Joe’s Place Youth Centre founder and director Joe Dueck has received an auspicious award from international non-profit organization World Vision.
“Well, I think it’s an honour, but of course it’s very humbling,” said Dueck, the recipient of the 2012 World Vision Youth World Changer award. “I don’t think I could have done this without others helping me out.”
Winning the award, which recognizes the work of an individual who has tried to effect positive change and improve the lives of youth, came as an absolute surprise, he said. “I had no idea who had nominated me, and to be honest, I didn’t even know about this award,” said Dueck.
Dueck said when the box containing the award arrived, he thought it was information on a new World Vision program. It wasn’t until an employee opened the box that he realized he had been nominated for — let alone won — the award, he said.
For himself, Dueck said the recognition is “a little awkward” because “I’m only human.”
Still, he said, the award represented a positive step forward for his organization and the cause of youth advancement and assistance in the Friendly City.
“If it can advance what we’re trying to do with the youth of this city, it’s a good thing,” said Dueck.
“We really believe in the youth of our city ... anything that can bring to light the fact that youth are the future of (Moose Jaw) is good.”
