United, Norm Inspires a Love of Learning
A medical student at the University of Manitoba, Norm McLean knows a thing or two about homework.
And while his workload at school keeps him busy, it doesn't keep him from inspiring children in the same West Broadway neighbourhood where he grew up and was himself inspired.
"I want to help kids believe in their own abilities and potential," he says.
Homework club has been a passion for Norm for more than half his life. The child of a single parent, growing up in a neighbourhood troubled by gangs, violence and drugs, he first became involved with the club at age 11.
"He showed up every Wednesday without fail and has never stopped coming," says West Broadway co-director and mentor Ken Opaleke.
Norm credits Ken and his early experiences at West Broadway for much of his own success in school and life.
"I remember in grade six, the first time I ever got a really good report card, Ken made the hugest deal of it, as if I just won the Nobel Prize," Norm says. "That was when accomplishing something really began to mean something to me."
At age 12, no longer eligible to participate in the program, Norm became a junior volunteer at West Broadway and a role model himself.
"It's hard to imagine not being here to see kids going through the same things I did," says Norm. "To give back, and hope the same outcomes happen for other kids; those things really give me a satisfaction I can't find anywhere else."
In both his words and actions, Norm is setting a powerful example and inspiring a love of learning in a whole new generation of Winnipeggers.
