The Beginning
The Lions Children of Courage Awards were first initiated in 1983 in Western Australia by the then District Governor Joe Mason.
The Purpose
To recognise a very special group of young Western Australians and their families. At the time there were many awards that recognised the achievements of young people, however, children with “special needs’ were not catered for. These awards have are especially designed to recognise the courage and bravery shown by these children every day.
What are the Lions Children of Courage Awards…
It is not a competition; every child who is nominated receives the award. It is hoped that by receiving the award it will:
- Act as an encouragement for their future
- Help them believe in themselves
- Help increase their self-worth
The family also benefits from the award, sharing in their pride and the recognition of how these children have overcome the many hardships that they face on a day to day basis.
All Children want to be accepted by others, regardless of any special needs they may have. These awards will portray them as children who have successfully overcome additional barriers which face them in this world.
Children of Courage Categories
There are 4 (four) categories for which a child may be nominated and they are:
- Special needs – Children with special need i.e. sight, hearing, speech impaired, wheelchair bound or long periods of hospitalization or medical treatments.
- Courageous act or deed – Showing great concern for others, aided at an accident, instrumental in the preservation of life or property. This category may also include children who have undergone lifesaving operations, undergone daily medical treatments i.e. diabetes, or siblings who actively participate in the daily care for their brother or sister
- Inspiring sporting achievement – Children who have overcome great personal hardship/disadvantages to achieve a high degree of sporting prowess either as a individual or team, member.
- Sibling recognition – siblings who actively participate in the daily care for their brother or sister who have either a physical or intellectual disability.
Nominations
In every community there are certain to be worthy nominees for a Lions Children of Courage Award. Nominations are forwarded through local Lions Clubs for consideration and approval and are restricted to children aged between the ages of 5 and 15 years.
For more information, please contact:
The Secretary: 0490 902 041, brisbanecamphillcarindale.qld@lions.org.au
Brisbane Camp Hill Carindale Lions Club recently gave out Children of Courage Awards at a ceremony on 28 February 2021.
We had a wonderful afternoon celebrating our Children of Courage recipients. Special thank you to Cr Lisa Atwood and Darling Point Special School for their involvement.
