Vernon, British Columbia
A Veteran of the Second World War with service overseas, Mr. Wright spent a lot of his time with Veterans in care facilities in Vernon, British Columbia. Mr. Wright was the founder of the Okanagan Quality Life Society, a group aiming to provide a unique form of recreation to senior citizens, particularly to those confined to care facilities. Under his leadership, the group purchased and renovated a pontoon boat which can accommodate wheelchair residents, enabling them to take part in recreational trips on Lake Okanagan in the summer months. Since it came into force in 1992, this initiative has been a tremendous success, yielding therapeutic benefits to participating residents. Through his many volunteer activities, Mr. Wright took a special interest in Veterans and visited them in long-term facilities on a regular basis. As Service Officer for his local Branch of The Royal Canadian Legion, Mr. Wright helped with fulfilling many of their needs, driving them to medical and other appointments, cheering them up and taking part in their outdoor activities. With the help of volunteers, Mr. Wright started a program with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, to take pets to long-term care institutions on a weekly basis. This program provides residents an opportunity to spend time with pets twice weekly, contributing in great part to lifting their spirits and improving their quality of life. An indefatigable volunteer, Mr. Wright received numerous awards over the years for his outstanding service to seniors, Veterans and the community.