Earlier this winter, 15 well-deserving Cape Bretoners received the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal at a special ceremony held at Riverview High School. Gordie Farmer, a familiar face to many and an integral member of CBU’s Campus Security team, has received the prestigious award for his outstanding volunteer service. His charity, Bottles4Kids, collects bottles to raise money in support of mental health programming and awareness for youth in Cape Breton.
The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal recognizes residents who have made a significant contribution to their community, symbolizing dedication and service. It was designed to mark the 70th anniversary of her majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne in 1952 and is a tangible way for the province to honour the Queen’s service while also honouring significant contributions and achievements made by residents.
Nova Scotia’s Lt.-Gov. Arthur J. LeBlanc announced the establishment of the Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee Medal in Nova Scotia in March 2022. “The Queen has exemplified the true meaning of public service,” says Lt.-Gov. LeBlanc. “The Platinum Jubilee Medal Program is a welcome opportunity to celebrate outstanding Nova Scotians who, like Her Majesty, have dedicated themselves to service, community and country, particularly during the pandemic.”
Gordie was quick to thank his family for the important role their support has in his achievements. With the help of his family and supporters, Gordie has raised more than $50,000 in support of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation to help children and youth initiatives. “It’s not work for me, it’s my passion. I do this to show my kids that you can go through something hard and still come out on top,” says Gordie. “I want our hospital to be the best it can be so our kids don’t have to travel to other locations to receive care.”
On behalf of Cape Breton University, we are so proud of Gordie’s accomplishments, the continued work he does for the community and the contagious positive attitude he shares each and every day.
To learn more about Bottles4Kids, check out Gordie’s video here. To support Bottles4Kids, contact Gordie Farmer on Facebook, Instagram (@MrCapeBreton) or text 902-595-0161. Any time you see the Bottles4Kids truck in your community, remember, there is always room for another bag of bottles.