The City of Grande Prairie and Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations (VolunteerGP) announced the 2023 Volunteer Award recipients at the annual volunteer breakfast today.
The awards take place on International Volunteer Day to celebrate all the community volunteers nominated while highlighting the 2023 recipients who contribute to a more inclusive and caring community through volunteerism.
George Repka Outstanding Achievement Award
Bethe Goldie received the George Repka Outstanding Achievement Award. Bethe has served the community for over 40 years where she has committed to extensive and diverse volunteer opportunities.
Bill Bowes Volunteer Organization of the Year
The Grande Prairie Friendship Centre is recognized as the 2023 Bill Bowes Volunteer Organization of the Year. Its notable achievements and contributions to the community, including fundraising, volunteering and recognition of community needs.
Volunteer of the Year Award - sponsored by Servus Credit Union
Leonard Auger is named this year’s Volunteer of the Year. Leonard is involved with various volunteer organizations, including as the President of the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre. His guidance in fostering a sustainable environment in the past twelve months, has established a foundation for ongoing support and programs benefiting Indigenous communities.
Corporate Volunteer of the Year Award - sponsored by Prairie Mall
MNP LLP. is recognized as the 2023 Corporate Volunteer of the Year. Over the past year, their commitment to employee-led volunteerism has profoundly benefited various community non-profits, demonstrating the powerful impact of corporate social responsibility.
Leaders of Tomorrow - sponsored by International Paper
The following individuals were named as Leaders of Tomorrow Award recipients:
- Leadership: Holly Ruigrok and Robert Nelson.
- Volunteerism: Polina Kovalinksa and Alyssa Brown.
- Advocacy: Rylee Martin and Jenna Peterson.
- Perseverance: Crystal Hepditch and Kenneth Livesey.
Outstanding Citizen Awards
Cindy Huber, Robert Sibbeston, Pat Cooke, Shelly Steen, Grande Prairie Senior’s Outreach and Kleskun Hill Museum Society Volunteers are recognized with Outstanding Citizen Awards.
The Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations would like to thank the following organizations for their award sponsorships; International Paper (Leaders of Tomorrow Awards), Servus Credit Union (Volunteer of the Year Award) and the Prairie Mall (Corporate Volunteer of the Year Award).
“Council is grateful to this year’s nominees and recipients of the 2023 Volunteer Awards for their incredible work towards creating a more connected, thriving community that serves all people,” said City of Grande Prairie Mayor, Jackie Clayton. “We also want to thank the community partners, including VolunteerGP, who came together to organize and create this year’s volunteer breakfast to celebrate these remarkable individuals.”
"Today's award winners exemplify the transformative power of volunteering,” said Volunteer GP Executive Director Carol-Anne Pasemko. “Their dedication to community building and selfless service highlights the profound impact that one individual's effort can have in shaping a better, more connected world."
About International Volunteer Day
International Volunteer Day is a global celebration of volunteers taking place on December 5 each year to shine a light on the impact of volunteer efforts everywhere.
International Volunteer Day is viewed as a unique chance for volunteers and organizations to celebrate their efforts, share their values and promote their work among their community and further.