OTTAWA (20 October 2006) – Leon Benoit, Member of Parliament for Vegreville-Wainwright, was thrilled to break the news to Vermilion’s Gerri Cameron that she had been selected the first-ever recipient of the Breakfast for Learning’s National Award for Leadership and Inspiration.
“Gerri has done so much for the children in our community,” affirms Benoit. “It is wonderful to have her efforts recognized on a national scale.”
Breakfast for Learning (BFL) has a very simple goal – to ensure that every child attends school well nourished and ready to learn. “It never fails to amaze me to learn of the incredible volunteer work going on in towns and communities across this country,” says Benoit. “Breakfast for Learning is one of those great organizations that exist only to make sure that our children have the best possible start to their lives.”
The Award for Leadership and Inspiration was created as a way to acknowledge the ideas, dedication and generosity of program participants across Canada. Provincial co-ordinators were asked to submit their top choices for consideration and then the top three were presented to BFL’s national gathering in Ottawa this week. Votes were cast by secret ballot, and Gerri Cameron was chosen by her peers as the country’s most inspirational Breakfast for Learning volunteer.
“My wife Linda and I have known Gerri for years,” says Benoit, “and her dedication and drive are indeed inspiring. Linda, myself and my riding staff helped Gerri serve breakfast to the kids recently and I saw firsthand how much she cares for the children in her community. Now those same efforts will help kids across Canada.”
Benoit also wanted to note the contributions made to Breakfast for Learning by people like Ben Bosgra and his staff. “Everyone knows Ben and the quality of service he provides – his generosity is to be commended and I send my appreciation to his organization as well,” concludes Benoit.
“Congratulations, Gerri, and a heartfelt thank you for all you do.”
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