowed his legacy, those who knew him remember Nicholas for his compassion and potential. The Lion Heart Awards aim to honor individuals who, like Nicholas, make profound but often unnoticed contributions to their communities.

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Winners of the Lion Heart Awards 2024:

Youth Leadership Award – Jorja Dugas (Noah Strong)

Mentorship Excellence Award – Aimee Lafrance (West Nipissing Dreamcatchers)

Award for innovative youth programs – Allison Green (Tartan Theater)

Community Leadership Award – First Team 1305 Robotics

Award for Outstanding Achievement in Education – Albina Lavictoire (Nibissing Secondary School)

Overall prize winner – to be announced

The Lion Heart Awards ceremony will take place on August 23, 2024, 6 p.m. in our newly refurbished premises at Northgate Shopping Centre. This event is open to the public and we invite everyone to join us in honouring these outstanding members of the community. The ceremony will tell stories of the winners’ contributions and highlight the significant impact they have had on the lives of youth and the wider community.

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The Lion Heart Awards, presented by Gateway & Nick’s Place, were created to honor and celebrate the unsung heroes of our community who work tirelessly with youth. Inspired by Nicholas’ legacy, these awards recognize the extraordinary efforts of individuals and organizations who make a positive impact and inspire others to contribute to a stronger, more supportive community for our youth.

Join us on August 23rd to celebrate the achievements of those who truly embody the Lionheart spirit.

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