Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Two Smoky River Region residents were among four people recognized at the Dec. 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities awards presentation.
The awards are presented to organizations and individuals who have greatly contributed to inclusion of people with disabilities in Alberta over the past year.
Maurice Chenard and Hayden Campbell were two of the individuals recognized for their contributions.
The Gary McPherson Leadership Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership or achievement enriching the lives of people with disabilities. This year, Maurice Chenard of Falher was presented with the award.
Chenard is a driver with the Smoky River Transportation program. He goes out of his way every day to ensure all of his passengers feel safe, valued, and listened to. Passengers say they appreciate the personal attention and touch he gives to each interaction, his thoughtfulness, warm and welcoming attitude as he builds connections.
“Maurice’s whole life is that bus, he goes above and beyond for the residents on the bus,” says Smoky River Community and Support Services director Crystal Tremblay, who nominated Chenard.
“Walks to homes, carries groceries, he truly cares about the people getting on the bus. He deserves to be recognized for all he does for our community.”
The Premier’s Council Youth Award is presented to an individual or a team of individuals up to the age of 25, who has made a significant contribution to creating an inclusive and accessible community for people with disabilities. This year, Hayden Campbell received the award at the presentation on Dec. 3 at the Legislature in Edmonton.
While living with disabilities, Hayden works passionately in the community to promote food security for all by sitting on a board of the Smoky River Food Bank. He is a trailblazer, advocating for people with disabilities to help them secure employment in Falher.
“Hayden has been a driving force for people who have neurotypical or neurodivergent handicaps,” Trembley says, adding that Campbell was nominated by another FCSS employee.
“He advocates for himself and for others who have similar disabilities. We feel because of his advocation, and hard work there have been others in the community that have been hired that otherwise wouldn’t get the chance. He just does it because it’s right, not to be recognized.”