And your vote can help her (and the awesome YWCA programs she’s supporting) win
The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards began in 1984 to honour, encourage and recognize women whose outstanding activities and achievements contribute to the health and future of the community. Since then, YWCA Vancouver has honoured over 200 deserving women and workplaces.
Shirley is a deserving nominee. From a young age she has devoted herself to the health and futures of many communities, starting with Vancouver’s historic inner-city. As a student activist in the late 1960s she successfully challenged a freeway development that would have leveled much of Strathcona and Chinatown. This stands as a major turning point in the development of our city’s urban geography, enabling Vancouver to become the vibrant, low footprint, livable city we enjoy today; but for Shirley it was just the beginning of what continues to be a very accomplished and distinguished career in public service.
After working for Mayor Mike Harcourt as Vancouver’s first woman Chief of Staff, Shirley went on to become Manager of Non-Market Housing for the City of Vancouver, and later served as Health Canada’s Regional Director for BC & Yukon where she funded the Healthiest Babies Possible and Aboriginal Head Start programs. She also served on the UBC Board of Governors for 6 years including 2.5 years as Chair and today her commitment to education continues as a volunteer instructor at the Chinatown UBC Learning Exchange. Teaching and mentoring comes naturally to Shirley, who was recognized with a Public Service Commission Award for her commitment to mentoring upcoming professionals.
As CEO of Building Opportunities with Business Shirley was instrumental in the creation and management of Vancouver’s first Community Benefits Agreement, another landmark moment in the city’s urban development. She currently sits on the board of Learning for a Sustainable Future, and is the Trustee for the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden. By supporting Shirley’s nomination we also support the charity that she is raising awareness of through her nomination.
The YWCA’s early learning and care for children programs, providing enriched, nurturing environments for children at risk.
Vote for Shirley and for providing enriched nurturing environments for children at risk HERE
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