Each year, volunteers in Langley Township who make an impact in the community are presented with awards to honour their efforts and recognize all they contribute.
They also receive a cash award from the municipality, which allows them to make an even bigger difference where they live.
In April, the Township will commemorate its outstanding volunteers through the annual Eric Flowerdew Volunteer Award and the John and Muriel Arnason Award. Presented along with the Pete Swensson Award for Langley’s top student, the awards celebrate an individual and a couple who are dedicated to making the community a better place for everyone.
“What people may not know is that our recipients also receive a $750 monetary award that allows our volunteer award winners to contribute to a recognized charity or society of their choice,†said Leeann Virtue, community recreation manager. “That money can go a long way and make a real difference for organizations that help others. There is a ripple effect.â€
The 2013 Eric Flowerdew Volunteer Award recipient, Karen Long, presented her money to the Aldergrove Festival Days Society.
This year’s John and Muriel Arnason Award winners, Cheryl MacIntosh and Glenn Howes, who are dedicated members of local environmental groups, contributed their cash to the Glen Valley Watershed Society. The organization will use the funding for signage to mark the two brooks,
Williamson and Barkley, which cross the newly created Blaauw Eco Forest in Glen Valley.
“The idea is to encourage the public to access the website blaauwecoforest.ca, which explains the Eco Forest, its history, and benefactors, as well as its varied plant and animal diversity,†MacIntosh and Howes said.
“There is a great benefit to nominating deserving volunteers for these awards,†said Virtue. “Not only does it give the community the opportunity to give these dedicated people the recognition they deserve, it propagates the spirit of giving. These volunteers truly have an impact on our quality of life, and the money that comes with these awards can help further the work of our community’s hard working charities.â€
To nominate someone, contact Special Events coordinator Lisa Egan at legan@tol.ca or 604-533-6148. The deadline for nominations is Friday, Feb. 6.
Grade 11 and 12 students who get great grades, participate in school activities and athletics, and contribute to their communities can be considered for nomination for the 2015 Pete Swensson Award through their school principals. These individuals receive a $750 scholarship to further their educational pursuits.