News

We all know she is an amazing kid, but now there is proof of that – and a $1,000 cheque!

Roslyn Craig of Smiths Falls is just 12 years old, but her heart is overflowing with compassion for others.

Just ask Hugh Colton, who has known Roslyn and her parents, Chris and Leigh Craig, for years, and they have all been big supporters of Colton and his Build a Mountain of Food campaign.

“I have a whole lot of love for that girl, and her family, who have been huge supporters of Build a Mountain for about five years now,” Colton said. “Roslyn… what can I say. She’s an amazing little girl. Who has fundraising barbecues in the summer, who collects Pepsi can tabs for money, and who goes collecting bottles, and then gives all the money to Build a Mountain? Not too many people do that. She does all that and more.”

Colton said Roslyn’s been his little elf during the winter campaign, hopping on board his float for every parade donning her elf hat. “She doesn’t have to do that in the cold,” he said. “But she was there at every parade (and several store collection sites) we were in.”

Roslyn’s contributions to her community were recognized by the Myers Auto Group and CTV who celebrate “truly amazing youth.”

Nominations are academic leaders, community volunteers or high achievers… someone taking charge and making a difference. 

Roslyn was nominated by Pat Ruest, customer service specialist at RCL Automotive and Tire Discounter business in Smiths Falls, which is owned by the Craigs. He’s only known her for a couple years, but the youngster has made a pretty big impression.

“She’s pretty incredible,” Ruest said in a phone interview with the Record News. “When we heard the news, she let out a whoop. I think she’ll be using the $1,000 for her education – that was a suggestion by her mom.”

In his letter nominating Roslyn, Ruest outlined the commitments this Grade 7 student at Lombardy Public School has on the go.

“Roslyn is an avid go kart racer. She started racing at age seven. While at the track Roslyn collected cans and bottles and raised over $350. Roslyn donated the entire amount to the Smiths Falls and District Community Food Bank. While at the track Roslyn assisted with new young drivers.

“For the past four years, Roslyn has volunteered at the grocery stores to collect food for the “Build a Mountain of Food” at Christmas time. (She) sorted out her old toys and had a yard sale. The money she raised was donated to the food bank.

“Roslyn baked 240 cupcakes and raised over $475 for the National Cupcake Day for Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the humane society.”

Ruest said Roslyn also volunteered at the Fish Fry supporting the Rideau Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club, and has also donated her hair for “Wigs for Kids” (Haircuts for Cancer) and she will be involved again this year.

“Roslyn has made quite the impression on me. She is polite, courteous and respectful. She is ready to help anybody in the community who is in need,” Ruest said. “It really impressed me that such a young person is that involved in the community. Roslyn is what I call a ‘difference maker’.”

According to a message from CTV, Ottawa, Roslyn will be receiving her $1,000 cheque live on CTV News at 6 on Wednesday, March 1.

The family will be present for the taping of the news, then they will enjoy a tour of the Bell Media Ottawa Studios located in the Byward Market.

By: Laurie Weir
News Link:  http://www.insideottawavalley.com/community-story/7163274-roslyn-craig-wins-amazing-kid-award-and-1-000-prize-for-community-involvement-in-smiths-falls/