At the city’s annual reception, Mayor Janice Morrison awarded three Sustainable Leadership Awards to groups and individuals who deliver creative solutions to move Nelson towards its vision of being prosperous and resilient.
One of the three recipients was Nelson’s Street Outreach Team, comprised of Jeremy Kelly, Lyann Hunter, and Ryall Giuliano.
The team was established in 2016 and provides a “caring, comprehensive, and direct response” according to its website, to the needs of Nelson’s unhoused and marginalized community members.
Morrison was excited to present the award to the organization, stating that the team has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the well-being of the community, becoming a proud example of how to put action into practice.
“It’s not easy to put into words the depth of passion and dedication this team pours into our community on a daily basis. They willingly show us some of the toughest front-line challenges, confronting situations that many of us can scarcely comprehend,” she said
“From addiction and poverty to overdose and sometimes death, we cannot truly comprehend what it takes to throw on that backpack, walk the town, and build relationships with someone who has been forgotten or left behind.”
Over the last year, the Street Outreach Program has played a significant role in bridging the gap between authority and the marginalized community.
The team assisted the city, police, and fire department during two homeless camp cleans throughout the year, acting as a liaison between city officials and the unhoused community to ensure the needs of both parties were achieved compassionately.
Jeremy Kelly says the compassion and collaboration he’s helped create in the community over the last year is what he’s most proud of.
“I am proud of how we’ve sort of leveled the playing field. We’ve worked really hard to break down the walls and the stigma towards the unhoused population in our community and re-establishing the rapport with the service providers who we work with so closely on a daily basis. Without their support for those people, we wouldn’t be able to do the job.”
He added that receiving the award reaffirms that what his organization brings to the community is of value.
“I feel very honored to be recognized. We’ve been working tirelessly in this community to try to make a difference for the last eight years and it’s nice to be recognized for that.”
Dan Thompson, of Rockform Solutions, and George Chandler, a renowned volunteer and member of Nelson’s Sunday Town Square Organizing Committee, were the other two award recipients.
Thompson was recognized for his active participation in the city’s carbon advisory group, advocating for the responsible use of concrete using low-carbon concrete alternatives.
Chandler received the award for his advocacy for public spaces, recognizing the vital role they play in community spirit and environmental consciousness.
All three recipients took home a plaque and $1,150 to contribute to their work in the community.
