Burlington City Tourism Ambassador Award for Jack van der Laan

Dutch Canadian 2011 recipient

Dutch Canadian community organizer Jack van der Laan was recognized recently at the Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards Gala by Tourism Burlington as the 2011 Tourism Ambassador Award Recipient. Tourism Burlington applauded the efforts of Jack van der Laan in establishing both a successful men’s clothing store and a continuing friendship and twinning between Burlington and the City of Apeldoorn in the Netherlands. Jack founded and leads the Canada Netherlands Friendship Association and its efforts to promote the international bond through tourist visits, cultural exchanges, and annual events. His constant dedication to fostering friendship and goodwill between the countries coupled with his passionate service to his city and community make Van der Laan a truly deserving recipient of this year’s award, noted Tourism Burlington.

Sponsored by Burlington Hotel Association, the Tourism Burlington Ambassador Award, recognizes an individual or group who has made an outstanding contribution to the promotion of Burlington as a tourism destination with a significant impact on visitation to the city.

Tourism Burlington notes that Van der Laan has been active over “a prolonged period of time in primarily a volunteer capacity, has demonstrated leadership, professionalism and integrity, established a strong legacy and shown dedication to customer service and regularly goes above and beyond to contribute to the success of the event, service or business for which they represent.”

Tourism Burlington is the destination management organization for Burlington and operates a Visitor Centre just minutes from the city’s beautiful waterfront. Further Burlington, Ontario information can be found at www.tourismburlington.com or by calling 905-634-5594.