United Way Youth Coordinator Wins Inclusion Award
Nov. 07, 2008
A local community worker has been honoured by the New Brunswick Association for Community Living (NBACL) for recognizing the valuable contributions of those with disabilities.
Paul Toner, who coordinates early, middle years and youth initiatives for the United Way of Greater Moncton and Southeastern New Brunswick Region, recently received a Champion of Community Inclusion award from the NBACL.
In the fall of 2007, Toner phoned the association in hopes of getting a recommendation of a young person who might be interested in joining the United Way’s Youth Relations Council.
“Paul believed in the importance of having someone on their committee who could represent youth with disabilities,” said Mélanie Grondin, Career Development Coordinator with NBACL. “After an interesting discussion with him, I suggested Carly Dewitt, a young woman with great communications skills and a strong sense of responsibility.”
A few weeks later, Dewitt attended her first Youth Relations Council meeting and decided to join.
“She was welcomed like any other member and was offered support for transportation,” said Grondin. “Paul recognized immediately her gifts; what she was able to offer to the group and what they would be receiving out of her active presence.”
Dewitt’s contributions to the United Way Youth Relations Council were noticed by many and after a short time, she was offered the opportunity and support to join some other committee members at a national roundtable in Ottawa entitled “Healthy Children, Healthy Communities: Working Together for Positive Community Development”, an event hosted by the United Nations’ Association in Canada.
During roundtable discussions, Dewitt shared her ideas and challenged others to consider new ways of thinking about accessibility for those with a disability. She continues to be a member of the United Way Youth Relations Council and share her voice to help create a better life for all youth in the region.
“I thought it was good that Paul received this award,” said Dewitt. “He’s so humble. He really helped me to connect to other people and helped me to improve my public speaking skills.”
United Way Executive Director Debbie McInnis said Toner works hard to help youth in the community realize their potential.
“Paul strongly believes that everyone has something to contribute,” said McInnis. “We’re fortunate to have him as part of our team since he really embodies the values of the United Way.”






