Thank you to all who attended our Celebration of Inclusion this year, and a special thank you to all of our award winners for continuing to promote inclusion in our communities.

Get to know the 2016 Celebration of Inclusion Award Winners!!

Leader of Tomorrow: Maryn Kennedy

 

Maryn  has been a leader at friendship club for two years. She is a gentle, quiet leader that many look up to.  Maryn is the youngest of 11 children and completed her grade 12 at the age of 15.  She has been actively involved as a key leader with Inclusion Ministry at Hillsdale Baptist Church.  Maryn has made an outstanding contribution to support and promote inclusion in our community in every step of her day!

Citizenship Award: Leanne Barnes

Since starting her position as a Functional Integrated Alternative Education Program (FIAEP) teacher at Dr. Martin LeBoldus High School, Leanne has had a positive impact on FIAEP students and, indeed, all students through her actions as a volunteer and a professional.  As the staff advisor for a large, vibrant, and popular Best Buddies Chapter and also an advisor to the SRC, she encourages friendships among all students.  Leanne is open to new ideas, fresh approaches, and encourages her students and their families to connect with community organizations like Inclusion Regina and support groups specific to their needs.  Leanne follows a person-centered approach – supporting, connecting, and educating her students when and where it is needed and understanding that each student is unique in their path.

Community Award: John Coflin

John has been a long time member of the inclusive communities in Regina.  John is the former Executive Director of both Saskatchewan Association for Community Living and for Regina and District Association for Community Living.  Over the years John has been a strong, positive advocate for building an inclusive community.  John has carved the path for a lot of programs and services provided to individuals with intellectual disabilities.  Now retired, John continues to participate with many committees continuing to promote inclusion and create new possibilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Real Work Award: Morsky Group

The Morsky Group was one of the first businesses to work with 4to40, an initiative that connects people experiencing disability with forward-thinking employers who embrace a flexible 4 to 40 hour work week.  They have customized a role that is both beneficial to the company and works towards the strength of the individual they have hired.  Morsky group has created a unique and individualized role for the employee to thrive and be successful, helping them feel like a true member of the team.  The Morsky group succeeds by maintaining its commitment to its founding values of “Ingenuity and Integrity”.  They embrace the vision of providing meaningful work with real pay and are champions in the community!

Distinguished Member Award: Dave and Lill Lareau

Dave and Lill participate in annual events, such as general meetings, Celebration of Inclusion, and Spring Fling, but also give their support to special programs and fundraising initiatives.  Dave and Lill lead by example, enabling individuals who have an intellectual disability to perform volunteer services by working beside them, offering quiet direction, and lending moral support.  When asked, they are willing to provide individual guidance to families who are attempting to navigate the world of special needs.  Lill and Dave have shown they are here for the long haul, giving of their time, talent and financial contributions.

Congratulations to the 2016 Celebration of Inclusion Award Winners!!