What do a former mayor, a dedicated advocate and a community leader all have in common?
They have been named the 2024 recipients of the Order of Moncton, the city’s highest honour.
“We have an outstanding group of inductees this year,” Moncton Mayor Dawn Arnold said in a news release.
“John, George and Debby have each given back to our community in unique ways and all three have made a lasting impact. We are proud to recognize them with the City’s top honour.”
George LeBlanc
George LeBlanc served three terms as a councillor from 1995 to 2004 and two as mayor from 2008 to 2016.
LeBlanc led the city during the 2014 Moncton shootings and was described as a “calm and steadying influence.”
“He effectively led the city not only during the initial days of the tragedy but in the weeks and months that followed, bringing the shattered community together and helping it get back on its feet,” said a news release from the city.
LeBlanc championed the Avenir Centre project during his time as mayor and created the Order of Moncton during his first term.
Outside of council, he was deeply involved in the community, particularly with Moncton Headstart, where he served on the board for many years.
Debby Warren
Debby Warren has served as executive director of ENSEMBLE Moncton, formerly known AIDS Moncton, for nearly three decades.
The city news release described Warren as someone who has “fearlessly tackled some of the most difficult societal issues.”
“She was an advocate for those with HIV/AIDS at a time when individuals living with the illness were ostracized from their families, health care, and other supports,” said the release.
“In response to the elevated suicide risk among 2SLGBTQI+ youth, Warren developed the Safe Space Program, which provided vital support, education, resources, and guidance to hundreds of youth, their families, and teachers, as well as the broader public.”
Warren has also provided essential support to those struggling with addiction, advocating for and leading harm reduction programs, raising awareness of the needs of these individuals, and promoting public understanding.
“The programs and initiatives developed under her direction as executive director of ENSEMBLE Greater/Grand Moncton have impacted countless lives,” said the release.
John Dallaire
John Dallaire is “the type of citizen every city wishes they had more of,” said the release, which notes he has helped raise more than $400,000 for several community initiatives.
Dallaire and a group of friends organized the Three Mountain Relay – Relais trois montagnes after witnessing the stigma surrounding mental health and the difficulties in accessing services,
“The event has become not only a fundraiser but a catalyst for mental health advocacy,” said the release.
Dallaire and his group have also found ways to financially support breakfast programs in schools where the need was greatest.
They also founded the 8 at 8 program, where people gather every Saturday morning at the YMCA for a run or walk.
“This event, which has become a staple in the lives of many, fosters inclusivity by bringing together newcomers, locals, and regulars of all ages,” the release said.
Participants are encouraged to donate $2, with the funds matched annually by local businesses and used to buy grocery cards for schools in need.
Recipients receive a medal, a pin and a certificate of honour at the formal induction ceremony at Moncton City Hall on Dec. 11.
The ceremony will be livestreamed on the City of Moncton’s YouTube channel beginning at 7 p.m. A public reception will take place at 8 p.m. at City Hall.
