The Kiwanis Club of Brampton celebrated outstanding community service at its annual volunteer awards luncheon on Sunday, May 25, by presenting the prestigious George W. Harley Award for Community Volunteerism to Dr. Daniel W. Cowans Sr. The ceremony recognized several local volunteers and community partners who have made a lasting impact across the region.

Dr. Cowans, a certified Christian counselor and psychotherapist who holds a PhD in Psychology, was recognized for more than two decades of dedicated service with RESQ Youth International. Through his work in the organization’s Restorative Justice Counselling Program, he has provided compassionate and culturally grounded support to Black youth and families in Brampton. His contributions have been central to youth crime prevention and intervention efforts, creating safe environments where young people can reflect, heal, and grow.

The Kiwanis Club also presented a $1,500 cheque to RESQ Youth International in honour of Dr. Cowans’ longstanding affiliation and leadership. Colleagues and community members described him as a mentor and advocate whose commitment has strengthened not only individual lives, but also families and the broader Black community. His work aligns closely with the organization’s mission to “break down barriers and build bridges.”

The event was emceed by local lawyer Wesley Jackson and featured a keynote address from Lieutenant Governor Francesco Coccimiglio of Kiwanis Division 9, who praised all the honourees for their dedication to community service and volunteerism.

In addition to Dr. Cowans, the luncheon also recognized several other exemplary volunteers, each nominated by local community organizations. Agatha Ashton Monaghan and Brandon McMonagle were honoured for their mentorship work with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peel York. Marvarie Denhart-Raghunath was acknowledged for her contributions to the Cobra Swim Club, and Elaine McClymont was celebrated for her volunteer work with Regeneration Outreach Community.

The George W. Harley Award, named in honour of a longstanding community volunteer, is given annually to individuals whose service reflects an unwavering commitment to improving lives and building stronger, more inclusive communities. This year, Dr. Cowans’ decades of work and mentorship stood out as a model of professional integrity and heartfelt dedication.

#BlackExcellence #BramptonHeroes #Volunteerism #YouthMentorship #KiwanisClub #CommunityLeader #RESQYouth

  Brampton