Since 1990, Jim Terrion has single-handedly raised close to $800,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation with a goal to reach one million dollars by 2024! Jim, who was born deaf, goes door-to-door, visiting communities throughout Northern British Columbia in an effort to keep Terry’s dream alive by raising funds to support cancer research.
Carolina Tatoosh is member of the Hupač̓asatḥ, Nuu-chah-nulth and Alberni Valley communities. For over 20 years Carolina has served the community in the role of youth/elder worker for the Hupač̓asatḥ First Nation and developed relationships with schools, youth, elders, families, RCMP, other nations and service providers. Using her sense of creativity, Carolina facilitates opportunities for youth and elders to share Hupač̓asatḥ language and culture.
Steven (Steve) Sorensen served 36 years with the Sooke Fire Department leading initiatives to improve emergency services in his region and beyond. Steve built strategic relationships and developed programs to address the lack of resources for those affected by fires and facilitate training opportunities for first responders. His vision of cooperation and resource sharing resulted in strengthened mutual aid agreements with neighbouring municipalities.
Ivan Sayers is the Honorary Curator of the BC Society for Museum of Original Costume and Curator Emeritus, Museum of Vancouver. Specializing in the study of women’s, men’s, and children’s fashions from 1700 to the present, Ivan has produced historical fashion shows and museum exhibitions all over western North America. A lecturer and mentor, his fashion shows have supported countless non-profits over the years.
As Mayor of the Village of Cache Creek for 28 consecutive years, John Ranta made his community more appealing, accessible, and safer for residents while ensuring taxes remained low and the Village became 100% debt free. He helped to create the Landfill Legacy Fund providing ongoing funds for major projects. Known for his leadership, John also served as President of the Union of BC Municipalities and Chair of the Thompson Nicola Regional District where he united a 26-member board. John’s calm strength and steady voice guided communities through BC’s largest wildfires and devastating floods.
Sarjeet Purewal works with the Surrey Anti-Gang Family Empowerment Program as a Family Counsellor with the Pacific Community Resources Society and Options SAFE Team. Throughout her committed career as a community leader, Sarjeet has helped South Asian parents build family relationships with their vulnerable youth who are involved in high-risk activities. She ensures families are connected to the services they need to increase family strengths and reduce isolation.
For over 35 years, Leigh Pearson has served as a volunteer member of Vernon Search and Rescue (SAR). Known for its natural beauty, Vernon is popular with outdoor enthusiasts and dependent upon the expertise of its SAR team. Leigh has personally managed more than 600 searches and helped to establish the Vernon SAR Helicopter Winch Program, the first one in Canada, which has improved patient outcomes and saved lives.
Valerie Murray’s leadership has enhanced the Victoria community, as Head Gardener for Friends of Government House Garden Society and through her volunteer efforts as one of the founding members of Breakfast2Music (B2M). Valerie’s vision for B2M developed breakfast and music programs in School District 61 and raised substantial funding to support them. At Government House, Valerie inspires her team to bring both unity and innovation to the grounds, providing an engaging visitor experience.
Myles Mattila is a youth advocate for mental health, concussion awareness and civic engagement. As founder of MindRight for Athletes Society, Myles developed a referral network program for players, coaches and referees to help reduce the stigma and isolation associated with mental health issues. He spearheads numerous efforts to transform young player care by focusing on early intervention and peer-to-peer outreach efforts.
An admired palliative care nurse, Jacqueline Macgregor has provided great comfort during life’s most difficult moments for many families. From her storied career as a nurse and team lead at Cascade Hospice to her ongoing involvement with Chilliwack Society for Community Living and weekend care of a girl with disabilities, Jacqueline is constantly providing supportive care to those who profoundly need it.
