From the child who wrote with humour to the one who crafted a heartfelt message, young residents in Peterborough are being recognized for penning pieces about the older adults who most inspire them.
Community Care Peterborough (CCP) has announced the winners of its 2025 Grandparent of the Year awards, described in a media release as a “cherished tradition” of the agency that’s now in its 37th year.
Presented in partnership with title sponsor The Gardens of Peterborough Retirement Residences, the annual contest aims to celebrate the deep bonds between children and the older adults who inspire, guide, and care for them, according to CCP.
“This year’s entries were incredibly moving,” Chris LeBlanc, director of donors and public relations for CCP, told kawarthaNOW.
“The kids wrote with such honesty, warmth, and creativity. You could feel how much love and admiration they have for their grandparents and older family members. Some were funny, others heartfelt, but all of them showed just how deeply older adults influence the lives of younger generations here in Peterborough,” LeBlanc said.
“At Community Care Peterborough, we often say that our mission begins with the belief that our neighbours have dignity and that their lives are worth celebrating. This contest brings that to life in a very real way — it reminds us that intergenerational relationships are a source of strength and joy in our community,” LeBlanc added.
Students from across the city and county of Peterborough in Grades 1 through 6 were invited to submit a short essay and hand-drawn picture honouring a grandparent, elder, or special older person in their lives. A winner and honourable mention were selected in both English and French for two age groups: Primary (Grades 1-3) and Junior (Grades 4-6).
CCP announced the winners during a ceremony on Wednesday (June 4) held at Royal Gardens Retirement Residence in Peterborough. Children, family members and teachers attended the event to support their students and celebrate the contributions of the older adults being recognized, the media release noted.
“This program is more than a writing contest,” LeBlanc said in a statement. “These stories are a testament to the role that older adults play in building strong, compassionate communities.”
The 2025 Grandparent of the Year award winners are listed below.
Primary Category – Grades 1-3 (English)
Winner: Ezra Larmour, Grade 3, St. Teresa Catholic Elementary School (honouring Grandpa Mark Larmour)
Honourable Mention: Addy Davey, Grade 3, St. Teresa Catholic Elementary School (honouring Memaw Kelly Epstein)
Primary Category – Grades 1-3 (French)
Winner: Zinnia Ricciuti, Grade 3, Prince of Wales Public School (honouring Nonna and Nonno Ricciuti)
Honourable Mention: Siobhan Glover, Grade 3, Prince of Wales Public School (honouring Papa Jim Dyas)
Junior Category – Grades 4-6 (English)
Winner: Kaliyah Espiritu, Grade 5, St. Teresa Catholic Elementary School (honouring Grandpa Jun Espiritu)
Honourable Mention: Charlotte Fillier, Grade 5, Norwood District Public School (honouring Great Aunt Penny)
Junior Category – Grades 4-6 (French)
Winner: Faela Conroy, Grade 6, Kaawaate East City Public School (honouring Grandma Minten)
Honourable Mention: Owen Anderson, Grade 6, Kaawaate East City Public School (honouring Grandma Laura Payne)
The Grandparent of the Year initiative was first introduced by Anne Innis, a former volunteer and board member with Community Care, to bring different generations together and celebrate the influence they have on each other.
CCP supports the health and well-being of seniors and adults living with disabilities across the city and county of Peterborough.
Through programs such as Meals on Wheels, transportation, wellness services, and friendly visiting, CCP helps people remain independent, connected, and supported in their own homes.
