The City of Sarnia is recognizing several members of the community for helping to create a more accessible and inclusive place to live.
The 12th annual accessibility awards were presented at a ceremony this week.
Sarnia Accessibility Advisory Committee (SAAC) Chair Debbie Draganits said it's important to those who do great work locally to assist people with disabilities.
"The awards serve as more than an effort to recognize the outstanding contributions of community members toward inclusivity and accessibility, they are a call to action, a chance to encourage others to take action, advocate and assist in creating a truly accessible Sarnia," said Draganits.
Sydney Vrolyk is the recipient of the Kevin Schenk Legacy Award.
She died on September 21, 2024, just days after her 25th birthday from Post Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder.
Sydney had received a new heart from an anonymous donor in late May after being diagnosed with cardiomyopathy in 2022.
Sydney, who lived with Down Syndrome, co-founded the Snacks for Summer fundraiser with her sisters. She was also a coach and athlete with Sarnia Special Olympics and a dedicated community volunteer.
Her mother, Helen Van Sligtenhorst said she's grateful for the recognition as Sydney loved giving back to her community.
"Everyday she looked forward to every activity that she did. She did so willingly and she did so joyfully," said Van Sligtenhorst. "Everyday it was an adventure for her and she was just so happy to be out and visible in the community."
Van Sligtenhorst said it's a bittersweet moment for the family.
"We are very honoured and touched that the community has rallied behind our family when Sydney was going through a heart transplant," she said. "We're happy they still remember her and honour her and respect who she was and are now giving her this legacy with this award."
Van Sligtenhorst said Sydney also worked as a page at the Clearwater Library, and staff there planted a tree in the nearby memorial woodlot in her memory.
A list of the other winners is posted below.
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Prelude to Excellence for a Large Business Award
This award recognizes businesses with 50 or more employees that create inclusive environments.
This year’s award recognizes Park Lane Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC.
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Prelude to Excellence for a Small Business Award
This award recognizes businesses with less than 50 employees that create inclusive environments.
This year’s award recognizes Anita’s Cleaning Service.
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Creating Opportunities for an Accessible Community Award
This award recognizes groups and/or individuals that provide community leadership in inclusive programming for individuals with disabilities.
This year’s award recognizes Vibe Community Connections.
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Outstanding Service in a Social Service Sector Award
This award recognizes those who go above and beyond to serve people with disabilities in the social service sector.
This could include built environment, customer service, employment, or any effort to enhance inclusivity and accessibility.
This year’s award recognizes Special Olympics Sarnia.