Ida Gerarda Weisse, Victoria, British Columbia
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award
Ida Weisse has volunteered for almost 30 years with USC Canada (formerly the Unitarian Service Committee of Canada), an organization that supports community-level projects in Africa, Asia and Central America. Initially, she sorted and repaired clothing to be shipped overseas. She later introduced the idea of fundraising and, among other activities, she and other members of the organization knit sweaters to sell in local malls. Thanks to her dedication and leadership, the Victoria group raises more funds than any other USC group in the country. Since 1976, she has also taught weaving to people with mental disabilities through the Laurel House program. It is her belief in social justice that keeps her working hard to help others at home and abroad.