There’s an Art to Saying Thanks, as These Talented Young Artists Demonstrate

PETERBOROUGH, ON (July 28, 2025) – Expressing gratitude is an art, and at Five Counties Children’s Centre, that sentiment is being brought to life during its 50th anniversary through the creativity of one of its young clients. The Centre is proud to unveil the 50th anniversary edition of its corporate thank you card, featuring original artwork by Meryn, a seven-year-old from Peterborough. Her vibrant, rainbow-themed illustration graces the cover of the special edition thank you card, with a brief artist profile on the back highlighting her inspiring journey. Five Counties will share the thank you cards with its donors, volunteers, and community supporters as a token of gratitude for their contributions and support of the Centre.

Meryn, a spirited and determined young girl, has been receiving services from Five Counties since moving to Peterborough with her family in 2021. Born with hypoglycemia and developmental delays, she and her twin brother Alec have benefited from a range of therapies, including speech, occupational, and physiotherapy. A passionate swimmer and lover of rainbows – fittingly reflected in her joyful artwork gracing the cover of the 50th anniversary thank you cards – Meryn continues to make remarkable progress in her speech and early literacy skills.

Meryn’s mom, Meghan, is extremely grateful to Five Counties for all the support it has given her family, so having her daughter express that appreciation through her artwork on the thank you card is very fitting. “Five Counties was our link to the community and our only support,” Meghan says. The staff made us feel like family. They celebrated every milestone. They gave me comfort and security.”

From left, Five Counties clinician Katie poses with Meryn and her mom Meghan

Meryn’s artwork was selected through a colouring contest held this spring to coincide with the Centre’s 50th anniversary in 2025. The contest attracted numerous entries from across the region, with Meryn’s piece chosen for its creativity and heartfelt expression.

“We know how meaningful our services are to families,” says Scott Pepin, CEO of Five Counties Children’s Centre. “Having a thank you card designed by one of our clients, like Meryn, adds a deeply personal touch to our 50th anniversary festivities. It allows our supporters to see the real impact of their generosity.”

Kassie Graham, Community Engagement Coordinator at Five Counties, agrees, noting: “Receiving a thank you card is always appreciated, but receiving one that showcases the impact of our supporters on children’s lives is truly special.”

Lyla and Meryn showing their winning artwork

In addition to Meryn’s winning design, a Community Winner was also selected. Seven-year-old Lyla from Omemee created her submission while accompanying her brother to an appointment at Five Counties in Lindsay. A budding artist, Lyla enjoys drawing and colouring, often honing her skills through online tutorials. 

“We were overwhelmed by the number of beautiful submissions,” adds Graham. “It was a challenge to choose just two winners. We are incredibly grateful to all the young artists who participated. Their creativity and passion are truly inspiring, and we’re excited to share these cards far and wide.”

Five Counties is marking its 50th year in 2025 with a number of festivities, including the special thank you card contest. Five Counties provides life-changing treatment services to children and youth with physical, developmental, and communication needs across Peterborough, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, and Northumberland County.