NANAIMO – Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo and Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction presented the King Charles III Coronation Medal to four local citizens today during a ceremony at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre.
“Our four Nanaimo medallists represent our community’s spirit of generosity and selflessness,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo. “I’m honoured to present Peter, Laurie, Joshua, and Amanda with their King Charles medals today and thank them for their community work.”
Peter Sinclair serves as the Executive Director of Loaves and Fishes Food Bank, a role he has held since 2011. In this role he has led work increasing the amount of nutritious food available to people and saving food from going to the landfill every day through new and expanded partnerships.
Laurie Grubb is the President of the Royal Canadian Legion, Mount Benson Branch 256, Nanaimo. She’s shared her passion for supporting her community, and Veterans in particular, serving on the Executive for Branch 256 as 1st and 2nd VP, Assistant Secretary/Treasure, and now President in her second term.
Constable Joshua Waltman is Nanaimo’s first ever RCMP Mental Health Liaison Officer. As MHLO Joshua worked to transform his position into including a full-time crisis car program, “Car 54”, in partnership with Island Health, ensuring a mental health nurse is present on mental health crisis-related calls to connect people in crisis and people needing support with the help they need.
Amanda Hall is a member of BC People First Society, where she volunteers as a Membership and Self-Advocate Liaison, informed by her lived experience with Williams Syndrome. She also writes blog posts and teaches workshops with Community Living B.C., all while holding multiple jobs, being an active volunteer and advocate, and navigating self-care while living with Williams Syndrome.
They have all played a part in making the community an amazing place to live, and have built legacies that will continue for generations to come.
The Coronation Medal, a Canadian honour created to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, was launched by Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, and recognizes those who have made significant contributions to Canada and their home province. The medal will be awarded to 30,000 deserving individuals across the country and is the first Canadian honour to mark a coronation.