To view the Star Awards Gala Video click on the link below,
The Star Awards Gala was the biggest gala celebration to date of the achievements of those in our community with developmental disabilities. This Gala is like a night at the Oscars, but instead of nominated a film. These nominations are more for people living with a developmental disability, the nominees not only come from Oakville, they are also from, Burlington, Brampton, Milton & Brantford. Mr. Montague is looking to having more nominees from the GTA!
If you know of someone living with a developmental disability? Nominate them for the 2019 Gala,
Would you like to become a Sponsor?
Contact James Montague at 905-815-5559
About the Star Awards Gala: by Nathan Howes Special to the Oakville Beaver
Oakville resident James Montague wants to take the Star Awards Gala to the next level, in the hope that more people will get recognition for their contributions.
The ceremony, which celebrates the talents and contributions of those in the community with a developmental challenge, came to fruition several years ago after Montague and his friends created an event similar to the Oscars, with some modifications.
The first ceremony was held at Montague’s house, but as the event became popular, the next two were at the Holiday Inn-Oakville — drawing in 32 and 80 people, respectively.
By 2015, the event drew 200 people.
The Oakville event planner and Special Olympian wants to make the gala even bigger.
“Our focus is trying to bring the gala to people who haven’t heard of it before. I’ve spoken to a lot of parents and they just can’t believe this is what I do — award people for what they do in their day-to-day lives,” said Montague.
“Because we’re integrating the Halton (school) boards this year, it will recognize students at the school level. We want to make sure this gala is known in the Oakville community.”
This year’s gala, the seventh to date, takes place Saturday, Sept. 21 at the Holiday Inn-Oakville, 590 Argus Rd., where Montague works.
The event is supported by Community Living Oakville, Special Olympics Oakville, the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) and Halton District School Board (HDSB).
Montague noted there would be 70 nominees recognized this year, with many from Community Living Oakville, Special Olympics Oakville and the Halton school boards.
Up to 20 individuals will be from Brampton, Ont.
Students from Oakville’s St. Ignatius of Loyola, Holy Trinity and St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic high schools, as well as Burlington’s Assumption and M.M. Robinson secondary schools, will be among those recognized.
While Montague has chosen all the nominees, he said many of them don’t have a sponsor, yet, to attend the gala, so he is looking for organizations or individuals to support them.
“A lot of them have low-income status and can’t always afford a big event like this. With the cost being $50, it’s a little hard for them to (afford it),” said Montague.
“We’re very desperate for sponsors. If anyone would like to contribute, the best way is to give me a call and sponsor a nominee.”
The gala will also include three special awards ¬– Live One Day At A Time and Tim Robertson.
The latter is named after a local resident who died from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2016.
His Excellence Bishop Douglas Crosby will be making an appearance
There will also be two professional dancers as part of the entertainment lineup.
Halton police, EMS and Oakville Fire officials will be in attendance and Halton-based MPs and MPPs have been invited.
“It’s incredible how the first one was held in my own home with 12 of my friends. Now, it has grown to include so many people,” said Montague.
It runs from 5-9:30 p.m.
Tickets cost $50 and can be purchased by calling Montague at 905-815-5559.
Those interested in sponsoring a nominee can contact Montague at the aforementioned number.