Union leaders, community advocates, and partners gathered last week for the annual Labour Community Awards to celebrate the people making a difference for Winnipeg workers.
Each year, United Way Winnipeg and the Winnipeg District Labour Council present the prestigious Art Coulter Labour Community Service Award to a dedicated labour activist in our community. This year’s recipient, Melissa Dvorak, is an admired leader who is committed to community partnerships, particularly with United Way Winnipeg.
Melissa Dvorak: A Tireless Leader & Advocate
“I’ve been involved with United Way for most of my career,” said Melissa. “Everything that we do there and the partnership that United Way has with us is wonderful—I just find it so rewarding.”
Melissa has played a key role in advancing workplace campaigns, encouraging union participation, and championing important projects through United Way Winnipeg—such as the Period Power Collection Drive and Koats for Kids—that directly support our neighbours.
“[Melissa] is always there to help—she’s a force on many campaigns and canvases, supporting members on the picket lines in extreme heat or blistering cold,” said Madelaine Dwyer, United Way Winnipeg Labour Director (on leave). “She brings the labour movement into every conversation and has strengthened the connection between United Way Winnipeg and Labour.”
Beyond campaigns, Melissa sits on the United Way Winnipeg Board of Trustees and chairs its Labour Executive Committee. She has also been president of the Winnipeg Labour Council since 2019.
“Melissa Dvorak embodies everything the Art Culture Award stands for,” said Madelaine. “[She’s] a tireless advocate and leader.”
Melissa’s work is part of a long history of labour leaders building stronger communities alongside partners like United Way Winnipeg.
United Way Winnipeg & Labour: A Storied History
The connection between labour and United Way is grounded in the idea that solidarity extends beyond the workplace to build stronger, healthier communities. Labour’s role in fundraising, volunteering, and advocacy ensures that critical services are supported so no one gets left behind. The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) and United Way Centraide Canada have a strong, long-standing partnership based on a common goal of healthier communities.
“The CLC and the United Way share such a long history, and this labour movement is so proud to be one of the United Way founding partners,” said Bea Bruske, CLC President. “Together, we share a vision of an inclusive, diverse and resilient community where everyone has the support that they need to build a better life for themselves and for their families.”
Melissa advances this vision by inspiring participation and advocating for a culture of inclusion and mentorship. Her work with organizations like Rossbrook House and the Community Unemployed Help Centre—two United Way Winnipeg donor-supported agency partners—highlights her dedication to empowering people who are navigating complex systems.
“The partnership between United Way Winnipeg and labour is so important because it just brings people together in solidarity,” said Melissa. “The labour movement is always there to help those who are falling behind or who are struggling. It’s brothers, sisters, friends—someone who always has your back. You’re never alone.”
Melissa Dvorak is an advocate, community builder, and leader who understands that progress comes from working together, truly representing the spirit of the Art Coulter Labour Community Service Award. United Way Winnipeg is proud to honour her achievements and looks forward to her future impact in labour advocacy.
2026 Award Recipients
Bruce MacKay Labour Activist Award
• Michael Shaw – UMFA
• Roberta Hoogervorst– UFCW 832
Bruce MacKay Community Activist Award
• Amanda Ducharme UFCW 832
• Robert Labossiere – UFFW
United Way Labour Volunteer Service Award
• Andy Spence – USW 9074
United Way Labour Community Excellence Award
• Manitoba Nurses Union
Art Coulter Labour Community Service Award
• Melissa Dvorak – MGEU
