• Awarded on: December 4, 2003

Elizabeth A. M. Waters, Hamilton, Ontario
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award

With her contagious smile and exuberance, Elizabeth Waters has been giving to her community for years with outstanding dedication. The first person with Down syndrome to pass the lifeguarding exams at Hamilton's YWCA, she has volunteered since 1988 as a swimming instructor for persons with disabilities. She volunteers at a nursing home and assists others in the community by preparing meals and caring for pets. She helps shut-ins and people living with cancer by doing household chores. Miss Waters encourages and motivates others to try harder and make the most of their abilities. With the Girl Guides, she has a special gift for encouraging girls who are withdrawn. She brings her enthusiasm and commitment to excellence to everything she undertakes.