In 1992 the H-N REACH Merit Award was established. Through this annual award, Haldimand-Norfolk REACH recognizes members of our community who have made a significant contribution to children/youth and/or children/youth's services in the Haldimand and Norfolk communities. Nominations for the Award are collected by the Agency staff and the recipients are selected by the Board of Directors.
 
The Haldimand-Norfolk REACH Merit Award was presented this year to two of our volunteers; Ruth Graham, OEYC Houghton Hub Parent Advisory Committee Member and Sue Stevenson, volunteer for OEYC - Waterford site.

Ruth Graham is an extraordinary volunteer. She is a vital member of the Parent Advisory Committee at the Ontario Early Years Houghton Hub and has spent many hours decorating the centre, posting flyers and telling families about our programs. She also received training in safe food handling so that she can prepare snacks for the children. Ruth was very instrumental in the planning and preparations related to the Grand Opening of the Houghton Hub. She also spear-headed a fundraiser at our Centre, that helped many families in our community to have a better Christmas.

Thirty nine years ago Sue Stevenson was one of the founding parents of the Mom's and Tots group that met in the Waterford United Church. This group, which is now an Early Years Centre, continues to thrive and over the years Sue has consistently stayed involved volunteering her time to help support families with young children. Every Tuesday morning Sue is at the Church to open the doors for the Early Years staff and other volunteers. Sue helps with the set up and clean up of the program, and she prepares and provides snacks for the children. Sue is an ever-friendly face, quick to welcome new families to the group. Sue is a wonderful example of community spirit and we are sure that there are many children and families whose lives have been enriched and helped through Sue's willingness to be a hand outstretched. Sue is a humble person yet her dedication to serve deserves recognition.

We were very pleased to present the Merit Award this year to Ruth Graham and Sue Stevenson.