It’s a widely-held view in St. Albert that the city’s residents are the very model of volunteerism in the province but that impression hasn’t made its way to the committee that accepts nominations for the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards.
Up until Gareth Jones’ trip to the winners’ podium last year, no one from this city had ever accepted any of the six annual awards. In fact, no St. Albertan had ever even been nominated since the awards began in 2000.
It’s not that St. Albertans have been shy about nominating people. Rather, they’ve been inclined to nominate people living elsewhere.
“There has always been good support from St. Albert for the stars program,” said Alberta Culture spokesperson Barb Toker.
She hopes that Jones’ win last year will lead to a greater amount of future recognition here. Toker added that the deadline is less than a week away but that many nominations are still expected before then.
Jones, for his part, thinks the world of volunteers and gives all of them credit for the role that they play in society, regardless of whether they ever get to award-winning status.
“It’s an incredible base of volunteers that we have here in St. Albert,” he said.
“Across the province volunteers are helping to build the kind of welcoming, inclusive and caring communities that we can all be proud of,” said Culture Minister Heather Klimchuk in a prepared statement.
“Now is the time to honour the young people who have stepped forward bringing their talents and energy to serve their communities and the veteran volunteers who continue to be the leaders in making things happen and getting the job done.”
Pat Phelan, director of volunteer centre services, seconded that sentiment.
“I would love to see St. Albert come forward and nominate, particularly I’d love them to nominate youth. There are youths in this community that are amazing!” she said.
“I would really, really, really encourage parents in our community that know that their kids are doing such great things. Sometimes we’re afraid to single people out. It’s not singling out, it’s motivating others to do the same for their community.”
She stressed that she can also help people with their nominations.
Nominees must meeting the following criteria:
• exemplifies the spirit of community service;
• demonstrates exemplary initiative, leadership, and creativity in his/her service to others;
• serves as a role model for others in his/her community;
• inspires others to engage in volunteer service; and
• improves the overall quality of life of fellow Albertans and community as a whole.
There are two awards given out in each of three categories for youth, adult and seniors.
The awards will be handed out at a special ceremony on or around Dec. 5, also known as International Volunteer Day.
The deadline for nominations is on Tuesday, Sept. 25. To learn more or to make an application, call 780-415-8139 (or call 310-0000 for toll-free access) or visit www.culture.alberta.ca/voluntarysector/stars.
