City Council announced the recipients of the 2025 Volunteer Awards at the March 2 Council meeting, celebrating outstanding contributions through the George Repka Outstanding Achievement Award and the Bill Bowes Volunteer Organization Award.

“The volunteer awards are an important tradition for the City to express our gratitude for the countless hours, leadership and service that volunteers contribute to making Grande Prairie a vibrant and supportive place to live,” said City of Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton. “We extend a huge congratulations to all the recipients, and thank them for the positive impact they are making across the community.”

George Repka Outstanding Achievement Award

Margaret Bowes was awarded the George Repka Outstanding Achievement Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to recreation, culture, or social services in the community. For more than 30 years, Margaret has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to cultural programming and youth development. As a longtime volunteer with Northwestern Polytechnic, she has played a key role in supporting and delivering arts programming, shows and events for children and youth in our community.

Bill Bowes Volunteer Organization Award

The Grande Prairie Firefighters Charitable Foundation received the Bill Bowes Volunteer Organization Award. Established in 2010, the City developed the Volunteer Organization of the Year Award recognizing volunteer organizations or foundations in Grande Prairie that have demonstrated outstanding contributions to the community through meritorious service, voluntary contributions and exemplary community development having a direct and positive effect on residents. 

Founded in the early 2000s, The Grande Prairie Firefighters Charitable Foundation is a non-profit volunteer run organization led by local firefighters. The Foundation raises and distributes funds to support residents facing financial or personal hardship, with all proceeds directed back into the community. Their initiatives include support for school lunch and snack programs, assistance to nominated families throughout the year and the annual Sparky’s Secret Wish Program, which provides holiday meals and gifts to approximately 50 families. Through these efforts, the foundation has made a meaningful and lasting difference for individuals and families in need across Grande Prairie.

The City extends its sincere thanks to all individuals and organizations who submitted nominations this year. The strength and diversity of applications reflect the remarkable dedication of volunteers across our community.