The Kiwanis Club of Bradford proudly unveiled the inaugural Kiwanis Champions Awards, highlighting individuals, youth, organizations, and first responders whose service and leadership are strengthening the Bradford area and McKean County.
How the winners were chosen
After a community‑wide nomination process, the Kiwanis Champions Awards Committee reviewed submissions from the public and selected this year’s honorees. The awards celebrate tangible, measurable impact on local children, families, and the broader community.
Award recipients
The Brighter Future Award goes to the Children’s Advocacy Center of McKean County for its meaningful work improving the lives of local children and families.
The Valor Award honors the Bradford City Fire Department, recognizing the courage, dedication, and commitment of its first responders.
The Everyday Hero Award is presented to Suzy Meyer‑Page, whose generosity and service exemplify how one person can make a lasting difference.
The Rising Star Award – Co‑Winners were awarded to Preston & Delaney’s Lemonade Stand and to Colby Blauser, Drum Major of the Bradford Marching Owls, acknowledging exceptional initiative, leadership, and community service by young people.
Why these awards matter
“These awards are about recognizing the people who make our community stronger, often without ever asking for recognition in return,” said Mark Young, President of the Kiwanis Club of Bradford. “The nominations we received showed just how many people in our area are quietly doing extraordinary things. Our recipients represent different kinds of service, but they share something important: each of them demonstrates the impact people can have when they choose to serve others.”
The awards reflect Kiwanis International’s mission of improving the world one child and one community at a time. By shining a spotlight on local service, the ceremony encourages others to get involved and supports the Kiwanis Club’s ongoing fundraising efforts for children and families throughout the region.
Event details
The awards ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. The public is invited to join the celebration, which will bring together families, local businesses, community leaders, and volunteers to honor those who are making Bradford a more compassionate place.
Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and additional information about the 2026 Kiwanis Champions Awards are available through the Kiwanis Club of Bradford.
Original reporting: WESB (Bradford) — read the source article.
