Award Category: Community Award

Leonard Schein is an outstanding supporter of the Canadian Cancer Society both provincially and nationally. He has recently completed a term as Board Chair of the BC & Yukon division where he played a pivotal role in securing significant endowments and donations. He also strengthened the Society partnerships with other cancer organizations. Leonard is also recognized today for his important contributions to the field of arts and culture, having opened his first neighbourhood cinema, The Ridge, in Vancouver in 1977. He launched the Vancouver International Film Festival in 1982 and continues his connection to film today as President of Festival Cinemas. Leonard has contributed to the cultural fabric and quality of life in Vancouver for over thirty years.

Wes Sissons is a kind and gentle volunteer, always putting the needs of others before his own. He was nominated by the Principal and Staff of Riverview Elementary School, a high risk inner city school in Quesnel. He has been involved in immeasurable ways supporting the staff and helping the school community flourish. From leading fundraising efforts to managing the lunch program, Wes demonstrates a caring for all children. Wes has served as President of the Riverview Parent Advisory Committee and on the District Council. He is an active volunteer for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #94. Today’s award acknowledges Wes, his volunteerism and his understanding of the importance of children reaching their potential.

Canuck Place Children’s Hospice in Vancouver is a pediatric palliative care facility serving BC children from infancy to age nineteen. We are honoured today to recognize Brad Skeats for his compassionate role in serving children and their families at Canuck Place. He has volunteered over 2500 hours since 2000. Brad is especially gifted with bereavement counseling where he has made a difference in so many lives at difficult times. Brad is known for his devotion and dedication. He volunteers to do any task that needs to be done, has trained countless volunteers and carefully considers each family’s situation and tenderly cares for those in need. Brad exemplifies the meaning and strength of an outstanding volunteer.

According to world renowned naturalist Robert Bateman…’British Columbia needs a few thousand more Daphne Soleckis’. Daphne is the extraordinary individual who developed an idea into a very successful and hugely important organization called the Young Naturalists’ Clubs of British Columbia. Over 10,000 children have been introduced to the importance of nature, the value of their environment and the need to preserve it through the network of fifty school and family clubs spanning the Province. Daphne has had a profound impact not only on the lives of BC children but also on the naturalist movement in BC and Canada where she has served as a diligent board member and valuable mentor.

Donna Spencer is a true pioneer of the performing arts in Vancouver. She is co-founder and artistic director of the Firehall Arts Centre as well as founder and artistic director of the Dancing on the Edge Festival. She has been a mentor to young artists, fostered the careers of established artists and is known for her unique and dynamic approach to programming and production. In the last 29 years, Donna has presented theatre and dance that reflect the cultural pluralism of our country. Always seeking ways to enrich the neighbourhood of the Arts Centre in the downtown east side, Donna has introduced a unique training program for youth at-risk. Her contributions to the theatre, dance and the community is and will be inspiring for generations to come.

Steve Wilson served the youth of our province with distinction through his leadership of Junior Achievement of British Columbia and its mission to deliver business education and financial literacy to our youth. He is focused on providing students with the tools they need to succeed in our new and challenging economy. Under his watch, Junior Achievement initiated the Dollars and Sense Program that will be delivered this year to 3,000 BC students. He developed a strong volunteer program at Junior Achievement and increased its community presence through the new Business Laureates of BC Hall of Fame. Steve’s volunteer and philanthropic efforts speak to his passion for strengthening the business leaders of our future.

Vision, tenacity and drive describe Wolfgang Zimmermann and his contributions to the community. For over three decades he has advocated for safer workplaces and the rehabilitation of injured workers. He is nationally and internationally recognized for his expertise. Wolfgang is being honoured today for his leadership in creating education and awareness of workplace safety, health promotion, return to work strategies and disability management. 2011 saw the culmination of his work with the official opening of Pacific Coast University for Workplace Health Sciences in Port Alberni. It’s the first such degree granting institution in the world and positioned Port Alberni on the international map. Wolfgang Zimmermann inspires us all with his determined contributions…in his field and to his community.

Known as “The Queen of Queensborough” Edna Anderson championed her New Westminster neighbourhood as its unofficial historian and valued community contributor. A founding member of the Queensborough Special Programs Committee, Edna was also instrumental in the establishment of the Community Centre and the Historical Mural Millenium Project. Edna has left a strong and inspirational legacy for her community.

Featured in photo: Mary dePaoli, on behalf of the late Edna Anderson