LEWISPORTE — As a pillar of the community, Reverend Arthur Elliott has made a significant impact not only in his spiritual guidance of the community, but as an advocate for social, health and economic issues for Lewisporte and the region as a whole.
On June 1 Rev. Elliott was recognized for his contributions at the 2011 Seniors of Distinction Awards. He was one of seven individuals (selected from a pool of 123 nominees) from across the province to receive the award.
“The seven men and women honoured today represent the very best in community involvement, dedication and participation and have been recognized for their continued work in their communities,” said Health and Community Services Minister Jerome Kennedy. “Seniors throughout Newfoundland and Labrador help make positive contributions to our communities and our province.”
Nomination
Rev. Elliott was nominated by the Town of Lewisporte, with letters of support coming from Mayor Brian Peckford and Lewisporte and Area Chamber of Commerce president Maisie Clark.
The accomplishments and community contributions of Rev. Elliott were highlighted, especially those over the last number of years where he has played an integral role in seeing the successful conclusion on a number of important and varied files that directly impact the area.
He has been on the front lines of promoting the necessity of a one-roof health care centre; lobbying for the retention of the Sir Robert Bond on the Lewisporte to Labrador Coastal Service; spearheading the campaign to prevent the loss of the X-ray and laboratory services; and promoting the concept of regional cooperation.
In the past he was been one of the founders for a number of important community initiatives in Lewisporte including the development of North Haven Manor and the Calypso Foundation.
He continues to serve a vital role for many groups and organizations. Currently Rev. Elliott is the chairperson of the Lewisporte Area Economic Development Committee and is the nominee of the Chamber to the board of directors of the Gander International Airport Authority.
In relaying some of the involvements of Rev. Elliott, it should be noted that this is an overview and not all inclusive of his contributions. Space would not permit to list them all, but know that they are numerous. What makes his contributions even more noteworthy is that the majority of this has been a volunteer effort.
In his working career, Rev. Elliott has done everything from being a prison guard to coal salvager. He has been a principal and Minister with The United Church of Canada.
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