Windsor & District Labour Council & United Way present:
Charles E. Brooks Labour Community Service Award
Presented annually to a trade unionist in recognition of outstanding contributions in the area of voluntary community service.
2022 Recipient
Retired postal worker, Phil Lyons, is an avid community activist and former president of CUPW Local 630 and WDLC executive. His guidance and integrity, even in retirement sets him apart, inspiring so many to step up and use their voice(s). His charitable nature, and ever giving spirit made him the go-to when affiliates and allies needed a helping hand. A true believer in solidarity, Lyons demonstrates this while working behind the scenes and on the front lines of local campaigns, supporting allies to succeed.
“Phil’s creativity, leadership and tireless efforts in the community elevated the work he was doing as a postal worker president to new heights” Tish Glenn, Canadian Union of Postal Workers, Windsor Local 630 President.
In The News
September 26, 2022
Charles Brooks Award honours avid community activist
RELEASE – On Thursday, November 3, 2022, United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County, in partnership with the Windsor & District Labour Council (WDLC), will host the 45th annual Labour Appreciation Night at the Ciociaro Club of Windsor, honouring the recipient of the Charles E. Brooks Labour Community Service Award, Phil Lyons, CUPW Local 630.
Maureen Curtis was selected as the Keynote Speaker for this year’s event in collaboration with the award recipient, Phil Lyons. Both Phil and Maureen share the same the same social values and a firm belief that – as a community – everyone matters, and we are stronger when we work together
Maureen began her career at Wyeth Pharmaceutical in Windsor and worked there until their closure. Throughout her time at Wyeth, Maureen held many roles in her union, including Plant Chairperson. She also worked with the Adjustment Committee to support members in their transition to new employment or training programs.
From there, Maureen’s career path led her to United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County, where she served the community for 26 years as Manager of Labour Programs & Services. Throughout that time, Maureen delicately balanced her role that supported both the United Way and Labour movements in Windsor-Essex County.
For over two decades, Maureen dedicated her life to strengthening the ties between Labour and United Way to create positive change in the community. She facilitated the Workers Referral Assistance Program, and worked with unions and companies across the community. She also facilitated the Labour Community Advocate Training Program, where she educated over 700 labour representatives to become strong leaders and passionate advocates. Many of those labour representatives have gone on to become union leaders and community activists.
In 2013, Maureen received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal for her outstanding community service, and in 2018, she was honoured with the Gary L. Parent Activist Award from the Windsor & District Labour Council.
An intuitive, kind and compassionate leader, Maureen has been instrumental in developing, engaging and educating others to raise awareness of the issues facing people in the local community. She facilitated changed, provided encouragement and strengthened the shared work between the Labour Community, the Windsor & District Labour Council and United Way.
Event Contact
Labour Appreciation 2021
Last updated on October 18, 2022