Saint John Business People Honoured By YMCA
SAINT JOHN – Two business heavy-weights in Saint John are being recognized for their work in the community.
On Wednesday the The YMCA of Greater Saint John announced the recipients of the Red Triangle and Leader to Watch Awards.
This year the Red Triangle Award recognizes long and meritorious service, outstanding contributions and achievement in the community. John K.F. Irving is this year’s recipient.
Irving is the president of Ocean Capital Investments Limited, which owns and operates a variety of companies including real estate, radio broadcasting, industrial distribution, energy and construction businesses. Irving has served on the board of a variety of charities and foundations and is active on a number of university committees.
“He’s always volunteered in our community, but he does so many other things that I’m sure we don’t know about that he does under the radar,” said Shilo Boucher, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Saint John . “Because he does believe in Saint John and he believes in our province and he’s out there building up Saint John. The Y is about building healthy communities and I can’t think of anybody else who’s doing that as much as he is right now.”
The Leader to Watch Award recognizes a young individual who is a role model for other young adults in the community. This year it’s going to Craig Estabrooks, manager of corporate strategy for Port Saint John. Estabrooks is an active volunteer, serving on various committees and supporting a number of organizations, including the Crescent Valley Resource Centre and the YMCA.
“Just from the experience I’ve had on all these boards, it’s the collective brain power of people who are willing to volunteer that make things happen,” Estabrooks said. “So I can offer just a small piece, and other people offer different pieces as well, but when we comes together, that’s when we can really get the really good ideas and move the organization forward. “
Boucher said when people in the business community volunteer, everyone benefits.
“It’s the knowledge that they can bring and help keep organizations strong and keeping them moving forward. It allows connections within the community as well,” she said. “It’s a win-win for the organization and the people but the skills that both John and Craig can bring to the table are definitely something every organization needs.”
Irving and Estabrooks will receive their awards at the Red Triangle event this Spring in Saint John.