Winnipeg, MB - Today, Mayor Sam Katz presented Kevin Settee, 23, with the 2014 Lehotsky Scholarship for his contribution to Winnipeg's West End community.
“Kevin Settee grew up in the West End, and has been working to improve his community by being a role model for youth, volunteering, and being a community organizer, all while battling health issues and working towards his degree at the University of Winnipeg,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “His work and attitude are inspirational and truly embody the spirit of the award. I am proud to present Kevin with the 2014 Lehotsky Scholarship.”
Kevin Settee has planned and participated in a variety of different awareness walks, including the All Nations Medicine Walk for sexually exploited women and girls. He coaches lacrosse and volunteers at inner city schools conducting sweat lodges and pipe ceremonies, and is a role model for the Aboriginal Men’s Anti-Violence Campaign against domestic violence.
“It is in an honour to receive this scholarship and I feel humbled to be recognized as someone who is doing the same kind of work that Harry Lehotsky did in the West End,” Kevin Settee said. “I will continue to work and try my hardest to improve the quality of life for people in the West End, and especially for our women and children. Harry Lehotsky's vision and dedication will live on through the work that others in the community do and as well as in me.”
Students are nominated by community members, and the award is granted by a committee that includes a member of City Council and representatives from New Life Ministries.
The Mayor awards the annual scholarship of up to $5,000 to one or more eligible students who have displayed an exceptional effort as an advocate for the health and safety of people in the Winnipeg’s West End through community leadership or volunteerism.
The scholarship builds on Rev. Lehotsky’s legacy of community building and is awarded each year to inner city youth in honour of his work in the Winnipeg’s West End community. It was created in 2006 by Mayor Sam Katz in partnership with New Life Ministries.