Gravenhurst, May 5, 2008 - The 2007 Taylor Award was presented to Mr. Harry Spencer during a ceremony in Gravenhurst, Ontario on May 2, 2008. This award is presented annually to an outstanding volunteer with the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) who has shown admirable dedication in the service of volunteerism to corrections.
"I would like to personally thank Mr. Spencer for his ongoing dedication and perseverance in making significant contributions to the public safety of Canadians," stated CSC Commissioner Keith Coulter. "His commitment to helping offenders become law-abiding citizens is remarkable. We are truly thankful for the support and devotion of Canadians like Harry."
Mr. Spencer began volunteering at the Ontario Correctional Institute in Brampton, Ontario 61 years ago. Throughout his long tenure as a volunteer, he has helped offenders change their lives and become law-abiding citizens.
Mr. Spencer has been a volunteer with CSC at Beaver Creek Institution for 18 years and at Fenbrook institution for 10 years, where he conducts Bible Studies, leads participants in prayer and is a caring mentor. He also regularly conducts worship services in both institutions.
Aside from the work he does inside the institutions, Mr. Spencer has helped numerous offenders find employment in the community. His long-term dedication has helped many offenders become contributing members of society.
In 2001, CSC, in conjunction with the National Volunteer Association, created and presented the Taylor Award to Dr. Charles and Mrs. Charlotte Taylor to mark their lifetime commitment to offenders. The annual selection process is based on criteria highlighting the values set out by Dr. Charles and Mrs. Charlotte Taylor.
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For further information, please contact:
Annette Allen
Assistant Warden, Management Services
Correctional Service of Canada
Fenbrook Institution
(705) 687-1742
