The Culture Connector Award celebrates Ottawa Valley individuals or organizations going above and beyond helping newcomers to Canada feel at home.
This year was the first occasion they were handed out, and it was a clean sweep for Arnprior; remarkable progress for a Town that had made headlines when an elected official was oblivious to alleged systemic racism in the community.
Recipients and close community associates were the nominators, and the County of Renfrew, the title sponsor.
Warden Peter Emon was on hand for the presentations June 29th, and noted the occasion would broaden his appreciation of Canada Day.
Awards were presented to Michelle Beale (Individual), Arnprior- whose kindness to one Afghan refugee, Ajmal Khairullah, has grown to include group work expanding the welcoming circle to others.
Theresa Dunn organizer of the Arnprior Cares initiative, was feted, but could not attend.
Union 108, Ro Nwosu’s yoga studio won in the organization category.
She says we’ve come a long way in a short time.
Ro tells Oldies 107.7 that Union 108 will be offering thematic programming over the summer highlighting diverse aspects of the Yoga discipline.
The Culture Connector awards were presented over the noon hour Thursday, June 29th at Union 108, 108 John Street North, Arnprior.
By Rick Stow
