Canadian Flag to Fly at Half Mast Today to Recognize the Passing of Former City Councillor Helen Hughes

Helen Hughes was known as a leader, a civil servant and a beloved community organizer. She was elected to Victoria’s city council in 1990 and served the public passionately in that role for 18 years until 2008.

As Councillor, Helen championed learning, health and youth issues, among a variety of others. As the liaison for downtown Victoria, she worked with the Medical Health Officer to organize the Capital Region Action Team on Sexually Exploited Youth. She launched fundraisers such as the Souper Bowls of Hope for the Victoria Youth Empowerment Society in support of its programs, including a summer drop-in centre and a Youth Hospitality Training Centre. Helen also initiated a massive spring cleaning of the whole downtown area called the 60 Minute Scrub Up.

Helen received the 2012 Ann MacLean Award for Outstanding Service by a Woman in Municipal Politics, a 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award from Leadership Victoria, the 2008 Generous Spirit Award from the Victoria Foundation, the 2012 Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the City of Victoria’s own Honorary Citizen Award in 2010, among other accolades.