Bibi Sanchez was recognized as a 2019 nominee of the Community Asset Awards. The 2020 nomination process is now open. For information, visit Champions of Youth Ambitions Facebook page or www.cya-nm.org. Photo by Chad Lauritzen
CYA News:
The most wonderful time of year has arrived, the formal kick off of the nomination process for the Community Asset Awards.
While many things have changed, the plan to highlight the good deeds of people that live, work and school in this community, is priority number one for Champions of Youth Ambitions (C’YA).
The community program focuses on people of all ages, including youth, adults, businesses and organizations.
“The thing I like the most about the Community Asset Awards, is that they celebrate the ordinary people of the community, who have done wonderful things and may not normally get recognized,” C’YA Board President Claire Swinhoe said.
C’YA has hosted this event for many years, sharing stories that have taken place throughout the previous year. This year, the board is hoping that more stories are just waiting to be shared with the community.
Last year’s winner was Los Alamos Middle School teacher Rita Sanchez, now retired and happily fishing in northern New Mexico. This year perhaps you know someone who needs to be highlighted by sharing their story.
The website is now ready to receive nominations, which only takes a few minutes and doesn’t cost a penny. You can find it at www.cya-nm.org or visit their Facebook page at Champions of Youth Ambitions.
Why is recognition especially important in a year like 2020?
“This year has been an extraordinary year in so many ways,” Swinhoe said. “All of our lives have been turned upside down and life as we know it has changed. It is so important to nominate people this year to acknowledge all the good things we have done to stay positive and make a difference.”
Swinhoe asks people to reflect on who did a kind deed for you, helped you through a crisis or assisted in keeping your spirits up. She wants nominators to think about the kindness of the grocery store clerk, your mailman, or your neighbor.
“You will definitely make their day, by recognizing the difference they make in their community,” Swinhoe said.
Champions of Youth Ambitions board members in addition to Swinhoe include; Karen Greenfield, Valerie Harris, Debra Minyard and Deb Snow. The local non-profit teaches hands-on science, youth leadership, accepts letters and cards for local troops serving throughout the nation and the world, and sponsors the Community Asset Awards.
