The president and CEO of the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce has been named the 2019 Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year.
John Hopkins will receive the award on November 8 at the annual Power of Humanity Awards Reception in Regina.
“I was absolutely speechless,” said Hopkins, talking about the moment he found out he won the award. “I thought they must have made a mistake, but upon a little more reflection, I’m deeply honoured to have received this.”
According to a release from the Canadian Red Cross, Hopkins will receive the award for his dedication to helping others by promoting health and building peace through reconciliation.
A quick story on John’s life provided by the Red Cross:
- Early in life, Hopkins struggled with an addictions issue that left him homeless on several occasions. Since getting clean over 35 years ago, he has become a strong advocate for recovery programs and helping others through the recovery process.
- Hopkins has also demonstrated his dedication to reconciliation by being a founding member of Reconciliation Regina, organizing the annual Smudge Walk in Regina’s North Central and working alongside Cowessess First Nation in a variety of ways.
- He helped shape the Regina Homelessness Strategy and served on numerous boards and councils. Hopkins also advocates for mental health and raises money for the Allan Blair Cancer Centre.
- He is extremely passionate about music, physical fitness and his family which includes his wife Taya and his six children.
The awards reception goes November 8 at Regina’s Ramada Plaza Hotel.