Award Category: Community Award

Debra Arnott is a community leader and role model who promotes business and community economic development in the Central Interior as general manager of Community Futures Sun Country. Debra also supports a wide range of community initiatives as a volunteer including the Regional Literacy group, Thompson Rivers University, Regional Welcoming Communities, and the Historic Hat Creek Ranch to name a few.

Peter Ash is a philanthropist and entrepreneur who reaches out to the less fortunate in the community and encourages his companies and staff to do the same. His contributions include supporting a shelter for homeless women in Vancouver’s downtown eastside, the first homeless shelter in Langley and the new Canuck Place in Abbotsford. Of particular note is his dedication to Under the Same Sun, an international NGO he founded in Tanzania to support persons with albinism.

A world-renowned artist, Professor Chow has contributed significantly to the artistic and cultural mosaic of British Columbia. He is the founding president of the Chinese Canadian Artists Federation in Vancouver, and a dedicated teacher and mentor who has taught at UBC and advised many in the community in the techniques of classical painting. Many social and charitable causes have benefited from his generous donations of his artwork.

Over the past 17 years, Rose Colledge has committed her time and energy to ensuring that Tumbler Ridge is a vibrant and successful community. Rose is currently the women’s outreach co-ordinator and has served as an elected councillor, president of the Tumbler Ridge Museum and a volunteer and board member of the Tumbler Ridge Community Arts Council.

Tim Cormode founded the Power to Be Adventure Therapy Society in 1998, an organization that provides outdoor education programs that enrich the health and quality of life for youth, families and adults facing significant life challenges. As executive director, Tim’s skills as a visionary, leader, motivator and fundraiser have created the opportunity for over 5,000 British Columbians with disabilities to experience the therapeutic values of nature.

Peter Couldwell has served his community of Quesnel as a councillor for more than 20 years. He has also personally helped to raise close to $3million through his skills as a volunteer auctioneer for scores of events and organizations, including local charities, the Quesnel Community Foundation and the Hospice Palliative Care Association.

A lifelong resident of the Bulkley Valley, Jim Davidson has worked to enhance the economic viability and sustainability of the town of Smithers and the regional district. Former mayor and councillor, he initiated significant infrastructure projects, improved the region’s dairy industry, created positive working relationships with First Nations communities in the area, and was instrumental in establishing the Happy Valley School for the education of special needs children.

Alia is a first year student at UBC Medical School who is passionate about helping others in the community. From more than 500 hours of service at Canuck Place to tutoring and mentoring high school students to developing a wellness conference for inner city youth, Alia continually finds ways to empower others and to improve communities. Also, Alia has led UBC’s Meal Exchange program that sources contributions to local foodbanks.

Ron Emerson has volunteered hundreds of hours to the Arthritis Society, BC & Yukon Division. Past chair of the board, Ron has contributed his leadership abilities, his fundraising skills and his business acumen for the benefit of the 600,000 British Columbians living with arthritis. Ron is an exemplary role model, serving the society with integrity and commitment.

John deCourcey Evans is a successful businessman, community leader and volunteer who has a passion for the arts, education and for improving the social welfare of British Columbians. He has served on the boards of the University of Victoria, the Vancouver Art Gallery, and the Canadian Craft Museum. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Dr. Peter Centre and serves as the chair of its foundation, ensuring its continued service to the community.