Last year we started an annual award for "Excellence in Advocacy", Our first recipient of the award was Pauline Marois started Quebec's affordable, universal early learning and child care program.
 
This year the CCWAD committee decided to give the "Excellence in Advocacy" award to Dr. Charles Pascal. Ten years ago Pauline Marois made big changes that resulted in real child care system and today has delivered results for Quebec children and families.

We think that Dr.  Pascal's work is as far reaching and provided his report is fully implemented will also result in a system here in Ontario that will benefit all children from infants to 12 years old.
 
It's such a difficult decision to find one recipient for our advocacy award. Across the Province, hundreds of advocates are working tirelessly to improve the lives of families, children and build a system of early learning and child care that is strong and effective.
 
There are so many local heroes in early learning and child care. Lucille Desjardins from Treasure Island Daycare in Orillia worked tirelessly to save her child care centre from closure when they were instructed to leave a beautiful custom build child care centre at the OPP Headquarters. Her work - with local families, the media and politicians - resulted in a provincial commitment to fund capital costs to build a new centre. Families in Orillia are so much better off because of Lucille's dedication and perseverance.
 
With that in mind, many local communities recognize local advocates and heroes for their dedication and commitment. If your community is honouring any local staff, please let us know. We will publicize local awards along with our award for advocacy.
 
To read our letter to Dr. Pascal, please click here.