Two Windsor-Essex Citizens to be Awarded Governor General of Canada ‘Caring Canadian Award’

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At a ceremony tomorrow at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, will present the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award to 28 volunteers from across the country.

This event is part of His Excellency’s program to highlight National Volunteer Week, which runs from April 15th to 21st.

Created in 1995, the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award recognizes living Canadians and permanent residents who have made a significant, sustained, unpaid contribution to their community, in Canada or abroad. Often working behind the scenes, these individuals volunteer their time and efforts to help their fellow citizens. The award also brings to light the example set by volunteers, whose compassion and engagement are a part of our Canadian character.

Among those receiving awards will be two from our area:

Daphne Veronica Clarke from Windsor

Daphne Clarke has dedicated over 30 years of her life to helping immigrant women. Jamaican by birth, she arrived in Canada in the 1970s. In 1980, she founded Windsor Women Working with Immigrant Women, to help newcomers adapt to their new country, develop professionally and gain the self-confidence needed to improve their lives. Today, her organization has become the leading resource for immigrants in Windsor. Ms. Clarke’s spirit of solidarity and enterprise has improved the lives of many families.

William Martens from Leamington

William Martens has volunteered since 1963 in various spheres of activity. For over 20 years, he has supported the Mennonite Church as they helped hundreds of refugees come to Canada and integrate into Canadian society. He has also volunteered for the Canadian Food Grains Bank Growing Committee and the Mobile Meat Canner, a project that aims to feed the most vulnerable people in the world. He taught English in Africa for many years and spent 20 years directing a youth chess club. A man of multiple talents, Mr. Martens is always ready to go the extra mile to help those in need.