Toronto, ON, June 23, 2014 – The Joe Carter Classic and the Children’s Aid Foundation today announced this year’s recipients of Joe Carter Scholarships: Anna Ho and Shameer Rahman. Both students are acknowledged for their outstanding academic achievement, community involvement and potential to succeed. Anna and Shameer will each receive a $5000 award towards post-secondary education this fall. The Joe Carter Classic charity golf tournament will be held on June 26, 2014 at Eagles Nest Golf Club in Maple, ON.
“Congratulations to Anna and Shameer on their amazing accomplishments,” said Joe Carter, event co-chair and former Toronto Blue Jays star. “It’s an honour to play a part in helping such inspiring individuals and community role models strive towards a better future.”
“Together with our partners, we aim to help children and youth currently or formerly living under the care of the child welfare system to reach their full potential,” said Valerie McMurtry, president and CEO of the Children’s Aid Foundation. “We believe that education empowers young people towards a brighter future – so that children are safe, families are strong and communities are supported.”
Anna’s Story
Anna entered care at 13 years old, after the traumatic murder of her mother and grandmother. Despite this life altering event, Anna remained strong and resilient. Anna graduated from high school with honours, and became active in addressing issues related to child welfare, including involvement with the 2011 Ontario’s Youth Leaving Care hearings, and the Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth’s – ‘Our Voice, Our Turn’ project. Anna will turn 21 this fall and, with support from the Children’s Aid Foundation, she will enter her final year of an Honours Bachelor of Social Work degree program at Ryerson University.
Shameer’s story
Shameer lived in and out of foster care since the age of six, after his mother’s mental illness prevented her from being his primary caregiver. During adolescence, Shameer experienced negative influences resulting in a drop in academic performance. With support from Children’s Aid Foundation, Shameer improved his grades and now uses these negative experiences as inspiration to work hard and give back to others by volunteering extensively. At age 20, Shameer is headed into his third year, specializing in Political Science and minoring in French at the University of Toronto, with plans to establish a career in corporate law.
“Anna and Shameer’s stories are an inspiration to us all,” said James Dodds, event co-chair and TD Bank Group executive. “We wish both students continued success – as today’s Joe Carter Scholarship recipients – and tomorrow’s community leaders.”
