Ivan Dawns, an IUPAT Business Representative and community Ambassador, is on a mission to organize initiatives that contribute to the betterment of people’s lives. Dawns has been honoured with a High Achievement Award by the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) for his service in mentoring youth in overcoming economic barriers as well as his hands-on support for the Helping Hands school-building program in his homeland of Jamaica. Dawns has been praised by colleagues and community leaders not only for his drive and passion but also for his character as a caring father who wants to make a difference.
Serving the Community
Most recently, Dawns assembled a team at the Back Door Mission homeless shelter and served Christmas dinner. They served 180 meals.
1891 member Kristi Slade, Ivan’s son Terel, Ivan’s daughter Breann, Ivan’s nephew Ricardo, Ivan, and Ajax MPP Patrice Barnes
Dawns continues to mobilize volunteer teams to serve a community that he deeply invests himself in, and his passion projects extend from combating homelessness and hunger to healthcare awareness. An upcoming initiative is the ‘Walk the Path Walkathon,’ an event which is part of the Walnut Foundation and empowers men to be responsible for their own well-being through increased social interaction. Dawns was named the honorary campaign chairperson for the event which is a 5KM Walk for prostate cancer and is set to take place on Saturday June 3, 2023, in Brampton.
Dawns worked 13 years as a drywall finisher before working for the union itself. The Business Representative who is now the political director for IUPAT, also takes extreme pride in his trade profession and enjoys advocating to resolve worker grievances should they arise.
IUPAT – Putting People First
IUPAT advocates for its membership and for worker rights including health and safety and competitive wages. Being part of the IUPAT community means benefitting from collective agreements and from an inclusive organization that offers members healthcare support and training opportunities. Ivan Dawns is the embodiment of the union’s core values, and we are proud of him.
