2026 Student Leaders of Our Community Award Applications Now Open

Tanya Noyes • February 23, 2026

Graduating high school students invited to apply

United Way Leeds & Grenville is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Student Leaders of Our Community Award (SLCA).

Created in 2015, this award recognizes graduating students in Leeds & Grenville who have demonstrated leadership and a strong commitment to volunteerism in their community.

Award Details

  • Four (4) awards of $500
  • Available to graduating secondary school students in Leeds & Grenville
  • Applicants must be accepted into a post-secondary program
  • Volunteer involvement and financial need are key criteria


All application materials must be submitted to your school principal by Friday, May 1, 2026.


If you are a student who has made a difference in your community through volunteerism, we encourage you to apply.


Click here to review full eligibility details and access the application form.

Good luck to all applicants!

By Tanya Noyes July 8, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Local NHL Alumni to Join Gord Brown Memorial Golf Tournament LEEDS & GRENVILLE, ON –United Way Leeds & Grenville (UWLG) and the Brown family are excited to announce that NHL alumni Chris Neil and Alyn McCauley will participate in the 6th Annual Gord Brown Memorial Golf Tournament on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Smugglers Glen Golf Course. “We are thrilled to welcome NHL Alumni Chris Neil and Alyn McCauley to this year’s event,” said Jeff Brown, Honorary Chair and Gord’s brother. “Their participation brings an added level of excitement and creates a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.” While the tournament is currently sold out, a waitlist is available and limited sponsorship opportunities remain, including access to the VIP Reception with NHL Alumni and golf spots. For more information, visit www.uwlg.org or contact Melissa Hindman. Chris Neil, one of the most recognizable players in Ottawa Senators history, played his entire 17-year NHL career with the organization, appearing in 1,026 games. He now serves as the Senators’ Vice President of Business and Community Development. Alyn McCauley, born in Brockville and raised in Gananoque, enjoyed a 10-year NHL career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, San Jose Sharks, and Los Angeles Kings. A former Ottawa 67’s star and two-time World Junior gold medalist, McCauley remains actively involved in hockey operations today. “On behalf of United Way Leeds & Grenville, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our sponsors, especially Canarm Ltd. and Shorelines Casino, for their generous support,” said Ian McFall, Board Chairperson, United Way Leeds & Grenville. “We also thank the Brown family and the Winter Classic Committee for helping recruit these talented professionals.” Now in its sixth year, the tournament honours the legacy of the late Gord Brown, former Member of Parliament for Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. The event brings together golfers, community leaders, and supporters to continue Gord’s legacy of giving back. The Brown family is proud that more than $1 million raised in his name to date and the tournament proceeds support United Way Leeds & Grenville initiatives addressing housing and homelessness, food insecurity, mental health and addictions, and programs for children and youth throughout the region. – 30 – About United Way Leeds & Grenville: United Way Leeds & Grenville is dedicated to improving lives and building a stronger community. We focus on critical issues such as food security, homelessness, housing, mental health, addictions, and supports for children and youth. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to community, we strive to create vibrant, caring communities where everyone can thrive. Media Contact: Melissa Hindman Director of Resource Development United Way Leeds & Grenville 613-342-8889 ext. 26  melissa.hindman@uwlg.org
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