First awarded in 2009, the Seniors of Distinction Awards are intended to increase recognition of seniors in our province, and increase visibility of seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador society.
Leonard (Len) Simms was born in 1943 in Howley and raised in Corner Brook, but became a long-time resident of Grand Falls-Windsor before moving to St. John's, noted a press release announcing the recipients.
His list of accolades and accomplishments includes: President of the Kinsmen Club of Grand Falls-Windsor, Deputy Governor of Kinsmen NL, Governor of Kinsmen, Atlantic Provinces and the first Newfoundland Kinsmen to be to be elected National President of the Kinsmen Clubs of Canada, in 1978-79.
Simms has been involved with a number of charitable organizations including: the Lions Max Simms Memorial Camp since 1981, Chair of Children's Wish Foundation Advisory Board; and member of Stella's Circle Governance Board.
He is also a well-known political figure, having served as MHA for Grand Falls-Windsor, Speaker of the House, Member of Cabinet, Leader of the PC Party of Newfoundland and Labrador and Leader of the Opposition. Most recently, Simms served as CEO of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation and, as an affordable housing advocate, received the National Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation Award at the 2013 Canadian Housing Congress for outstanding contribution to advancing affordable housing solutions.
Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Minster of Children, Seniors and Social Development, announced the 2017 Seniors of Distinction Award recipients.
The Seniors of Distinction Awards program was designed to identify and celebrate the contributions, achievements and diversity of older persons throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
This year's other recipients are Margaret Burden of Port Hope Simpson, Augustine (Gus) Etchegary of Portugal Cove-St. Philips, Dermot (Derm) Flynn of Appleton, and Willis Whyatt of St. Carol's.
A formal awards ceremony to honour these deserving individuals will take place on October 3.
“Recognizing seniors for their contributions and achievements within the community is just a small way to show our appreciation,” said Gambin-Walsh. Seniors play such an important role in shaping the lives of others, through their knowledge, experience and generosity….”
