Eric Walters is a local children’s author who encourages readers to be more involved in literature.
Walters utilizes his past experiences to help capture the reality of emotions, conversations, conflicts and everyday experiences within his work.
“I was quite surprised to hear about this. It’s nice to have some acknowledgement,” Walters said when informed of his Community Builders Award win. “Guelph is a lovely community. It’s a city full of culture and so many talented writers, so I’m honoured to know that I was considered.”
In 2022, he published Don’t Stand So Close to Me to help kids navigate their way through the COVID-19 pandemic in a positive way.
The proceeds from each book went to Hope House to provide personal protective equipment to people experiencing homelessness.
In his spare time, Walters delivers presentations to classes - keeping the audience captivated with his enthusiasm and creativity.
He takes those opportunities to create a positive space covering topics of education, social justice and his humanitarian efforts.
He not only continues to find ways to support children locally but internationally as well.
He founded Creation of Hope, an organization providing care, services and supplies to orphans in the Mbooni district of Kenya.
Walters has been recognized for his work as the recipient of many Children’s Choice Awards and international awards such as The Christopher in 2015 and the Sakura Medal in Japan, to name a few.
“I hope to continue to write and present to schools. I've got some books that are being considered for movies right now, too. I would be part of the writers' room for that, so I’m excited to do something different,” Walters shared about the future.
The Arts award goes to an individual or group that has helped make the artistic community stronger. They have championed an individual, an event, an idea, an ethic, or philosophy.
Congratulations, Eric!
This award is proudly sponsored by Palmer Audio.
