'Prayer is action': Mitch Bourbonniere, 11 others, to receive Order of Manitoba

A Winnipeg man who says volunteering saved his life is being awarded Manitoba's highest honour by Lt.-Gov. Janice C. Filmon.

Twelve individuals are being celebrated for their work in communities across Manitoba.

Mitch Bourbonniere is among the recipients of the Order of Manitoba this year in recognition of his community efforts. For Bourbonniere, his journey in social work began by volunteering at an inner-city youth drop-in ran by a nun.

"I did not feel very good about myself but when I started volunteering at a very young age, it kind of saved my life," Bourbonniere says. He adds that his first opportunity to volunteer was at Rosebrook House in Winnipeg.

Sister Geraldine MacNamara established the drop-in facility in 1976.

Every step I take, every action I do, working hard for me is prayer. I dedicate my life to being of service to others."

Bourbonniere says that he takes every opportunity to serve in his community and looks for opportunities to do so. He says listening to the needs of communities is key.

"That is how Bear Clan was started all those years ago, we listened to the community and we responded."

By listening, Bourbonniere says he has learned many things from people from all walks of life.

"I am just so blessed to see the resiliency of people who have suffered and yet have the ability to survive."

Bourbonniere says that by communication, you can better understand how to serve communities.

The Lieutenant Governor is also recognizing 11 other Manitobans for their contributions to the province. Wednesday's announcement coincides with the 150th anniversary of The Manitoba Act coming into effect on July 15, 1870, and the 100th anniversary of the opening of the Manitoba Legislative Building in 1920.

This year's 2020 Order of Manitoba recipients include: