Two Thornhill youths earn civic hero awards

Yorkreigon.com
April 17, 2015
By Simone Joseph

At a young age, Jenna Zaracoff and Zachary Winkler have both reached out to improve the world in their own ways.

Vaughan council recognized their efforts with a Ward 5 civic hero award, presented Tuesday.

“It is inspiring to see these two young people embracing the spirit of generosity and working to make our community a better place,” said Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. “I offer my congratulations to Jenna and Zachary, and thank them for setting such a wonderful example for other young people in our community to follow.”

Jenna Zaracoff, 12, and Zachary Winkler, 13, both of Thornhill, have raised thousands of dollars.

The two Grade 8 students created community events to support causes dear to them.

Jenna Zaracoff started a lemonade stand when she was just eight years old to raise money for Lymphoma Canada. The annual event is held in memory of her father, who died at the age of 45 from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Zaracoff will hold her fifth annual lemonade stand fundraiser June 13.

Zachary Winkler began his Do Something Sweet event at age six after learning about a young girl with a brain tumour. He was also inspired by his younger sister, Maya, who was treated at the Hospital for Sick Children for Kawasaki disease at six weeks old.

Winkler decided to do something to help all sick children, and started supporting the hospital. His annual driveway candy floss event has raised more than $52,000 in support of SickKids.
For his efforts he was awarded the 2009 Junior Citizen of the Year Award, presented to him by the Premier of Ontario and the Lieutenant Governor.

The Civic Hero Award is presented annually to residents from each of Vaughan's five wards.

The awards recognize outstanding achievement and individual contributions to the community.

“Jenna and Zachary embody the true spirit of volunteerism,” said Ward 5 Councillor Alan Shefman. “Through their annual events, they have made incredible contributions to the community. They are role models and outstanding examples of what a civic hero is, and I thank them for their efforts to improve our community and help those who need it most.”