At a ceremony in Ottawa this week, Brandon born-and-raised Israel Idonije was the recipient of a Meritorious Service Medal from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada.
The honour is presented to those who have performed an exceptional deed or activity that brings honour to Canada, in Idonije's case the charitable work done via the iF Charities non-profit organization he has founded. In a media advisory posted on the website for the Governor General that includes background information on the honours being presented, Idonije’s citation reads as follows:
“Wanting to give back to the cities he has called home, retired football player Israel Idonije founded the Israel Idonije Foundation, now iF Charities, to help disadvantaged youth in Chicago, Winnipeg and West Africa. Through his personal commitment and philanthropic activities, he has helped iF Charities support over 11 000 individuals to develop important social and emotional life skills.”
The Vincent Massey alum was joined by three current Manitobans amongst 40 individuals receiving honours at the ceremony, including two Winnipeg Police officers and musician Robb Nash.
Idonije was subject of a separate post in this section earlier this year when it was learned he would have a part in an upcoming episode of the Fox TV series Proven Innocent. At the time it was said to be episode 8, which according the the episode guide for the series would come next Friday, April 5.
Photo credit: 10photos