Canadian singer Justin Hines honored with March of Dimes Award of Excellence

From JustinHines.com:

For his tireless work as an advocate and role model for people with disabilities, internationally-renowned singer-songwriter Justin Hines (pictured) was awarded the 2009 March of Dimes Canada Rick Hansen Award of Excellence.

When Rick Hansen completed his "Man in Motion" World Tour, he was honoured by March of Dimes at the Mayor's Civic Lunch. Arising from his accomplishment was the creation of the Rick Hansen Award of Excellence, which is presented periodically to the rare individual who has made outstanding contributions, or who has accomplished an outstanding achievement benefiting the cause of persons with physical disabilities internationally. Winners will have demonstrated by action and deed, the dedication and commitment exemplified by Rick Hansen, and be credited with an internationally recognized accomplishment in aid of people with physical disabilities.

The Rick Hansen Award of Excellence is not offered yearly, but rather to the select individuals, who like Justin; best personify the spirit of the Award. The last recipient of the Award was the Honourable David C. Onley, Ontario's Lieutenant Governor.

“We have been very fortunate to develop a wonderful relationship with both Justin and his management team over the last few years,” says Ruth Kapelus, Public Relations Coordinator for March of Dimes Canada.

“Justin is such an accomplished musician and it is rare to see someone with his talent and level of success determined to use this success to help others. He has supported March of Dimes at fundraisers, conferences and events and this is just a mere snapshot of his charitable endeavours. Justin touches people with his music, but for us at March of Dimes, we are even more deeply touched by his commitment to helping people with disabilities,” she continues.

Justin started his own charitable foundation at www.justinhines.org and also supports Variety Village, Reach for the Rainbow and a number of environmental causes.

In addition to the Rick Hansen Award of Excellence, Justin has been honoured with The Roger Abbott and Don Ferguson Easter Seals Award for Achievement in the Performing Arts, a YTV Achievement Award for Best Performance or Host in a Variety program or series, FACTOR (Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent on Record) Breakthrough Artist of the Year (2008) and a Gemini Award nomination.