MP Gary Anandasangaree recently presented Lakshmi Anandaraj with a youth award for her contribution to the community. Lakshmi began volunteering in junior high school, organizing fundraisers as part of the Me to We club. As an accomplished violin player, she is currently part of the Honour Strings Program in her high school where she also serves as performing arts representative. Whether she is helping younger players improve their violin skills, encouraging young children learn how to swim or volunteering at community summer camps, Lakshmi always finds time to help.
Jake Forsyth was also honoured with an award by our MP for being very active in the community. As well as helping at various local events, Jake is also a 2nd Highland Creek Scout leader and is the council commissioner for the Greater Toronto Council. Never one to sit idle, Jake has been a support camp counselor, volunteer leader and also recently traveled to Vimy to plant trees to honour WWI Canadian soldiers. Jake sits on the committees of many community and resident organizations and also volunteers to support youth and mental health awareness.
CCRA President Kathy Rowe was recently recognized by MPP Tracy MacCharles for her extensive volunteer work in our community. After many years serving as vice-president and secretary of the CCRA, Kathy Rowe became president last November. She originally moved to Centennial in 1998 and was soon volunteering on parent councils, first at Charlottetown Junior Public School and then at Joseph Howe Senior Public School. She joined the CCRA about 16 years ago and is often seen helping in the neighbourhood , whether it be at community events such as Winterfest, the spring dinner dance or summer concerts and festivals. Kathy works part-time for the City of Toronto at the Port Union Recreation Centre.
MPP Tracy MacCharles, left, Kathy Rowe and Jennifer McKelvie at the New Year’s Levee on Jan. 14.