Grandparent of the Year 2026

Community Care Peterborough is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Grandparent of the Year Awards, a cherished tradition now in its 38th year. Presented in partnership with The Gardens Retirement Living as Title Sponsor, the annual contest celebrates the deep bonds between children and the older adults who inspire, guide, and care for them.

Students from across the City and County of Peterborough in Grades 1 through 6 were invited to submit a hand-drawn picture and a short written piece honouring a grandparent, elder, or special older person in their lives. A winner and honourable mention were selected in both English and French for Primary grades 1 to 3, and in English for the Junior grades 4 to 6.

Winners were announced at a special ceremony held on June 4th at Royal Gardens Retirement Residence. The event was well attended by delighted family members and teachers who came to support their students and celebrate the contributions of the older adults being recognized.

“This event is such a meaningful celebration because it brings families together around the stories of the older adults they love,” said Chris LeBlanc, Director of Donor and Public Relations. “One of the best parts of the awards ceremony is seeing the families of our winners smiling from ear to ear as they celebrate their children, their grandparents, and the special connections between them. We are also deeply grateful to the teachers who welcome this initiative into their classrooms and encourage their students to take part. Their support means so much to young people, and we truly could not do this without them.”

The 2026 Grandparent of the Year Award winners are:

Primary Category – Grades 1–3 (English)

Winner: Laila McIlmoyle, Grade 3, Immaculate Conception CES

Honouring: Papa Brian Downer

Honourable Mention: Everly Colquhoun, Grade 3, Monsignor O’Donoghue CES

Honouring: Grammy Sue Wheeler

Primary Category – Grades 1–3 (French)

Winner: Quinn Keast, Grade 2, Kaawaate East City Public School

Honouring: Grandma Clare Keast

Honourable Mention: Felix Myles, Grade 2, Kaawaate East City Public School

Honouring: Gramps Bruce Scott

Junior Category – Grades 4–6 (English)