2026 Pauline Spatz Leadership Award Recipient: Jim Landry

The 10th annual Pauline Spatz Leadership Award was presented to Jim Landry at the Sept. 19 Annual General Meeting of the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick. Jim accepted the award virtually, as he was in England at the time for his Forget Me Not Tour fundraiser.

Forget Me Not Tour

Since 2018, Jim Landry has taken his bike on his annual Forget Me Not Tour in memory of his mother who passed away three years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This solo bicycle ride is his way of raising awareness and funds for a cause that is close to his heart. Jim has pedalled across Canada and Europe, using his journey to help those living with dementia and their families.

“Over the years, we have had the privilege of following Jim on these tours, and what always strikes me is how intentional he is in everything he does and how deeply connected he is to community,” said Chandra MacBean, Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick. “His plans almost never unfold exactly as he imagines them, but somehow that is where the magic happens. Whether it is a chance encounter at a school, a dementia care centre or a local pub, Jim has a remarkable way of connecting with people along the way. Those unexpected connections have carried the impact of the Forget Me Not Tour much further than I think even Jim could have planned.”

Funds from Jim’s ninth annual Forget Me Not Tour support both the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick and the Alzheimer Society of Prince Edward Island.

To learn more or support Jim’s fundraising efforts, visit:https://www.canadahelps.org/en/pages/9th-annual-forget-me-not-tour/

Leadership in Action

Jim Landry is an exceptional community leader whose compassion, dedication, and selfless service have made a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals and families. For many years, he has devoted his time, energy, and heart to supporting others, particularly those affected by Alzheimer's disease. His unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and community engagement exemplifies the values of the Pauline Spatz Leadership Award.

Along with his Forget Me Not Tour, Jim has also worked extensively with schools throughout the Anglophone South School District, leading tree planting initiatives, eco-hikes, and educational programs that encourage young people to appreciate both Canada's natural environment and its rich history. His enthusiasm inspires students to become active, engaged citizens and environmental stewards.

Jim's commitment to community service extends even further. He has played a significant role in several important commemorative projects, including the Pennfield memorial in New Brunswick, the 100th anniversary commemoration of the Royal Canadian Air Force in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and the memorial at Camp Cole in Blackville. These initiatives reflect his deep respect for those who have served our country and his commitment to ensuring their stories continue to be remembered.

Jim has also been an emcee for the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's in Saint John, where he brings warmth, enthusiasm, and encouragement to participants each year. Whether cycling thousands of kilometres, speaking at community events, planting trees with students, or volunteering his time, Jim consistently leads through action, kindness, and genuine compassion.

What makes Jim truly exceptional is not simply the number of hours he volunteers or the funds he has raised, but the lives he has touched along the way. He inspires others to give back, builds meaningful connections within communities, and demonstrates that one person's dedication can create lasting and far-reaching change. He seeks no recognition for his efforts; instead, he is motivated by a sincere desire to help others and leave his community stronger than he found it.

 

Do you know someone like Jim who gives generously of their time, energy and resources to make their community a better place? Consider nominating them for the Pauline Spatz Leadership Award.