Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award
Each year this award is presented to honour the efforts and contributions of a person, group or organization both Indigenous and non-Indigenous who have:
- Demonstrated leadership in building relationships between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities in Calgary
- Displayed a commitment to building bridges between the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities
- Supported and encouraged effective engagement and activities between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities
- Created and supported positive changes in their community
Recipients of the Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award
The 2022 Winner of Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award is Alvin Manitopyes
Alvin is of Plains Cree and Anishnawbe ancestry, a registered member of the Muskowekwan First Nation of Saskatchewan, Canada. He has experience in sharing his extensive knowledge of traditional teachings, culture, history, healing practices and spirituality at wellness and environmental conferences and workshops for Indigenous and non-Indigenous audiences throughout North America and abroad. He has considerable experience in advancing the social and economic development of First Nations through designing innovative capacity-building initiatives for several national and community-based organizations. Alvin co-founded several social and educational organizations in Calgary such as the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School. He also has 25 years of experience managing Indigenous economic development projects and social programs in areas of project and community development, primarily as a consultant for the Public Health Agency of Canada, Employment & Immigration Commission, and Secretary of State. Alvin received his certification in Indigenous Leadership, Governance, and Management Excellence from the Banff Centre. He is owner and operator of Earthcode Enterprises Ltd, a consulting firm that assists First Nations Bands to get involved in the hemp industry. Alvin is an accomplished traditional dancer on the North American pow-wow circuit and is a part time actor.
As a father, a friend, a mentor, and a leader, the impact Alvin has had on building capacity within his community and creating bridges with other communities in Calgary will be felt for generations to come.
Award recipients:
2022: Alvin Manitopyes
2021: Christy Morgan
2020: Colleen Runner Waskewitch
2019: Steve Kootenay-Jobin
2018: Shawna Morning Bull
2017: Elaine Cairns
2016: Shawna Cunningham
2015: USAY/UofC; Uncovering Colonial Legacies
2014: Cindy Provost
2013: Carol Mason
2012: Leonard Bastien
2011: Mike Lickers
2010: Sandra Crazy Bull
2009: Vinnia Van Over Dyke
2008: Gloria Skinner
2007: Audrey Weasel Traveller
2006: Al Duerr
2005: Major Ed Boucher, (Retired)
2004: Ghost River Rediscovery
2002: Mr. Geoff Burtonshaw
2001: Mr. Pablo Russell, Mr. Michael Robinson
2000: Mr. Harry Huish
1999: Rev. Margaret Waterchief, Mr. Casey Eagle Speaker
1998: Mrs. Annie Bare Shin Bone
1997: Mr. Art Cunningham
1996: Ms. Joan Ryan
1995: Mr. Tom Jackson
1994: Mr. George Calliou
1993: Aboriginal Opportunities Committee - Chamber of Commerce
1992: Mr. Ronald Vivier
1991: Ms. Doreen Spence
1990: Mr. Harold Millican
1989: Calgary Indian Friendship Centre
1988: Mr. Hart A. Cantelon
1987: Mr. Nelson Gutnick
1986: Ms. Pauline Gladstone-Dempsey
Information about the Aboriginal Youth Achievement Award can be found here.