Volunteer Spotlight

Nov 7, 2024

 Dan Blackwell, Volunteer of the Year Award, sponsored by Cowan Insurance

We recognize the Volunteer of the Year Award recipient: Dan Blackwell, Blue Mountain Squadron, Georgian Trent District. Nominated by: Elaine Mundle

Dan has committed his time and expertise in many ways to the organization. He is a Past Squadron and District Commander who has held many positions on both the squadron and district levels. In addition to his many administrative roles, he has been a steadfast instructor for both the classroom and online courses. Over the years he has taught Seamanship, Weather, Boat Maintenance, Maritime Radio, Basic Navigation, and Boat Handling. Dan is always ready to volunteer his time whenever requested to assist the squadron and district. One member remarked “there are not enough merit marks to give Dan for the time he commits to the squadron.

Martha Scott, Officer of the Year Award, sponsored by Alex Milne and Associates Ltd.

We recognize the Officers of the Year: Martha Scott, Peterborough Squadron, Quinte District. Nominated by: Gina Lee

Martha is devoted to CanBoat / NautiSavoir’s mission to teach safe boating, and her devotion is shown in many ways. She encourages the squadron to offer Boating courses on a regular basis and participates as an instructor or proctor. She ensures all members of the Education team have the proper tools and system access they need to deliver a high-quality program for the students. She has provided leadership in the squadrons RVCC and Flare return programs. Martha participated in Paris Marine’s Women Making Waves a one day on the water seminar which is offered to women free of charge. She takes a hands-on approach to any task, project or initiative be it Squadron, District or National.

David Allester, Instructor of the Year Award, sponsored by Wheems & Plath

We recognize the instructors of the year. David Allester, Brockville Squadron, Rideau District. Nominated by: Axel Obenauf

David has been active with the Brockville Squadron since 2014 in various roles. Currently he is the District and Squadron’s Education Officer where he coordinates courses and resources, such as the sharing of simulators and instructors in collaboration with Brockville, Ottawa, and Kingston Squadrons.

He was instrumental in setting up a model whereby Rideau District schedules and lists the courses that are to be offered throughout the year. The 3 squadrons share resources and revenue. David is the lead instructor for B2B3 and is part of the Seamanship B4 rewrite committee. He is one of the principals in the rewriting of the District Policy Manual and preparation of the District Financial Budget.

David is very much a team player and always available to offer his assistance or opinion when asked.