Les Talvio
Executive Director and co-founder of Cyrus Centre Ministries
Growing up in East Vancouver, which included many years as a street kid, Les has been through the school of hard knocks and graduated with a passion to help those in need. This has led Les to work with vulnerable youth and homeless individuals for over 30 years, providing direct services, advocacy, staff training, program development & community awareness.
Les has received several awards and distinctions including the BC Schools of Character Award for Excellence in Service, The Provincial Governments Community Safety & Crime Prevention Award and the “Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal” for service to his community and country.
In addition to his work at Cyrus Centre, Les has served for 16 years as either the co-director or director of the Extreme Weather Program in the city of Abbotsford, a program that he co-founded and continues to participate as a committee member. Additionally, he wrote the extreme weather plan for the City of Chilliwack. Les currently serves as the Vice-President of Cedar Outreach Society in Abbotsford.
Les has been married for 39 years to his loving wife Kristin; they have three children and six grandchildren and now make Chilliwack their home. When not working Les and his wife enjoy spending time with their grandchildren, camping, and car shows. Previously Les was an award- winning Pitmaster in the Professional BBQ circuit where he competed.