Michael Piwerka, WWC Ambassador, Durham Region, Ontario

Michael Piwerka joined York Regional Police in 2004 after a career-ending injury halted his professional basketball journey. Throughout his policing career, he has held various roles in Frontline Patrol, the High-Risk Offender Unit, and Executive Services. He currently serves as a Staff Sergeant in the Real-Time Operation Centre, where he oversees daily operational deployments across the region and manages high priority incidents.

Michael assisted in launching the Military Veteran Wellness Program with the Toronto Police, later helping to establish it within York Regional Police. He is a dedicated supporter of veterans’ causes, having volunteered in events like the Walk for the Wounded and running other fundraisers for veteran wellness, prior to taking on his role as an ambassador for Wounded Warriors.

A long-standing advocate for mental health among first responders, Michael has worked extensively with officers managing PTSD and Operational Stress Injuries. Reflecting on the early lack of support he received in his career, he is committed to ensuring that others won’t face these battles alone, dedicating his efforts to building a strong network of support for those in need.