OFSA 2008/2009 Writing Contest Winner

The “Your Family Matters Writing Contest” invited Grade 12 students graduating in the 2008/2009 academic year attending public, catholic, or private schools in Ontario to submit an essay on the theme of “Family Appreciation”.

The Provincial Winner is Stephanie Bedell from Stamford Colegiate, Niagara Falls submitted their essay to OFSA member funeral home (Morgan Funeral Homes).  The essay titled The True Definition of Family won for its content/lessons learned, sincerity, emotional pull, creativity, structure and grammar on the topic of why their family matters.

“As this is the first year of the contest it was important to us to announce the winner on Family Day,” Brian Parent, President of Ontario Funeral Service Association. “OFSA has been representing family owned and operated funeral homes in Ontario for over 125 years.  Family matters to OFSA and our 400 members across the province.  The purpose of this contest was to emphasize the importance of family to high school students in Ontario, and we are very pleased with our first year results”.

Provincial Winner Stephanie Bedell will receive $2,500.00, which has been sponsored by the Canadian Funeral Trade Association.  Miss Bedell will be recognized at the OFSA’s 2009 mid-year conference in April and will have her essay published in an OFSA publication. OFSA will also fund the expenses for the student and two parents/guardians to attend the spring meeting.

Background

Ontario Funeral Service Association (OFSA) was formed in 1883.  Originally named The Embalmers’ Association, it was incorporated in 1922 as the OFSA.  It is the largest association representing independent funeral homes across Ontario, and strives to increase public awareness of the funeral profession while providing members with advocacy and resources.

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