Award Category: Community Award

In the late 80’s, John Van Spronsen determined that the youth of Dawson Creek needed a recreational facility. He took it upon himself to make this a reality and now ‘the Ark Christian Youth Centre’ provides leisure opportunities to all youth regardless of financial situation, ethnicity or religion. The Centre has become a valuable amenity, fostering understanding and tolerance and providing a refuge for the community’s youth. John continues to fund the Arc personally. He is described as an “inspiration to his community” and one whose vision and commitment has made Dawson Creek a better place to live.

In the late 80’s, John Van Spronsen determined that the youth of Dawson Creek needed a recreational facility. He took it upon himself to make this a reality and now ‘the Ark Christian Youth Centre’ provides leisure opportunities to all youth regardless of financial situation, ethnicity or religion. The Centre has become a valuable amenity, fostering understanding and tolerance and providing a refuge for the community’s youth. John continues to fund the Arc personally. He is described as an “inspiration to his community” and one whose vision and commitment has made Dawson Creek a better place to live.

For forty years, Garry Watson has been an integral part of Whistler’s community. He is a man whose efforts have enhanced the experience of Whistler as a place to play, and a place to reside. Considered a founding father of Whistler, Garry Watson served three terms as a councilor, as well as on the Board of the Squamish – Lillooet Regional District, the Whistler Health Care Foundation, the Community Foundation of Whistler, the Board of Variance and the recent School Tax Initiative. Garry has been part of every Whistler Olympic bid committee since 1961. Garry continues to serve with energy and distinction for positive change in the resort community of Whistler.

Although still a senior in high school, Travis Wong has already proven to be an accomplished role model and leader. Travis has been active in his Burnaby South school community and at the district level. A volunteer since the age of 12, he has given his time to coach at the Burnaby Barracudas Swim Club, at camps with Burnaby Parks & Recreation and SFU, and at the Vancouver Aquarium and Science World. He has helped at a senior’s care home and most recently, Travis has volunteered extensively with the British Columbia Youth Parliament. Travis is an outstanding young British Columbian who makes a difference in so many ways.

Dot Andrews has served her community for over 50 years as an effective, impartial leader. She has been elected to chair municipal organizations such as the Campbell River School Board, Regional Board and General Hospital Board through challenging years of growth and development.

Kimberley Arthur-Leung’s efforts as Chair of the Delta Hospital Foundation led to its most successful years of fundraising, ensuring quality health care for her community. She served as Director of the Boys and Girls Club, Delta Youth Services and Crime Prevention Society, as well as serving on the Delta Police Board.

As Chair of the Military Family Resource Centre Board of Directors, Helen Bates drives the continual development of support programs and services offered to members of the military family community in Victoria.

Dr. Battersby has an exemplary record of civic leadership for more than three decades, playing a role in the development and implementation of strategies that have guided Revelstoke’s progress in becoming a sustainable, thriving community.

Lucille Bell is an exceptional role model for her community of Old Massett not only as a thriving small business owner but also through her work as a Heritage Resource Officer where she has led many of initiatives to increase awareness of her culture including spearheading the repatriation of Haida Gwaii remains.