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About the Spirit Awards

The 13th Annual Spirit of the Capital Youth Awards

For the 13th year, Child & Youth Friendly Ottawa (CAYFO) is proud to host the Spirit of the Capital Youth Awards. The Spirit Awards Night is an annual gala that celebrates the extraordinary achievements of youth who are making our community, and the world, a better place. We have the honour and privilege of sharing their incredible stories, passion and dedication with our guests, in hopes of inspiring others to step up and make a difference in their own communities. Awards are presented in eight categories to reflect many different areas of excellence, and to promote a more positive image of youth within the community.

Click here to view the Spirit Press Information Kit.

The Awards Gala

The gala itself is a complete celebration of young people. Our audience is introduced to an exceptional group of youth who encourage and motivate others, who demonstrate outstanding initiative and creativity, and who have overcome tremendous adversity through their passion for life. It is our hope to that by listening to their stories our guests will leave a little more inspired and a little more hopeful about the future we are all going to create. The evening also features talented performances by young singers, dancers and musicians from across the Ottawa region.

Click here to meet the 2009 Finalists.

The Youth Planning Committee

The Spirit Awards are run entirely for youth, by youth. The young volunteers on the Youth Planning Committee are given the opportunity to take on a leadership role in marketing and promotion, sponsorship solicitation and event planning. They dedicate enormous amounts of time and energy to plan, implement and coordinate the gala, ensuring that their peers are recognized for their excellence and achievements.

Click here to meet the 2010 Youth Planning Committee
Click here to view the Sub-Committees and Roles

We need your support!

Here's how you and your school or company can get involved!

  • Promote: Encourage your friends, family and contacts to get involved and to sign up for our newsletters. Spread the word by ordering a promotion package, including posters and postcards! Contact spirit@cayfo.ca for information on in-kind advertising opportunities.

  • Nominate: Know an outstanding young person? Nominate them! Click here for more information.

  • Sponsor: The Spirit Awards would not be possible without the financial support of local businesses. This is your chance to show your support for Ottawa's youth, to reach out to the youth demographic and to advertise to over 500 guests! Click here for more information.

  • Attend: There's no better way to learn more about the Spirit Awards than to attend them! Click here for more information.