Alan Doyle honoured with Canadian Red Cross Humanitarian award
Former Great Big Sea frontman recognized for charity work
Alan Doyle is no stranger to awards. Usually it's for his music.
At a gala dinner on Wednesday night the actor, author and musician was honoured for his charity work by the Canadian Red Cross of Newfoundland and Labrador.
"I find it really satisfying to be honest with you," he told CBC News.
"I've always found it that way. Then you get in a band for a living and you get a bit famous, more opportunities to give back to your community come your way. I've always been grateful to do it."
Doyle has helped raise millions of dollars for charities, like the Canadian Cancer Society.
Earlier this year, he organized a multi-venue, 30-act charity concert in downtown St. John's, with proceeds going to the Red Cross effort to help people affected by the Fort McMurray fires. That show raised more than $40,000.
He sits on multiple boards, committees and also volunteered his time to help The Rooms raise money needed for the newly installed "Where Once They Stood" exhibit.
His desire to help others is something he credits to his parents.
"I grew up in Petty Harbour and we didn't have a ton of stuff, but we had a house. My mom's family is from Marystown. I remember our house was always like the sick bay for anybody from Marystown who needed to be in St. John's for medical procedures or something like that."
But Doyle said giving back is something many in this province do.
"Try to count how many events Mark Critch gives his time for, or Mary or Shaun Majumder," he said.
"I think the Newfoundland and Labrador arts community — in particular I will brag about the Newfoundland and Labrador music community — are continuously giving their time and effort."
Doyle wasn't the only person honoured by the Canadian Red Cross.
Miranda Ramjattan received the Young Humanitarian Award.
"I feel very honoured and privileged," she said.
Ramjattan began raising money for charity when she was 12 and hasn't stopped. She's volunteered for many organizations and groups, like the St. James United Church.
"It's just about being able to help others," she told CBC.
"Just being able to benefit the lives of others, especially with my work at the Elaine Dobbin Centre for Autism. I love being able to going in there and seeing the kids and being able to help them improve their lives and social skills. It's very fulfilling."