Woo-hoo! Sharon Graham!

NEWS RELEASE

UNITED WAY OF
SAULT STE. MARIE
AND DISTRICT

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The United Way Board of Directors is honoured to present the 2011 John Bennett Labour Award

The John Bennett Labour Award is presented annually to a member or retiree of a local labour union in Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding district, in recognition of an outstanding contribution in the general area of voluntary community service.

Sharon Graham received the award at the 7th annual United Way Labour Leaders Breakfast held Tuesday, December 6, 2011 and sponsored by United Steel Workers Local 2251.

Sharon has helped our community in many different ways without pay and she’s motivated by kindness and commitment to our community.

Active in Labour Council from 1983 to 1996, holding various positions inside the council to president.

Some activities included the following:
    •    Chaired Cesar Chavez Breakfast in 1985
    •    Chaired forum and events fighting Free Trade /GST
    •    Attended city council meetings many years regarding April 28th, Day of Mourning
    •    Took many dignitaries visiting our city, i.e. Pres. CLC, OFL, etc. to tour Group Health Centre as healthcare model
    •    Was the Labour Rep on the Committee to Save Algoma Steel
    •    Presented many briefs to government committees - mostly during NDP in government
    •    Was on the Strategic Long Range Planning Committee as Labour Rep. When MP, MPP and City and EDC met during NDP provincial government
    •    Vice-President, first Airport Authority Board
    •    Police (Commission) Services Board - 1990 to 1994
    •    Community Editor for “Good News” in 1992 and 1993 with the Sault Star
    •    Plummer Hospital Board - 1990 to 1996
    •    United Way Campaign Chair - 1993
    •    City Medal of Merit Committee - 2003 to 2010

Other Community Activism:
    •    Heart and Stroke Foundation Board
    •    Social Planning Council
    •    Big Sisters since 1983 and on Board in late 80’s
    •    Business and Professional Women Sault Ste. Marie in various positions since 1987, currently President
    •    Women Take Back the Night - part of first group organizing this event in our city
    •    December 6th Montreal Massacre Remembrance Committee – member of first group organizing this event in our city
    •    International Women’s Day - chaired committee for many years honouring community nominated women for their contributions to our community since 1989
    •    Ran twice for City Council in 1991 and 1994, narrowly lost both times in a tight race in Ward 2 to Jack Cameletti

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Pictured: Donna Carricato, president United Way presenting the John Bennett Labour Award to Sharon Graham.