Norm McLeod Awards

Craig Decoux, 2002 Norm McLeod Leadership Award Winner

Craig Decoux Dreams Big Dreams

Once shy and reserved, Craig Decoux, from Blairmore, Alberta, has had to learn to become the assertive and self-confident leader he is today. Craig did not allow his developmental disability to prevent him from achieving his dream of becoming a rehabilitation worker in his community—a historic feat considering that he is the first person in Alberta to work for the community agency that used to provide him with supports. Today, Craig is employed full-time at the Crowsnest Pass Mentally Handicap Society.

Craig was recognized for his outstanding leadership at the Alberta Association for Community Living (AACL) Family Conference in Edmonton on April 19th, where he was presented with the inaugural Norm McLeod Leadership Award. This award, which is sponsored by the Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) Provincial Board, recognizes an adult Albertan with a developmental disability who inspires other people and demonstrates leadership in their community. A five-member committee reviewed the seven provincial nominations for the award and selected Craig as the winner.

Craig faced many difficult moments on his journey to becoming a rehabilitation worker. Along the way, he encountered skeptics who believed that a person with a developmental disability could not provide supports to other people with developmental disabilities. Many people questioned Craig’s dream, even his ability, but he was determined to achieve his goal. Clarence Hastings, who works for the Crowsnest Mentally Handicap Society with Craig and nominated him for the Norm McLeod Leadership Award, says, “Craig has redefined what it means to work with someone who has a developmental disability. His success has forced agencies to identify internal barriers that prevent the employment and dreams of adults with developmental disabilities.”

Craig credits Leadership Today for providing him with the leadership training necessary to achieve his dream. Now, Craig teaches Leadership Today courses to his peers, giving them the tools they need to be active in their communities. He also credits his family and Clarence for providing him with support and encouragement. “They mean everything to me,” he said.

An active public speaker, he inspires people with his message of “Speak Up and Dream Big Dreams”. Linda Pollit, who also has a developmental disability, thanks Craig for inspiring her to pursue her dream. “Before I met Craig, I didn’t think that I could become a staff member at a rehabilitation home. But after I met him, he showed me that I could achieve my dreams, too,” she says. Through Craig’s inspiration and support, Linda recently completed her Basic Skills Training (BST) offered through the Alberta Association of Rehabilitation Centres (AARC) and is now working at a rehabilitation home in Medicine Hat. Linda adds, “I love being a rehabilitation worker and helping other people. Craig is a role model and my inspiration.”

“Craig Decoux is a deserving award winner, because he has opened a door of opportunities for persons with developmental disabilities across Alberta,” announced Norm McLeod. “Craig achieves big dreams, is active in his community, serves as a role model and mentor, and is an wonderful rehabilitation worker.”

The PDD Provincial Board created the Norm McLeod Leadership Award to celebrate the career and contributions of Norm McLeod. Throughout his 35-year career, Norm inspired countless people with his untiring commitment to community inclusion. He had a personal vision of people with developmental disabilities living as full participants in their communities.

The PDD Provincial Board mission is “to create an Alberta where adults with developmental disabilities are included in community life.”

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