Video: Ninth annual awards presented to respect champions

NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF THUNDER BAY
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THUNDER BAY – The ninth annual Respect Award recipients were announced during the Diversity Thunder Bay Celebration Wednesday with the honour going to one individual and one local business, based on their efforts to exemplify respect in our community. Community leader Terry Bannon and Bay Village Coffee received a Respect Award for their efforts promoting attitudes, beliefs and behaviours that demonstrate respect.

 

“We are so pleased to honour two very deserving recipients with this year’s respect. Award for their empowerment of others by leading with compassion, dedication and respect,” said Jeff Upton, Chair of the Thunder Bay Crime Prevention, and member of the respect. Working Group. “Congratulations to Terry Bannon and Bay Village Coffee for dedicating so much of their time and energy towards fostering positive relationships and inclusion, and being in service to our community.”
 
Terry, a well-respected elder of Fort William First Nation, has dedicated her life to helping families in her home community. She is a leader who supports people across the life cycle, from young children to seniors. She believes that culture will heal her people and as such, has spearheaded numerous initiatives to teach and share the sacred teachings far and wide. She has hosted workshops and events that empower youth to get involved in their culture, as well as to get active. Terry organized baseball and hockey games in her community, all the while ensuring everyone receives equipment to play. Through her ongoing work, she continues to find opportunities to improve the health, safety and well-being of children, youth and families in and around the community.
 
Bay Village Coffee, owned and operated by Gary Mack and Alan Forbes, provides a safe and inclusive place for everyone to “espresso” themselves. While being a fairly new business in Thunder Bay, Bay Village Coffee recognized early on the importance of giving back, and as such, they’ve led successful fundraisers for children and families, cardiovascular health, and equity and human rights. They employ students and youth, providing opportunities for young people to gain valuable work experience and skills as they grow in the community.
 
A special video featuring this year’s recipients can be viewed at www.thunderbay.ca/respect.