May 15, 2009
On Thursday, May 14, 2009, Macdonald Youth Services held their 2nd annual Gala Dinner Under the Big Top at Delta Winnipeg. The evening began with guests playing carnival games like ring toss and milk bottle knockdown while being entertained by the talents of magicians Zac & Jen and juggler Myron Pauls.
Emcee Jim Ingebritsen got the evening started off by welcoming everyone and inviting the Executive Director of MYS, Dr. Erma Chapman, to say a few words. After discussing the importance of agencies like Macdonald Youth Services in preventing the exploitation of youth, Erma introduced our new Youth Emergency Shelter video. Other speakers included Brad Wolfe, MYS Board President, who brought greetings from the board and Cynthia Drebot, Coordinator of STOA, who read quotes from youth that have stayed at the Shelter.
During dinner the official presentation of the 2009 Sir Hugh John Macdonald Memorial Award was made to Bill Knight, in recognition of his tireless efforts in helping improve the lives of youth in our community. Mr. Knight gave a moving speech that helped emphasize the importance of resources like the Shelter and then helped the cause by conducting a live auction!
MYS would like to thank Bill Knight for his efforts and congratulate him on his deserved honour. MYS would also like to thank the dinner co-chairs, Moray Merchant and Heather Hlady, along with the rest of the organizing committee. Finally, the dinner could not have been a success without the support of our sponsors:
Silver Sponsors Manitoba Metis Federation and Paul’s Hauling
Bronze Sponsors Assiniboine Credit Union, Coughlin & Associates, Payworks, Ranger Insurance and Talbot Marketing
Venue Sponsor Delta Winnipeg
