This release was issued under a previous government.
The Alberta government established the awards in 2012 to acknowledge those who go above and beyond, and recognize the inspiration they provide to others to take action and make a difference.
“Family violence is one of the most pervasive and difficult issues facing our communities. Recognizing the vital prevention, protection and intervention work in this way allows us to share information about excellent community resources as well as inspire other community members to act.”
Recipients are nominated by their peers and are chosen by a committee comprised of members of the community. The 2014 recipients include a diverse range of Albertans and organizations:
Individual:
- Sherrie Botten, Rowan House Emergency Shelter
- Patrick LaForge, Edmonton Oilers
- Kevin McNichol, HomeFront Calgary
Group
- Edmonton Protection Order Program & Calgary Protection Order Program
- Leduc and District Family Violence Prevention Team
- Fort Saskatchewan Families First Society
Business
- Integra Air, Lethbridge
- Meyers Norris Penny, Medicine Hat
Lifetime achievement
- Jean Dunbar, owner operator of Jean Dunbar Counselling and Consulting
The Inspiration Awards ceremony is held each November during Alberta’s Family Violence Prevention Month, which began in 1986 in Hinton as a local initiative by concerned residents. This grassroots effort inspired the Alberta government to support family violence prevention as an ongoing provincial initiative.