ADDICTIONS MANAGER NOMINATED FOR AWARD

Nancy McConnell of Maple Ridge has been nominated for a 2005 YWCA Women of
Distinction Award.

She is one of 27 nominees for five awards.

Recipients are woman who have distinguished themselves as someone who has
contributed in meaningful ways to her community and who has demonstrated
exemplary leadership traits.

McConnell is nominated in the business and professions category.

She is the manager of addiction services at the Salvation Army Harbour
Light Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Vancouver.

According to the YMCA, "A passion for helping those less fortunate led
McConnell to her career as a counsellor to women, men and youth suffering
from drug and alcohol addictions.

"Celebrating 21 years of sobriety herself, McConnell has become a strong
advocate for women's rights and has helped hundreds of women over the years.

"McConnell believes in the power of the individual to change and has
encouraged and mentored some clients to become counsellors themselves. She
has also worked effectively with men dealing with issues of anger and
abuse, helping them to change perceptions and stop the cycle of addictions
and abuse.

"Under McConnell's direction, the Salvation Army Harbour Light Alcohol and
Drug Rehabilitation Centre has more than doubled its capacity to provide
residential treatment.

"In 2000, McConnell was honoured by 250 fellow alumni at the Maple Ridge
Treatment Centre."

The 27th annual YWCA Women of Distinction Awards banquet is to be held May
19 at the Westin Bayshore Resort and Marina in Vancouver.

The YWCA of Vancouver, a registered charity, is a resource for women,
families and those seeking to improve the quality of their lives.

From support for children and families to employment services, housing to
health and wellness programs, leadership development to information and
referral, the YWCA offers essential programs in more than 40 locations
throughout Greater Vancouver.