RTV# 47 Champion the Champions

Dr. Fraser Mustard 1927-2011

A Year of Raising the Village. Week #47:

Champion the Champions...and deliver the straight goods.

Dr. Fraser Mustard, renowned early years champion and scientist, passed away last week. This is a profound loss to the early years movement and perhaps a time to reflect on how we champion our champions. It is well known that Mustard was a pioneer in the understanding of how the early years impacted human development. We have had the pleasure to hear Dr. Mustard present over the years. He shot straight from the hip (or the podium if you will) about how we must all invest in the early years and create MORE for our children which in turn is MORE for our communities and our collective future. No excuses, no debate, no doubts...he delivered the straight goods. His celebrated work and influence will long be remembered as will the sentiments of a true champion. In the same week as his passing, National Children’s Day is also celebrated (November 20th). We thought, what better way to tip our village raising hat to Dr. Fraser Mustards work, then to pay tribute to him and the rights of children. Join us in championing the champion and take a moment to think about your promise to our future, our children. And then act on it.


To get the straight goods on Child’s well being and to look at ways to celebrate the children in your life and community, here are some go-to resources:
Child Rights in practice:
http://globalclassroom.unicef.ca/en/news/ncd.htm
http://www.unicef.ca/en/1word
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/ncd-jne/kit-eng.php
http://www.canadiancrc.com/Canadas_national_Child_Day.aspx


And remember, we do not have to wait for a champions passing or a National day to honour one another. Do it now.

Village Raising Question:What are the ways you champion your champions?