Mapleton council approves John Ford Kindness Award
MAPLETON – A new award will highlight Mapleton residents who make a positive difference to those around them and embody the values of the late John Ford.
Well-known and loved in the community, Ford worked at Drayton Foodland for 36 years until he died in March of 2024 at age 64.
"The John Ford Kindness Award honours the legacy of John Ford, a beloved member of the Township of Mapleton community, whose life exemplified quiet generosity, genuine humility, and a deep-rooted kindness toward others,” states a report about the new award.
Mapleton council approved the award criteria during a March 10 council meeting.
Councillor Marlene Ottens suggested an award be created in Ford’s name in April 2024 and said she’s “really happy that this is finally coming to pass.”
“I really look forward to seeing who and what the community nominates in this process,” she said.
“We know that our community is filled with a lot of great people, and this is a way to find out.”
Mayor Gregg Davidson said he’s been speaking with John’s sister, Bonnie, who said “John would be quite happy” with the award criteria.
The award is open to Mapleton residents of any age who demonstrate quiet generosity, humility, politeness and kindness, genuine interest in others, community spirit and love for life.
To nominate someone for the award, write up to 500 words describing why they deserve the award and how they demonstrate the above qualities, including specific examples of actions, words or spirit that reflect Ford’s legacy.
Letters of support from others who have been positively impacted by the nominee can also be included.
The deadline for nominations is April 30.
The recipient will be chosen by the township’s community awards and recognition committee, which includes CAO Manny Baron, treasurer Patrick Kelly, public works director Jamie Morgan, clerk Larry Wheeler and community services manager Amy Grose.
The winner will be presented an engraved plaque during a Mapleton council meeting, and an engraved plaque will be permanently displayed in the township office lobby “to celebrate and convey the significance of the John Ford award ... (and) keep record and continuously honour annual recipients.”
