Winnipeg, MB - City of Winnipeg employee Karen Beaudin was inducted into the Order of Manitoba in a ceremony last night at the Manitoba Legislative Building. Beaudin, Community Resource Coordinator with the City’s Community Services department and proud Manitoba Métis, was honoured for increasing support, understanding and respect for Indigenous people in the workforce and her ongoing service to the community.
In 2002, Beaudin initiated the City's Aboriginal Employee Group, serving as its spokesperson. Founded to provide Indigenous employees with information about training, education and scholarship opportunities, the Group also works to dispel any negative stereotypes about the community among co-workers. A proud supporter of the Métis movement, Karen Beaudin has given numerous hours to various Métis events. She has also given her time to many community organizations including serving as a member of the Métis Child, Family and Community Services board. She is currently active on two boards in Winnipeg's North End including Ikwe Widdjiitwin, an Indigenous women and children's crisis shelter, on which she is vice-chair. Karen Beaudin's commitment to youth is longstanding. A dedicated foster parent, she is also a volunteer soccer coach for a female 14 and under team from Central Community Centre.
The Order of Manitoba, the Province's highest honour, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field of endeavour, benefiting the social, cultural or economic well-being of Manitoba and its residents.