Theresa Brewster

In early 2006, there had been a meeting at the African Nova Scotia Employment Committee, whereas, Theresa had been requested to be in attendance.  The topic during a big part of the meeting was the restoration of the U.N.I.A.  Theresa gave in. She realized she was not the only community member that did not want to lose such an important piece of history. Concerned about the deterioration of the association’s community hall, Theresa developed a board of directors, took action, meeting with the Cape Breton Economic Development authorities to share a plan to revitalize it.  Thanks to her determination, the hall was lovingly restored with money raised from government and other organizations.  It has also been transformed into a cultural museum, preserving the community’s history and heritage so it will serve as an inspiration to young people today.

 In her role as chair of the Glace Bay Universal Negro Improvement Association, Theresa Brewster has proven that one person can make a difference in our communities.  Since the opening of the U.N.I.A. in 2006, Theresa has received several awards for her extreme effort in the restoration and creation of the Cultural Museum such as; Nova Scotia’s Celebrating Communities Award for Outstanding Volunteer Achievement; many Certificates of Appreciation, including one from Cape Breton Regional Municipality’s Recreation Department in recognition to her outstanding volunteer service.