A J.A. Williams High student has been chosen as Lac La Biche’s Junior Citizen of the Year. Grade 11 Leagan Ponicappo has been chosen by the Lac La Biche Firefighter’s Society for his volunteer work in the community and at the school.
Leagan was nominated by Big Brothers Big Sisters. He has been a big brother for the past two years, and the group says he takes the time to embrace the experience.
“What makes Leagan different from the other teen mentors though is his big heart and empathy for others,” says Kristen Shewchuk-White. “Since the beginning of his time volunteering with BBBS, he has always been the Big that every little hopes to get. Whenever we have large events with all the matches, he makes sure that every little feels special and that they matter.”
Leagan also raises money to buy his special needs classmates Christmas gifts and gives tours to future students, along with helping at the Lake Metis Settlement. He will get to ride with Santa in the parade, light the Christmas tree in front of the Northern Lights Public Schools’ office, and will be recognized by the mayor.