Employment advocates receive Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medals
Joe Dale, Bob Vansickle ‘making an important contribution to our society’
Wednesday June 20, 2012 -- Natalie Hamilton
Champions of meaningful employment for people who have a disability were among the Ontario residents honoured Monday evening with Queen's Diamond Jubilee medals.
Community Living Sarnia-Lambton supervisor of community employment options Bob Vansickle and Ontario Disability Employment Network executive director Joe Dale were two to receive the recognition. 
“I was thrilled to hear that Joe and Bob were being honoured with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal for their work in promoting employment for people with disabilities in Ontario,” Gordon Kyle, Community Living Ontario’s director of social policy and government relations, tells Community Living Leaders.
Kyle says both men have devoted many years of their time to the issue. Dale and Vansickle understand the challenges people face related to employment and have developed clear strategies to overcome the barriers.
“Through their talent in networking, their willingness to share their vast knowledge with others, and their passion and commitment, they are making an important contribution to our society. This recognition is well-deserved.”
The medal pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II's 60-year reign.
Other allies in the movement to create an inclusive workforce – Community Living London employment services supervisor Cheryl Massa; Tim Hortons franchisee Valarie Wafer and Cohen Higley; LLP partner Joe Hoffer; and long-time People First advocate Daniel Beimers — also received medals.
“I was so humbled to receive this recognition and am honoured to be in the company of so many dedicated and deserving people,” Massa tells Community Living Leaders.
“It is my hope that this medal increases awareness amongst the community and more people with a disability are able to realize their goal of meaningful employment.”
The Diamond Jubilee Gala ceremony took place at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto and included performances by Canadian artists, Susan Aglukark, Molly Johnson, Ben Heppner and Gordon Lightfoot.
- More to come
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