L-R: Ellen Walker-Matthews stands with President, Chantelle Meriam, and Bob Van Balkom
Ellen Walker-Matthews was presented with Rotary District 5060's "Changemaker" Award at our morning breakfast meeting on May 22nd. The prestigious award is given to a Rotarian who has demonstrated the leadership and actions that have created significant change to improve their Rotary Club.
Ellen was presented with the award for spearheading and managing the Giants Head Grind along with her husband, Tom Matthews. The pair have worked together with the Rotary Club of Summerland and a very committed group of local Summerland residents and sponsors to make this race happen for the past five years. The race up Giant's Head Mountain was created to honour the memory of Ellen and Tom's son, Christopher Walker, who lost his battle with colon cancer in 2013.
Elle and Tom's goal is to showcase the beautiful Giant's Head Mountain and the community of Summerland, while raising funds for colon cancer detection, diagnostics and research. Proceeds of the race also provide funding for the upkeep and improvement of the trail system in Giant's Head Park with the support of the City of Summerland.
Congratulations on receiving Rotary District 5060's "Changemaker" award, Ellen. Greatly deserved!