Inuvik - Helping his community has earned Shane Brewster national recognition for his efforts.

Sir Alexander Mackenzie school gym teacher Shane Brewster was given an award of merit during the summer. The award came from the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association. Brewster was nominated for his work to promote healthy living in town. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

Brewster was given the award of merit from the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association.

The annual award is given to those who contribute to the well being of their community and region.

Brewster was nominated by Theresa Ross, who has also been known in the region for her dedication.

The award follows a t1erritorial award that was given to Brewster earlier this year.

He was given the active living award by the Territorial parks and recreation association.

Town of Inuvik recreation programmer Kelly Noseworthy said that the national award was an offshoot of the territorial honour.

"Theresa contacted me for some information on nominating Shane for the national award of merit," said Noseworthy.

It was Noseworthy who put Brewster on the list for the territorial award earlier this year.

"He has done a lot for the community and it shows," said Noseworthy.

"He helped me a lot when I was new to town and introduced me into the system here."

She added that it was due to the support from former students and other members of the community that Brewster was nominated for the national award.

"I have letters here from many people who gave him their support," she said.

Brewster also helped Noseworthy with the success of the Inuvik fitness centre, located in the recreation complex.

"He helped me get things going and we started working from there," said Noseworthy.

"He spends a lot of time there and he wanted to help make it the best it could be."

Brewster said he feels honoured to be recognized for his work in the community.

"I try to encourage people to stay involved in the community and to stay active," said Brewster.

"I want to stay involved in the well being of my students and the people in the community."

Brewster said it's a good feeling to do good for others.

"I've spent time mentoring younger teachers and helping others along," said Brewster.

He sees this award as an honour for the whole community and for those who help him with his work.

"It's not an award for myself, it is an award for all the people I work with," said Brewster.

"This represents the hard work we're doing with the students in Inuvik."