Commissioner Angélique Bernard has become a Patron for Special Olympics Yukon. This became official on Tuesday at Taylor House during a small ceremony where Bernard presented a certificate of patronage to Special Olympics Yukon athletes Darby McIntyre and Alanna Dene.

Special Olympics Yukon did not seek out the commissioner to be a patron; instead, it was Bernard who reached out to them.

"Being a patron, I give my name to an organization that fits with my pillars," said Bernard.

Bernard's four pillars are family, education, creativity and civic pride.

"I was looking at organizations in the community that fit those pillars and that I also have a personal connection with," said Bernard. "I've been an athletics coach and volunteer since the mid-’90s.

"I really believe in anything that has to do with sports and getting kids involved. I contacted Serge Michaud, the executive director, and said the commissioner would like to help promote the organization as a patron.

"The first reaction was, 'we've never got a call from the commissioner's office,' and their second reaction was, 'of course.'"

When the idea was presented to the Special Olympics Yukon board of directors, territorial programs committee chair Grant MacDonald said they jumped at the opportunity.

"I thought it was a wonderful idea," said MacDonald. "I've noted that the commissioner has been so supportive of Special Olympics Yukon at previous events and this was a natural fit.

"She was linked to sport, linked to youth. I just think it was a very good partnership for sure."

Bernard's passion for sports is evident in her coat of arms, which features a soccer ball.

"I've played sports since I was young," said Bernard. "I think sports brings the best out of people, just working together as a team.

"I also practiced with the Special Olympics soccer teams about 10 years ago and they were really good."

The patronage doesn't involve any finances, but Bernard will be prevalent at all Special Olympics activities – like the upcoming Soccer Invitational or the Unified Bocce Tournament that happened last Friday.

"It's me going to events and giving my name as commissioner as Yukon to the organization of Special Olympics Yukon," said Bernard. "I want to use my role as commissioner to shine more light on Special Olympics Yukon."

By being present at Special Olympics Yukon events, Bernard said she hopes she is a recognizable face to Yukoners, and they can come and ask what is going on.

"That's how I see my role too, to be a representative of Yukoners," said Bernard.

Michaud, along with McIntyre and Dene, presented the commissioner with a Special Olympics Yukon jacket. MacDonald said having Bernard's patronage will help the organization continue to grow.

"Very much so," said MacDonald. "As you can see, the chief executive officer gifted her a jacket with Special Olympics Yukon on it. I know she will wear it proudly around and help promote the Special Olympic movement here in the Yukon."