Sailors nail it home for HeroWork

HeroWork volunteers gather for a group photograph after completing a Radical Renovation at the Mustard Seed Food Bank in October 2018. Photo by Terri Kott, HeroWork

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~

Two sailors were recognized by local charity HeroWork for their outstanding volunteer efforts.

Master Seaman Jean-Luc Larocque and Lieutenant Commander Mai Guo were honoured with a Golden Hammer Award in HeroWork’s March 13 awards ceremony at the Sticky Wicket pub in downtown Victoria.

They both received awards for their on ongoing hard work and dedication, including the charitable organization’s latest Radical Renovation of the Mustard Seed Food Bank last fall. 

MS Larocque began volunteering for the charity five years ago and has worked on five renovation projects.

“Volunteering and offering my time to the community is a normal thing for me. So, I was really surprised and wasn’t expecting to receive any formal recognition for this work,” said MS Larocque.

He began his volunteer work over 20 years ago when he joined the volunteer fire department in his hometown Gatineau, Que. In 2006, he was given Gatineau’s volunteer firefighter of the year award and volunteer of the year award.

Lieutenant (Navy) Colin Dudeck accepted a Golden Hammer on behalf of CFB Esquimalt and Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services’ charity Boomer’s Legacy. Lt(N) Dudeck has volunteered on many projects and has been the charity’s Base Liaison, helping bring on board countless sailors to the renovation projects.

Paul Latour, HeroWork founder and CEO, congratulated the sailors for their work. The renovation projects have always relied on a strong showing from military and civilian volunteers from CFB Esquimalt and the “impactful” financial support from Boomer’s Legacy, he said.

“It’s been an honour to work with our military on many charity renovations who have been an integral part of HeroWork’s success. Our community is stronger because of our partnership.”

Latour also announced at the awards ceremony that LCdr (Retired) Rob Petitpas has accepted a full-time position as HeroWork’s Director of Projects.

For more information about Hero Work and how to get involved visit their website: www.herowork.com