Matthew Manuel Branch of Hope Memorial Award

Matthew Manuel was a CLAC member when his young life was tragically cut short in October 2013. His life was rich and full of the energy and ideals that we admire in young people. Matthew also struggled with substance use, and although Matthew was able to maintain a clean and sober lifestyle for a period of time, he died on a construction site in the Fort McMurray area after relapsing. His experience underscores the importance of remaining vigilant in recovery and recommitting to sobriety on a daily basis.

CLAC recognizes the courage Matthew modelled in his sobriety and it is our hope that by highlighting his story, other substance users may recognize and understand the deadly nature of problematic substance use and seek to make lasting changes to break the cycle.

The Matthew Manuel Branch of Hope Memorial Award was created to honour Matthew’s life and to honour his family’s commitment to helping others who face similar challenges.

Matthew's Story

Matthew Manuel Branch of Hope Memorial Award

The MMMA will be awarded each year on the anniversary of Matthew’s passing. The successful candidate will be notified by the ADCM program staff. The recipient's name and accomplishment will not be shared with anyone unless the recipient wants the information shared to help others.

Award Amount: $1,000

The award is available to CLAC members, their spouse, children, or grandchildren who have completed drug/alcohol treatment, are considered suitable to return to work, and are committed to recovery and career development through training and/or education.

Applications are due by September 30. The successful candidate will be chosen by random draw of all qualified nominees.