Order of Sancta Barbara - Winner 2002
Mary “Jean” BelangerRichmond, British Columbia
“In recognition of a lifelong commitment to charity, community service and the advancement of young people, as well as her contributions to the Canadian mining industry through the communities in which she lived.”
Jean Belanger has had a lifelong commitment to volunteerism, beginning with the Women’s Air Corp during World War II and in her activities with numerous organizations wherever she has lived. Jean has always been active with the ladies auxiliary of the local hospital and volunteered at the local library. Other organizations have included the IODE, Canadian Kidney Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, and Red Cross Blood Drives. She started her involvement in the mining industry of Canada in the early 1950s while supporting her husband, Arnie Belanger, in his activities with the CIM, PDAC and BC and Yukon Chamber of Mines. Jean then joined the Women’s Association of the Mining Industry in Canada (WAMIC) in 1971 where she has been a member for 31 years supporting all of its charitable activities. She also served on the executive of WAMIC for a number of years as well as being its president for two years. Mining has taken Jean all over Canada and her volunteer activities have supported health issues, children’s activities and support for the mining industry and its communities wherever she has lived.