Ward 2 Civic Hero Award presented to Deborah McCracken-Nangereke

April 3, 2019 10:00 a.m.
Local resident improving and transforming lives around the world
 
Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Ward 2 Councillor Tony Carella and Members of Council, celebrated the accomplishments of Deborah McCracken-Nangereke, recipient of the 2018 Ward 2 Civic Hero Award. Surrounded by friends and family, Ms. McCracken-Nangereke was honoured during a meeting of ​Committee of the Whole (Public Hearing) on April 2.
 
A resident of Ward 2, Ms. McCracken-Nangereke founded The Olive Branch for Children (TOBFC) in 2005. This international non-governmental organization helps remote villages in Tanzania establish programs that support vulnerable residents. TOBFC focuses on HIV/AIDS prevention and care; early childhood education; food security; environmental issues; gender equality; and vulnerable children and women. The goal is to establish programs which empower communities and establish best practices that can be replicated throughout Tanzania and beyond.
 
In February 2019, Councillor Carella brought forward a Member’s Resolution to formally nominate Ms. McCracken-Nangereke for this recognition. As part of Ms. McCracken-Nangereke's unwavering heroism, she works closely with local Montessori schools to educate students about her work at TOBFC and to inspire people to get involved. Through her noble work and steadfast commitment to this organization, Ms. McCracken-Nangereke helps more than 85,000 innocent lives on an annual basis.
 
TOBFC is a recipient of Mayor Bevilacqua’s Spirit of Generosity initiative. The Vaughan-Wambilo Montessori Kindergarten opened in August 2012 through support from the annual Mayor’s Gala and Golf events. It is one of 22 schools established by TOBFC in Tanzania.
 
QUOTES
 
“I want to offer my sincere congratulations to Deborah McCracken-Nangereke for receiving the Ward 2 Civic Hero Award, as well as my gratitude for the important humanitarian work she undertakes in Tanzania. Vaughan is a progressive community blessed with people who are truly caring, selfless and compassionate. Ms. McCracken-Nangereke is an example of the spirit of generosity that thrives in our city. Her conviction and passion for helping children and families in remote areas of Tanzania has made her an inspiration to the citizens of her hometown and to the entire global community. Ms. McCracken-Nangereke’s story is moving.  Her vision is inspiring. Her cause is noble and enduring.”
-  Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua
 
“I want to personally congratulate Deborah McCracken-Nangereke for earning the 2018 Ward 2 Civic Hero Award. The Olive Branch for Children is safeguarding and elevating the quality of life for countless children each day. It is a local institution that is celebrated around the world. It is humbling to try and comprehend all the children that have been helped; all the hearts that have been healed; and all the opportunities and dreams that have been realized, because of the work of Ms. McCracken-Nangereke and her dedicated team from The Olive Branch for Children.”
-  Ward 2 Councillor Tony Carella
 
QUICK FACTS
 
  • The Civic Hero Award is presented annually to residents from each of Vaughan’s five wards.
  • The awards recognize outstanding achievement and individual contributions to the community.
  • The Order of Vaughan is the highest honour the City of Vaughan may present.
  • Since 2011, the efforts and events of the Spirit of Generosity have raised more than $30 million. Proceeds have gone to help more than 150 not-for-profit and community organizations that play a vital role in shaping the city of Vaughan.
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