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.
Padre Ralph has served as Directing Staff at the Canadian Force Chaplains School and Centre located within CFB Borden on several different occasions. He has also served as the Senior Chaplain at Blackdown Cadet Training Centre for eight summers supervising his staff as they cared for a Camp of 3,000 personnel including up to 2,500 young people.
Phil brings a wealth of experience that inform his current role from both his civilian and Military roles. He holds a Bachelor of Theology degree from Ontario Bible College and a Master of Divinity degree from Ontario Theological Seminary.
Beyond military and congregational ministry, Phil has been active in the wider community by serving on the Boards of several agencies dedicated to assisting those in need, including the North York Emergency Needs Network (Treasurer and Chairman), Foodshare Metro Toronto, the North York Harvest Food Bank (three terms as Chairman).
His work in the community has been well received. Largely due to his work with the Food Bank, he was awarded the Canada 125 Medal, given for “Significant Contributions to Canada.” In 2002 he was awarded the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal, primarily for his contributions to the Public School Community. He is also the recipient of the Canadian Forces Decoration.