CanMark was proud to be a Presenting Sponsor for the 2011 Gratitude Gala which took place on October 21st at the Pantages Playhouse.

The Gratitude Gala benefited “Skills Mentorship Program for Refugee Employment in Manitoba”. The initiative, as noted on the Canadian Centre for Refugee Employment website, functions in the following areas:

• Providing professional training to refugees through the Mentorship.
• Increasing employment among refugees living in Manitoba.
• Helping refugees become contributing members of their community and the economy.
• Relieving poverty among newcomers and the refugee community living in Manitoba.
• Increasing refugees understanding of important aspects of the Canadian workplace culture.

The event was highlighted by a keynote address from Montel Williams, world renowned as the host of his popular talk show which ran from 1991 to 2008 in syndication. Montel has been recognized multiple times for his work on the program, which included a Daytime Emmy in 1996. Since then, he hosted a radio show on the now defunct AirAmerica network and has had various acting gigs.

Most importantly, perhaps, Montel has been recognized as a major activist. He is the national spokesman for the U.S.-based Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) which helps low-income patients apply for reduced-priced prescription drugs.

The Gratitude Gala also included a musical performance by EXILE.Z.

CanMark continues to be committed to the Winnipeg community. Stay tuned to our blog to learn more about other events and community efforts we are involved in.