Award Category: Community Award

Katherine Dodds is known for her highly effective transmedia campaigns and efforts in raising awareness around social justice, Indigenous rights, sexual health education, LGBTQI2S solidarity and international development, to name a few of her engagement areas. As founder and creative director of Hello Cool World, Katherine has inspired a generation of writers, artists, activists, filmmakers and media strategists across the province. She is a frequent public speaker and leader in her community who continuously uses her own resources to support other initiatives and campaigns.

For over seven years, Polla Eid has volunteered four days a week, six to seven hours daily, at the Kelowna General Hospital. As someone who believes deeply in the ideals of quiet public service and in the transformative power of volunteering, Polla embodies what passion and commitment can achieve. Hospital staff and visitors know Polla to be an energetic and enthusiastic volunteer who greets and assists anyone needing help around the hospital. She leads by example and is an inspiration to her community and fellow volunteers.

Owner of the Common Loaf Bake Shop, Maureen Fraser is a dedicated community leader. A two-term councillor, Maureen has served on the board of the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce and Tofino Arts Council. She played an important role as a provincial member of the Clayoquot Sound Central Region board for seven years and was instrumental in securing a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designation for Clayoquot Sound. A true trailblazer in reconciliation, Maureen’s proven ability to bridge divides between diverse interests is legendary in the region.

Jessie Ann Gamble leads the crusade to preserve her community’s history. A founding member of the Armstrong-Spallumcheen Museum & Arts Society, she has served as its president and become the “go-to-person” for local historical information. Armstrong- Spallumcheen’s 2003 Citizen of the Year, Jessie Ann is a life member of the Okanagan Historical Society ensuring that future generations do not lose the treasures and stories of the past. Her efforts to educate all community members are an extension of her teaching career and reflect her passion for documenting history.

Ming Gin has devoted over 30 years to BC Children’s Hospital Foundation making him one of its longest-serving volunteers. He has given more than 20,000 hours of his time and played an integral role in establishing several signature events including the RBC Race for Kids (formally, Child Run) and the Miracle Weekend telethon. A generous donor, Ming has been a Circle of Care member for 18 years and a member of the Legacy Circle. His ardent leadership, unwavering commitment to volunteering and philanthropy all serve as an inspiration to others.

As owner of the iconic Greens and Beans Deli in Sapperton, New Westminster, Leona Green is well-known for her charitable contributions. She has raised funds for various causes by availing her business for fundraisers, preparing food for the local shelters, collecting customer donations in lieu of tips to support individuals or organizations in need, to name a few. A true role model committed to making a difference in her community, Leona leads with compassion addressing every issue that comes to her attention with professionalism and grace.

Linda Helm is committed to the development of Tumbler Ridge as an outdoor recreation and healthy lifestyle destination. Her volunteer commitments to her community include organizing the Ridge Ramble Biathlon, Ridge Ramble Cross Country Run, helping to organize Emperor’s Challenge, and helping build a network of over 50 trails for the entire community and visitors to enjoy. Enriching the lives of children is reflected in Linda’s commitment to coaching young athletes and supporting numerous school programs.

Janet Johnston is a dedicated resident of the community of Stewart who is well known for her activism and volunteer contributions. A compassionate voice for LGBTQ2 rights and advocacy, Janet has also provided services as a foster parent, fundraised for the Canadian Cancer Society, acted as Unit Chief for the BC Ambulance service and supported the Parent’s Resource Institute for Drug Education. In addition to her work as Librarian for the Bear Valley School, Janet chairs the Stewart Historical Society and volunteers with the Stewart Food Bank, local Cubs Chapter, figure skating and minor hockey clubs.

For over 40 years, Kenneth (Ken) Kjenstad has been a champion for the community of Clearwater. Owner of the only grocery store in town for 25 years, Ken was the chair of the Regional Hospital Board, served as city councillor, and spearheaded numerous community events. A role model for many in local minor sports associations, Ken has used his leadership skills to implement policies and programs that ensure sport opportunities are made available to all youth in the Clearwater community.