Award Category: Community Award

In 1990, at age 29, Jim Terrion walked across Canada to raise money and awareness for the deaf and hearing-impaired, specifically to help stage the 12th World Winter Games for the Deaf to be held in Calgary. Now, 16 years later, Jim is still raising money and awareness. Each year, he personally visits every business and residence in Prince George to collect pledges for the Terry Fox Run. His enthusiasm and energy are contagious and he has raised almost $400,000 in support of cancer research. Jim is a loved and respected member of the Prince Rupert community and has come to be expected knocking on doors with a “big smile and pledge sheet in hand”.

Mr. Varshney is a businessman and philanthropist who has contributed to the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation, to the University of British Columbia and to the India Club. He is known as someone who understands how communities can be helped at both the strategic and the grassroots level. As a Director of St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation, Hari’s fundraising efforts have benefited maternity and children’s programs. The Varshney’s have funded an endowment at UBC to support the Centre for Indian and South Asian Research, and more recently a lecture series and scholarships at the Sauder School of Business. He is a volunteer leader who not only supports a cause, but also exhibits the passion and energy that stimulate others to give.

Grace has demonstrated outstanding service in both the course of her work and as a volunteer, contributing in significant ways to international business and multiculturalism in her community. As the Assistant Dean and Director of International Programs at The Sauder School of Business at UBC, Grace develops academic and professional programs with the international community that are committed to fostering an understanding and appreciation of different cultures and business norms. Grace extends her commitment to multiculturalism through involvement in important community organizations such as SUCCESS and as a member of the Premier’s Asia Pacific Trade Council for BC.

Edmond Wright is an inspiring community leader in New Aiyansh, formerly the Gitlakdamix Band. First as Band manager, then Executive Director, Edmond oversaw all aspects of the band’s development, delivery of services and the construction of the new village. He worked with the Nisga’a Nation’s Land Claims negotiation process and was instrumental in bringing the negotiation of the Nisga’a Nation Final Agreement to a conclusion in 2000. Edmond is currently serving his second term as Secretary/Treasurer of Nisga’a Lisims Government. His leadership and sound administrative skills have provided overwhelming benefits to his community.

Arnold Amonson is known as a selfless volunteer who will devote whatever time is necessary to strengthening the community of Houston. Over the past 24 years, Arnold has volunteered with a wide range of clubs and associations including the Houston and District Chamber of Commerce, Houston Seniors Association, Houston Curling Club, and the BC Seniors Games. What sets Arnold apart is that he not only sits as a member, chair or President of many organizations but that for each organization Arnold is actively involved. Arnold Amonson makes a difference in the District of Houston.

Kiran Aujlay is an example of determination and spirit. As a successful athlete, Kiran has turned her adversity into a passion, helping bring exposure to the sport of wheelchair racing. The Vancouver Optimist Club has noted that ‘it is her enthusiastic and positive approach to volunteerism that is her strength and that helps helps many youth with physical and mental challenges enjoy their life to the fullest’. Through her work leading educational seminars and as a peer mentor at G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Kiran provides encouragement and hope to youth with special disabilities.

Donna Barnett is a tremendous advocate for her community of 100 Mile House and the South Cariboo region. Mayor since 1996, Donna has overseen many initiatives which have benefited her area. In addition, she has given thousands of volunteer hours to community organizations and charities including South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce, South Cariboo Health Council and other civic, educational and recreational groups. Mayor Donna Barnett is tireless in her efforts to better the lives of the people of the South Cariboo.

Gordon Bell’s imagination and determination has resulted in the building of the Three Valley Gap Heritage Ghost Town located between Revelstoke and Sicamous. Gordon and his wife Ethel have devoted 45 years to establishing this major heritage attraction which provides employment and economic benefit to their community. Whether it’s saving a turn-of-the-century church from Field or the Craigallachie schoolhouse or collecting and restoring railroad artifacts, Gordon has built a legacy to showcase and preserve BC’s history. Further, Gordon has distinguished himself as one of BC’s most effective advocates for the importance of tourism in the province.