Brian Cleaver, a long-time member of the Sardis Kiwanis Club and a strong advocate for Special Olympics, has been recognized for exceptional volunteerism with the award of the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.
Passion, dedication and a commitment to community are the driving forces behind the volunteers who receive the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. The medal recognizes the exceptional volunteer achievements of Canadians from across the country in a wide range of fields and pays tribute to the dedication and commitment of volunteers. They embody the caring country we aspire to build. The award is a hard-earned honour, given to people who ‘have made a significant, sustained and unpaid contribution to their community, in Canada or abroad.
“Brian challenged the prevailing mid-set of the day, one that claimed it was the disability itself that prevented children as well as youth and adults from fully participating in play and recreation. Brian felt it was simply a lack of opportunity, and given that opportunity, people with intellectual disabilities could acquire all the necessary skills to participate in sports and become physically fit.” Brian Cleaver has been a member of a local Kiwanis club for 41 years - almost since its inception - and served as president for one year in 1981-82. During his four-plus decades with the Sardis Kiwanis Club, he has worked countless hours on projects that benefit local youth. But his greatest passion is for Special Olympics. Brian was instrumental in bringing the Special Olympics program to Chilliwack.
Bruce Oakley, nominator Peter Somers,
Brian Cleaver and nominator
Derek Fryer.
Brian started by introducing floor hockey, followed soon after by bowling, swimming, soccer, track and field and other sports. He dedicated himself to raising money so Chilliwack athletes could compete at the provincial, national and international levels.
Brian also initiated the annual Sardis Kiwanis Club July 1 Pancake Breakfast, with profits going to purchase equipment and pay travel costs for Special Olympians. Until recently, he also chaired the annual Sardis Kiwanis Kids Christmas Party, and has been a key supporter of Meals on Wheels.
Brian is a retired Master Warrant Officer who served a full career with the Canadian Military Engineers, He is active in supporting local Retired Sapper activities and reunions. Brian also actively supports the work of the Canadian Forces Base Chilliwack Historical Society, that maintains and displays archives to preserve the history of the Canadian Military Engineers. He was awarded a CMEA Commendation in 2005 in recognition of many years of dedicated support and leadership that he has provided to Retired Sappers Reunion and Sapper Apprentice Reunion committees and contributing to their successful functions.
…….“He gives with his heart and rarely, if ever, asks for anything in return.”
Extracted from Chilliwack Progress report by Eric Welsh
The CMEA joins with Brian's friends, colleagues and comrades is congratulating him on receiving this award. He is an example for all. Read the full story in the Chilliwack Progress article, Chilliwack’s Brian Cleaver awarded Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.
Click here to read more about the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers including awards to CME family members.