2002 CWLC Achievement Awards

Advocacy – Donald Horne

Nominated by the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society

Donald Horne spent over 27 year working in First Nations child welfare. His accomplishments include the development of the First Nations child and family service agency in Kahnawake from a one-person service to what is today, Shakotiia’Takehnhas Community Services, an organization staffed by over 144 persons.

He has demonstrated leadership not only at the community level but also at provincial and national levels. Among his provincial activities are his role as Chair of the Directors Advisory Group of the Quebec regional Aboriginal Child and Family Service Agency and his work on the advisory committee of McGill University’s Aboriginal Social Work Certificate program and the Dawson College Social Services Program.

Cindy Blackstock, Board member, presented Mr. Horne with his award at his retirement party on May 23.

Children’s Service – Staff of Child Care, Adoption and Young Offenders Programs – Family and Community Services, New Brunswick

Nominated by Lucy McGillgan, Supervisor, Family and Community Services

“The group I have nominated is unique,” says Lucy McGillgan. “They come in every morning ready for the challenge. Everyone knows each other’s cases and shares responsibility for the work. They are willing to help and support each other without question. When one social worker is disappointed about the day’s events, there is always someone there to point out all the good work that was done.

‘The children and youth know they can depend on their social worker, not only when they are in trouble, but more importantly, when they are not. They look at the strengths of these children and youth and build on them.”

Ron Stanley, Board member, presented the award on June 26.

Foster Parent – Lydia and George Poole

Nominated by Foster Care Network

Lydia and George Poole have fostered children and youth for over 40 years -- the last 10 years with Wood’s Homes.

The Pooles bring together masterfully acceptance and respect as they deal with kids with different unique qualities and backgrounds. They advocate vigorously for resources and supports for those with developmental deficits. They consistently promote the strengths of these children and youth, while confronting problems with a clear vision and directness.

The Pooles have worked closely with biological families, communicating with them on a frequent and regular basis to build trust and encourage their involvement. They always welcome families into their home and speak with them openly and frankly. This frankness with both youth and families has led to greater trust and opportunities for youth to return home.

Peter Dudding, Executive Director, presented the Award on November 14

Youth Leadership – Shauna Parks

Nominated by the Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary

Shauna Parks entered care when she was seven years old. She was in live-in care continuously from age 13 to 20. During this time she completed her high school diploma and entered the Child and Youth Care Counselling program at Mount Royal College. In the fall of 2001, she completed her second year practicum at the Alberta Youth in Care and Custody Network. She completed her program in the spring of 2002, determined to work within the system to improve lives of other youth in care.

Shauna aspires to become an excellent leader. She has worked with the Board of the AYCCN to crystallize program priorities and she has focussed her skills to be able to put into operation the mission and goals of the organization, which continues to thrive under her leadership. Shauna has raised several hundred thousand dollars to initiate new programs.

Shauna has six siblings who were also raised in the care of child welfare. She is the leader of her family, maintaining their feeling of belonging in their family. She continues to advocate for her younger siblings who are still in care.

Robin Pike, 1st Vice President, presented Shauna with her award on June 23.