
The CEO of the ASK Wellness Society in Kamloops, Bob Hughes, is one of 98 Canadians who will receive Meritorious Service Decorations from the Governor General of Canada.
Hughes is being recognized for ‘guiding ASK Wellness Society through a major transformation that focused on harm reduction and stable housing solutions for vulnerable individuals’, according to a statement from the society.
“As you can imagine, I was overwhelmed. I had thought they were calling for a reference for someone else,” he said. “I thought of my kids and my family and how they would be proud of me; in particular, my mom who believed in giving more than taking.”
Hughes was nominated for the award by former ASK Wellness board member, Chris Rose.
“I nominated him because he is a great person who deserves recognition for the remarkable job that he has done with ASK Wellness and his dedication to the disadvantaged and homeless, people who really need someone in their corner to fight for them,” Rose said, in a statement.
“He is the best person that one could have for a CEO, as his feistiness and determination make him unstoppable in any battle he faces. His dedication can be seen in terms of his ability to knock on every door and do anything in his power to improve the lives of the people he supports.”
Hughes started with the ASK Wellness Society as the Executive Director in 2007.
The Meritorious Service Decorations recognize people for their work that has brought benefit or honour to Canada, whether it be on focused on advocacy projects, health care initiatives, or contributions to the arts.
(Photo via ASK Wellness Society)