The Manitoba College of Social Workers (MCSW) and the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) are pleased to announce John Smyth, MSW, RSW, as the Manitoba recipient of the 2023 CASW Distinguished Service Award.
John served as Executive Director of the Aurora Family Therapy for ten years and through his compassion and commitment, John spearheaded several programs to serve the needs of the newcomer community.
In 2016 John was one of four Canadians accepted into Harvard University Medical School’s Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery Certificate Program. As a result of the inspiration drawn from this specialized program, John and his staff developed Aurora into one of the largest refugee-serving centres in Manitoba.
In addition to his work at Aurora, John was involved in establishing the Ethnocultural Council of Manitoba, a coalition of 40 ethnocultural community organizations coming together in unity to advocate for their common goals and address their common challenges.
“John deserves the recognition of the CASW Distinguished Service award for his inspiring leadership; the development, creation and implementation of unique programs and services; the empowering of many marginalized and oppressed people, often on human rights grounds, and for having a positive impact on ten to twenty thousand people in Manitoba including thousands of refugees.” (Nominator, Ellen Gordon)
MCSW and CASW extends their appreciation to John for his incredibly important contributions to the social work profession and the communities he serves. MCSW/CASW look forward to honouring John at the Member Appreciation Networking Event, March 16, 2023 at The Leaf, Assiniboine Park.