The Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations and the City of Grande Prairie marked International Volunteer Day by the United Nations Monday with a breakfast at the Golden Age Centre. This is the first time in three years that this event has been held to celebrate and pay appreciation to those who give their time in the community.
VolunteerGP also handed out several awards during the event. Eight awards were handed out to the Leaders of Tomorrow.
Molly Bates, Carter Walisser, and Myra Clark received an award in the Leadership category. Mia Gilije, and Kaylee Fehr received an award in the Advocacy category. Tahlia Nelson, Jordan Leigh Brown, and Noah Mok received awards in the Volunteerism Category. All eight youths were given a trophy, certificate, and $200 dollars that is split between the winner and the local charity of the winner’s choice.
The breakfast also recognized Volunteer of the Year Devin Bateman, while Stonebuilt Home Ltd. was recognized as the Corporate Volunteer of the Year.
Six Outstanding Citizen awards were also handed out at the breakfast. The recipients were Cindy Bliston, Dylan Bressey, Renee Corrigal, Jared Gossen, Emilia Hovorka, and Bear Creek Funeral Home & Cremation Sanctuary.