Louise Joanne Twerdy (July 26, 1967 – October 11, 2014) was a compassionate voice for victims/survivors of impaired driving and a powerful leader whose determination was instrumental in legislative changes that improved Canada’s impaired driving laws, police enforcement powers and the judicial system. She came to MADD Canada after her 16-year old son, Mike, was killed by an impaired driver in 1999. In the years following Mike’s death, both Louise and her other son, Erik, were injured in separate impaired driving crashes. In 2000, Louise led the establishment of the MADD St. Paul Chapter in Alberta and in 2001 she was elected National President of MADD Canada. After her term as President, Louise took on the role of MADD Canada Chapter Services Manager – Western Region. She supported existing MADD Canada Chapters and Community Leaders, built MADD Canada’s presence in new communities, promoted legislative and enforcement initiatives, and, most importantly, ensured that victims/survivors of impaired driving received the support they needed. The Louise Joanne Twerdy Leadership Bursary in the amount of $8,000 will be awarded to one student each year who aspires to have the same leadership, dedication and compassion that Louise Twerdy exhibited throughout her lifetime.
Additional bursaries of $4,000 will also be awarded each year.
Website: http://madd.ca/pages/programs/youth-services/youth-bursary-fund/
Deadline: May 31 of each year