Charlie Grahn joined Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) six years ago as a concerned citizen.
Now, the Burnaby resident is being recognized for his volunteer efforts.
Grahn, a college professor and retired navy veteran, is a new recipient of the King's Coronation Medal, named for King Charles III's coronation in May 2023. The hardware honours Canadians' outstanding achievements and contributions to their communities.
Grahn, according to a MADD release, cares passionately about preventing drunk driving, especially through educating youth, as he joined the organization when his daughters were pre-teens.
Two years ago, he created the "Top 5" Lower Mainland Police Detachments award which recognizes law enforcement's efforts in fighting impaired driving.
Grahn, in collaboration with ICBC, gathers statistics and awards the recognitions each year.
"We chose to honour individuals whose contributions have not been recognized before," MADD Canada said in its written announcement.
"We have not been able to honour everyone who deserves a Medal but this is a chance to recognize and thank 50 individuals (and their families) who have made significant contributions to MADD Canada, their communities, and to Canada."
MADD was founded in 1989 and now has more than 100 chapters across Canada.
Its efforts are focused on five key areas including youth services, victim/survivor services, public awareness and education, public policy and anti-impaired driving technology.
