TORONTO, Dec. 10, 2013 /CNW/ - CNIB has announced that veteran TV broadcaster and CNIB supporter Craig Oliver will take on the role of honourary board chair on the charity's national board of directors.
Oliver's face and name are recognizable to all Canadians as he serves as CTV's chief political correspondent and was the previous host of CTV's long-running "Question Period". What many people don't know is that Oliver is legally blind as a result of glaucoma and has received support from CNIB over the years, primarily through the CNIB Library and its collection of accessible books, magazines and newspapers.
"CNIB has played a big part in helping me continue my career as a journalist," says Oliver. "Having access to materials, such as newspapers, through the CNIB Library makes it easy to stay on top of what matters most in my career - the news. I'm really looking forward to giving back to an organization that has offered me so much."
In his role as honourary chair, Oliver will participate in CNIB events and contribute to communication initiatives both locally and nationally.
"Craig believes that independence, mobility and literacy are rights for all Canadians, including those who are blind and partially sighted. He will play a major role in helping CNIB share that message with audiences all across this country," says John M. Rafferty, president & CEO, CNIB. "We're honoured to have such a prominent figure support our mission of helping all Canadians see beyond vision loss."
In over 56 years as a journalist, Oliver's achievements are vast. After beginning his reporting career with CBC, Oliver went on to work with CTV as their longtime bureau chief in Washington and Ottawa, and as the founding producer of Canada AM's inaugural episodes. He has won two Gemini awards and received the President's Award from the Radio-Television News Directors Association. His best-selling memoir, "Oliver's Twist: The Life and Times of an Unapologetic Newshound" was released in 2011. In November 2012, he was invested as an Officer of the Order of Canada.
"It means so much to CNIB to have an honourary chair who lives and thrives with vision loss," says Jane Beaumont, chair, CNIB board of directors. "Having somebody who represents our client base and can relate to their challenges, needs and accomplishments make his role so much more impactful; not just for us but for the Canadians we serve."
About CNIB
CNIB is a registered charity, passionately providing community-based support, knowledge and a national voice to ensure Canadians who are blind or partially sighted have the confidence, skills and opportunities to fully participate in life. To learn more, visit cnib.ca or call the toll-free CNIB Helpline at 1-800-563-2642.
Image with caption: "Longtime political correspondent, Craig Oliver, will take on the role of honourary board chair on CNIB's national board of directors. (CNW Group/CNIB)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20131210_C9242_PHOTO_EN_34789.jpg
SOURCE: CNIB
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