Medal of Good Citizenship: P-S
Last updated on April 29, 2025M–O < Previous
Next > T–Z
Browse recipients by last name. Search for a name using 'Ctrl+F' to jump to a specific recipient. Biographies reflect achievements at time of appointment.
An asterisk (*) indicates that the recipient is deceased.
P
Sylvie “Silvakantie” Pather
In 1973, Sylvie Pather and her family left South Africa and emigrated to Canada due to the Apartheid Regime in the country. She experienced firsthand the poverty that the black population endured. Working as a nurse she also developed a love, caring and empathy for people marginalized in the community. On arrival to Canada, Sylvie worked at Lionsgate Hospital in nursing for 30 years. During that time she participated in various social activities at the hospital including the organization of retirement, Christmas and farewell staff parties. She has worked with various organizations dedicating almost 40 years of her life to serving the community.
Her volunteerism has included working with the Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society for over 23 Years. She donated eggs and cold meats to the society, which was a luxury to the clients, and participated in weekly preparation of sandwiches for the homeless and those in need in the Downtown East side community. She also helped to serve dinners during the Christmas season.
Sylvie volunteered for the North Shore Crisis Services Society (NSCSS), (formerly known as Emily Murphy House), where she volunteered for four years and later became their Public Relations person for 10 years. She campaigned with United Way (affiliated with NSCSS) for funding and took her booths to social events to make women aware of NSCSS and all relevant information they needed. She also took part in campaigning and fundraising for a new and safe transition house on the North Shore, where women in crisis can be safe leaving their abusive situation.
For 15 years Sylvie organized the Diwali Celebration also known as The Festival of Lights. This event encouraged much of the South-Asian community to come together with those of other cultures in celebration.
She volunteered for five years donating food to support the work of Harvest Project on the North Shore. The Harvest Project is an organization that helps people through difficult transitional periods in their lives such as job loss, divorce, illness or injury. At Harvest Project, she volunteered as an ambassador to the community, where she helped support the food-drive program with schools and other groups by giving presentations on the North Shore. At the grocery depot, she helped create a welcoming and inclusive space for clients. Her work has helped transform the lives of hundreds of North Shore residents such as single parents, new residents and other people who are transitioning through serious crises in their lives. The contributions made by her enabled individuals and families to reconnect and become more productive members of the community.
Presently with North Shore Neighborhood House, Sylvie continues to demonstrate tremendous dedication in her volunteer work and commitment to their service program. She continues to faithfully volunteer her time with St. Andrew’s Church in the community kitchen making sandwiches and distributing them to people as part of their meal program which has just been discontinued.
Sylvie also continues her volunteering efforts with the Highland’s United Church Saturday Lunch Program where she helps in the kitchen serving soup to people. Her warm personality exudes hospitality to the guests, among them being the unsheltered homeless. Her friendliness and compassion has touched many people’s lives. Every year she contributes to the food hampers assembled for guests.
At the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, Sylvie volunteers as an ambassador and greeter and helps transform a potentially stigmatizing space into a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where people are treated with dignity and respect. She demonstrates a considerable amount of competency when engaging with people who have experienced a number of different life difficulties, along with the food insecurity and poverty that bring them there. The food bank has an edible food garden where clients can purchase vegetables at a nominal price and if they do not have any money, Sylvie will cover the cost of the food. She has shown great amounts of empathy for people who are living with various challenges in their lives.
Sylvie believes that the satisfaction of volunteering outweighs every other job that you can do. “It is just so satisfying.”
- Year Awarded: 2018
- City: North Vancouver
- Region:
Mainland/Southwest
Kris Patterson
Kris Patterson has helped raise more than $1 million for literacy programs in the Alberni Valley. He has published eight books and donated the proceeds towards various community organizations including the local museum, community arts council, and Compassionate Friends Society.
Kris has a passion for local history. He writes a weekly historical column for the local newspaper and spent 500 hours digitizing radio interviews that his late father conducted about the history and growth of the area. He donated the interviews and a collection of historical photos to the Alberni Valley Museum. Kris received the 2013 Heritage Award for his commitment to the preservation of cultural heritage.
For more than 25 years, Kris has been a long-standing volunteer with several Port Alberni organizations including:
- The Raise a Reader Campaign
- Canada Day celebrations
- Junior A hockey
- Port Alberni Non-Profit Housing
- Compassionate Friends Organization
- Alberni Valley Museum
- Chamber of Commerce
- Dragon Boat Society
- Community Arts Council
- Young Professionals
- Alberni Clayquot Regional District Solid Waste Planning Committee
- Alberni Valley Hospice Society
Kris transformed the pain and loss of losing his child into a grief and loss book, which was welcomed by the Compassionate Friends Organization and the library at BC Children’s Hospital. He also personally donated a child heart monitor to Children’s Hospital.
Patterson has a reputation for serving his community to the fullest. He has been recognized as a “Top 20 under 40” finalist three years in a row.
- Year Awarded: 2018
- City: Port Alberni
- Region: Vancouver Island/Coast
John Phare *
John Phare, a Roberts Creek tree faller, was the first recipient of the Medal of Good Citizenship.
John, who was honoured posthumously, spent his entire working life in the logging industry and worked as a faller, felling danger trees on the Old Sechelt Mine fire during the unusually busy 2015 fire season. The 60-year-old father of three died while fighting the Old Sechelt Mine fire on July 5, 2015.
- Year Awarded: 2015
- City: Roberts Creek
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Amber Price
The Book Man’s owner, Amber Price is a bright light of progress and positivity in Chilliwack. With a downtown business, she’s witnessed the devastation of the opioid crisis, homelessness, increased property crimes, violence and fear that was driving residents away from the once vibrant downtown. She didn’t despair. Instead, Amber is instilling vibrancy, inclusion and civic pride in Chilliwack.
Amber organized cleanup crews and alongside the volunteers she recruited, she swept the sidewalks and picked up garbage in Chilliwack’s historic downtown. Amber saw the core needed basic necessities and pushed for city funding. She inspired others and crowd sourced money through GoFundMe for murals and property improvements.
Compassion also drives her. Amber co-organized the collection of 8,000 bottles of water, sunscreen and aloe vera that were provided to the needy during the heatwave. Public lighting downtown has improved immensely because she saw the need, and took the initiative to apply for grants to solve the problem.
She started fundraising for bike helmets to ensure all kids could safely use the new public Pump Track. She fundraised and curated public art to show diversity and acceptance making the downtown more vibrant.
One weekend, when demonstrators protested COVID-19 vaccines and safety precautions at the hospital, Amber saw that hospital workers’ morale was low. She organized a community delivery of thousands of dollars of donated gift cards, gift baskets and snacks for the healthcare workers to show appreciation for their dedication and relentless sacrifices.
In her store Amber has hung rainbow flags and promoted the October Purple Lights campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence. Amber is inspiring Chilliwack to embrace diversity and inclusion through her Rainbow Crosswalk Initiative after city hall’s bylaw denied one. Her same progressive and positive attitude is one that she shares on the boards she is on.
- Year Awarded: 2021
- City: Chilliwack
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Q
Stephanie Quon
In August 2017, Stephanie Quon founded the Sprouts Initiative, a community organization focused on three pillars: environmental action, accessibility and mental health advocacy. The Sprouts Initiative was inspired by Stephanie’s desires to preserve and protect the environment, increase accessibility for all, and contribute to mental health and wellness initiatives in the community.
The Sprouts Initiative has involved leadership and volunteer participation from more than 100 youth, and has collectively received more than $26,000 in grants.
With the End-of-Day Bread Project, product was collected from bakeries and stores and donated to local shelters, both minimizing waste and supporting marginalized populations. As of August 2020, the initiative has successfully donated more than 10,000 meals to those in need. With the Reusable Straws Project, reusable straws were given out to community members, with the goal of hosting positive conversations about sustainability and plastic use. This initiative also distributed 2,250 reusable straws, free of charge to the community.
For the past two years, Stephanie has independently partnered with organizations to initiate projects centred on accessibility. So far, she has received two $10,000 grants to upgrade automated doors at a Vancouver hospital and at Neil Squire Society, a $6,000 grant to fund sensory resources for Canucks Autism Network, a $3,000 grant to fund resources for students with developmental disabilities at her past high school, and $2,500 towards the new Sunny Hill Rehabilitation Centre at BC Children’s Hospital.
Stephanie founded the Hidden Messages Project, an interactive art initiative that features art from local artists printed on cards hidden around the world for people to find. Over the past year the project has printed and distributed 13,000 pieces of art across Canada. Stephanie also organized a mental wellness care package project for high school students, called “self-sustainability” kits, and distributed 300 packages to high school students.
- Year Awarded: 2020
- City: Vancouver
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
R
David Reid *
David Reid was more than a trail builder; he was a community weaver. Trails, the veins of connection, were his medium. Beyond being pathways for walking, hiking, running, skiing and biking, Dave recognized their profound role in uniting British Columbians. These trails were not just recreational; they were the meeting grounds after work, where stories were shared, and connections deepened. They were the conduits to the province's breathtaking landscapes, linking people to nature and each other, echoing the ancient ways of movement and communication.
Dave's legacy unfolded over 15 years of voluntary dedication to trail building, crafting 18 exceptional mountain biking trails that form the core network in Squamish. Drawing over a million trail enthusiasts annually, these trails contribute over $10 million to Squamish's economy. But Dave's vision extended beyond biking; he uniquely sought to unite diverse trail communities — hikers, runners and dirt bikers — under a shared vision of a world-class trail network.
In 2019, Dave assumed the role of trail crew manager and lead builder for the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA), transitioning from building trails to leading efforts for trail sustainability and inclusivity. Beyond constructing trails, Dave envisioned and secured approval for the Mikayla Martin Memorial Trail, a cornerstone accessible to diverse riders, emphasizing the need for trails to be accessible to all.
Recognizing the importance of stewardship, Dave redirected his focus to trail maintenance, expanding a small crew to dedicate 3,000+ hours annually to uphold the excellence of the existing trail system. Dave advocated for sustainable practices, sharing insights on weather-resistant construction and became a role model in his field.
Dave Reid passed away in August 2022.
- Year Awarded: 2023
- City: Squamish
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
George Reifel, O.B.C.
George Reifel is the catalyst who has worked quietly and diligently in the background, applying his business acumen to pull together the partners, the funding, the agreements and finally the securement of thousands of hectares of conservation properties, protected forever for British Columbians.
He has provided volunteer leadership for almost four decades to Ducks Unlimited and the British Columbia Waterfowl Society, three decades to The Nature Trust of British Columbia and two decades to the Pacific Salmon Foundation.
George continues to serve as an Honorary Director of Ducks Unlimited Canada, on the Advisory Board of The Nature Trust of British Columbia and as a Director Emeritus of the Pacific Salmon Foundation.
George is the strength behind the Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Delta. This magnificent and internationally significant wetland was created by his grandfather, dedicated to Canada by his father and George continues to provide oversight and financial support through the British Columbia Waterfowl Society which has managed the Sanctuary since 1963. Over 100,000 people now visit the Sanctuary annually, including thousands of school children discovering wildlife and wetlands through its nature education and interpretive programs.
As a Director of Ducks Unlimited Canada and The Nature Trust of British Columbia, George was responsible for the securement of many high profile conservation properties in B.C., including the South Arm Marshes complex and several agricultural properties in the Fraser River Delta, the 10,000 acre Hoodoos property in the Kootenays, Widgeon Valley in Coquitlam, Englishman River riparian, Buttertubs Marsh in Nanaimo, DL 1375 on Savary Island, the Koeye estuary near Bella Bella and Kumdis Slough in Haida Gwaii.
In the 1980's, George established and chaired the B.C. Corporate Campaign for the Canadian Cancer Society and served as the Chair of the Real Estate and Finance Division for the United Way.
- Year Awarded: 2020
- City: Vancouver
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Ron Rice
Ron Rice is a dedicated Indigenous community leader, volunteer and board chair, exemplifying good citizenship and a commitment to delivering to those in need. He is a role model, innovative and makes a huge difference, especially for underserved urban Indigenous peoples.
Ron has been the executive director of the Victoria Native Friendship Centre (VNFC) for the past five years, after serving as volunteer board chair for 14 years. During his time as chair, the centre went from an organization recovering from deep debt, to one with an operating budget of $8 million with three buildings for affordable housing. As the board chair, this took grit, hard work, a certain amount of risk-taking with a strong belief in the core values of the organization and the community. During his tenure the centre's budget and staff have grown annually by 30 percent. Ron was determined to expand funding sources to include the private sector, beyond cyclical government funding. His vision has been realized as now 25 percent of all funds for urban Indigenous programing are from private sources. This is a first for the VNFC.
While leading the charge at the VNFC, Ron served on the board of the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness, the Raven Investment Impact Foundation and at Camosun College for six years during a time of great expansion for the college. Now he is on the board of Island Health, overseeing a budget of $3.1 billion, expanding health services for Indigenous peoples, as well as changing the culture of racial discrimination that has plagued the health care system by holding a seat on the provincial In Plain Sight Task Team. Ron provides the selfless, steady, Indigenous leadership and insight that has been missing.
In his spare time, Ron organizes the Back to School Picnic province-wide. Children and families look forward to the annual picnic, which pre-COVID, delivered school supplies to 3,500 Indigenous children in 11 B.C. communities. Ron raises the funds for the supplies, the food, and the games. Then the circus goes on the road with Ron at the wheel of the rental truck. Hundreds of volunteers are needed for this fun day. Everyone is happy to be involved and to see underserved children be thrilled with their backpacks. What started out as a poverty relief program to provide school supplies to underserved urban Indigenous families, has become a way of looking at going back to school differently. The picnic has changed how elders view school, helping to heal the pain of the past and breaking the cycle of trauma experienced at residential schools. It is true reconciliation.
- Year Awarded: 2022
- City: Victoria
- Region: Vancouver Island/Coast
Rory Richards
Rory Richards started the 7 p.m. cheer for health care workers at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. That cheer was simply one of countless acts of activism, community mindedness, and quiet heart-led leadership that have defined her for decades.
Here are just a few of the people who Rory has positively affected:
- A nurse who speaks to the impact to the health care community of the 7 o'clock cheer.
- A film and TV producer who was drawn into supporting refugee rescue efforts by Rory's calls to action.
- A rabbi who praises Rory's activism as “holy impatience”.
- A retired social worker who felt she was still able to contribute to her community and the world due to Rory's example of good works.
- A businessman who praises Rory's entrepreneurial skill that balances building successful companies with supporting her employees and the wider community.
She is the rare epitome of servant leadership. She listens. She cares. She serves quietly and leads by example time and again. It happened when she raised awareness about social issues by shopping local or reducing use of single use plastics. It happened when she got a “Group of Five” to sponsor a Syrian refugee – and then kept going, quietly sponsoring and putting together more and more citizen led circles. She continually points the spotlight towards others.
Rory is incomparably generous with her time, an unsung hero whose selflessness, positive attitude and unwavering commitment to modelling conscious care for people and our environment are done in her “spare time”.
She is a proud Jewish and Indigenous woman who is decolonizing business as usual, and living her vision of a world where our actions reflect the truth that we are all interconnected, and our survival relies on doing the right thing for each other and our planet more often.
- Year Awarded: 2021
- City: Vancouver
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Joseph Roberts
As a homeless youth trapped in drug addiction and living on the streets of East Vancouver in the 1980s, Joseph Roberts made two promises: (1) if he was ever able to escape his fate, he would do something to turn his life around, and (2) he would pay it forward.
In 1991 Roberts entered recovery and by 1996 made the Dean's List as an Honour Roll Graduate at Loyalist College in Belleville, Ontario. He graduated with a 3.94 grade point average and earned two business diplomas.
As fate would have it, Roberts became a successful entrepreneur by 2000, and made his first million in sales before he turned 35.
Since his own recovery, Roberts has inspired hundreds and thousands of Canadians with his personal story of transformation. He has written several books including Don’t Buy the Lie About Getting High (for school students), Fred the Cat (a cartoon of Roberts’ story) and his best-seller: 7 Secrets to Profit from Adversity.
Roberts left the corporate world in 2003 to pursue his passion for public speaking. His words have filled people with hope and inspiration: Despite what adversity you find yourself in, you have it within yourself to overcome.
In 2016/17, to pay it forward Roberts pushed a shopping cart across Canada over 17 months in a campaign called The Push for Change. His goal was to raise funds and awareness to prevent youth homelessness.
In preparing for his 17-month walk across Canada, Roberts volunteered for over three years to build the campaign – it was 100% funded by sponsors before the launch.
Roberts walked 24 kilometres per-day for 517 days. During this time, he engaged thousands of Canadians with his personal story and message: Prevention is the key to ending youth homelessness.
The walk raised $570,000 which was donated to charitable partners like Raising the Roof.
For his achievements and contributions to youth homelessness, Roberts has received many awards, including:
- The Governor General of Canada's Meritorious Service Medal in 2018
- Senate 150 Anniversary Medal in 2017
- OPP Highest Civilian Honour in 2017
- OPP Honorary Doctorate from Laurentian University in 2016
- Ontario Premier’s Award in 2004
- Courage to Come Back Award in 2003
In 2003, Roberts was nominated by Maclean’s Magazine as one of 10 Canadians that make a difference. His story was also included in the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario’s 150 stories published for Canada’s 150 Anniversary. He received Business in Vancouver’s 40 under 40 in 1999 and Zoomer Magazine’s 45 over 45 in 2012.
- Year Awarded: 2019
- City: Langley
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Thelma Rodriguez
For the past decade, Thelma Rodriguez has been a vital advocate for migrant farm workers in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge. She tirelessly addresses their basic needs, sourcing food, clothing, shoes and suitcases, and arranging crucial services like translation and medical appointments. Thelma’s compassionate approach includes welcoming these workers with grocery-filled bags and organizing community events to provide entertainment and prizes, making their long stays away from home better. Additionally, she provides bicycles to facilitate their transportation to workplaces, significantly easing their daily commute.
Through her dedicated fundraising and community outreach, Thelma has raised significant awareness about the struggles faced by migrant workers, who often endure months of separation from their families and experience profound loneliness. Her efforts have not only brought these issues to light but have also fostered a community spirit where residents are more empathetic and supportive, greeting and helping workers they encounter.
Thelma’s influence extends beyond direct support; she has established strong connections with local organizations and businesses, such as the Family Education and Support Centre, to create a robust network of aid for these workers. Her initiatives ensure that migrant workers receive comprehensive support, from healthcare and education to legal aid and social integration.
Her work has profoundly impacted the lives of many, creating a sense of inclusivity and unity within the community. Thelma exemplifies the power of compassion and dedication, inspiring others and leaving a lasting positive impact on Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. Her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment make her a true champion for migrant farm workers.
- Year Awarded: 2024
- City: Pitt Meadows
- Region: Mainland/ Southwest
Dr. Patricia Roy
Dr. Patricia E. Roy is a pioneering scholar. She has published eight books, three edited volumes and 47 journal articles and book chapters about the history of British Columbia’s politics, economy, and the causes and effects of racism encountered by its Chinese and Japanese communities. Roy was among the first scholars to write extensively about Asian immigration to B.C.
During her 40-year career as an educator at the University of Victoria, Roy helped British Columbians better understand themselves and their institutions. She has continued that work in retirement by publishing the biography of Richard McBride, premier 1903-1915, and a commissioned official history of the Royal British Columbia Museum and Archives.
Roy’s research and service have been recognized in Japan and by B.C.’s Japanese Canadian and Chinese Canadian communities. Her scholarship has also worked its way into the common knowledge of British Columbians through grade-school textbooks.
Roy’s contribution to the province extends beyond her academic career to her remarkable voluntary service in promoting public interest in B.C.’s history. She has served as president of the Victoria Historical Society, is a past president of the Friends of the BC Archives, and is a past president and past honorary president of the BC Historical Federation. Through the University of Victoria Speakers’ Bureau, she has given many talks on historical subjects to local seniors’ groups and service clubs.
Roy has served on the boards of the Chinese Canadian Historical Association, the Canadian Historical Association, the Organisation for History in Canada, the Canadian Studies Association, and the Canadian Museum of Civilization.
In recognition of her expertise, she has been invited to advise Parks Canada and the Canadian Museum of Civilization. She has served, and continues to serve, on the editorial boards of BC Studies, and Historical Studies, a publication of the Canadian Catholic Historical Association.
Roy has improved our understanding of B.C.’s past and continues to contribute to the understanding of modern B.C. through her scholarship, teaching and service.
- Year Awarded: 2019
- City: Victoria
- Region: Vancouver Island/Coast
Marilyn Rushton
Marilyn Rushton was honoured with the medal for her inspirational life of service to the visually impaired community, her contributions to families with blind and visually impaired children, and her energetic support for the musical community.
Blind since birth, Marilyn is a powerful role model, teacher, and gifted musician. She has volunteered countless hours with the Maple Leaf Singers; and is the director and accompanist for The Tempos, a choir for blind and partially-sighted children, youth and adults. Marilyn is the president of the BC Vision Teacher's Association and this year served as chairperson for the Canadian Vision Teachers’ Conference entitled Seeing Beyond the Horizon. She serves on the board of Blind Beginnings, a non-profit that supports B.C. families with blind/partially-sighted children.
Among her many other contributions, Marilyn was co-director and accompanist for the Burnaby Children’s Choir, has been a governor on the Douglas College board, and a board member for the Burnaby Hospice Society. In the 1990s she was a Burnaby school trustee and effectively used the role to advocate for diversity and equity in public education. Her contributions in education are recognized through her membership in DKG International, an honorary society of women educators; and PEO, a North America-wide organization which provides educational opportunities for women.
- Year Awarded: 2016
- City: Burnaby
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Ken* & Lou Ryan
Ken and Lou Ryan were a dynamic North Burnaby couple that for decades stepped up to either organize or volunteer for a myriad of events and services in the community. Ken passed away in 2017 but the community legacy created by him and his wife Lou will continue.
For the past 23 years they were the engine behind the Burnaby North Community Fair in Kensington Park, which promotes businesses and organizations and gives families a chance to come together in the summer time, ride the midway and listen to live music. Every year the couple ran a Christmas Holiday hamper program, approaching local businesses and community members for donations to fill gift hampers with non-perishable food items and other everyday essentials for low-income families.
The couple regularly rolled up their sleeves to help at food banks, school hotdog days, and at the Lochdale Community School Christmas pancake breakfast. In the course of serving during Homelessness Action Week, they met a homeless man who made such an impact on them that they invited him to live in their home and join them in their community volunteer activities.
That man, Wes Thompson, passed away this year as a loved member of the Ryan family, no longer homeless and no longer isolated.
In the 1990s Ken created Comshare, a North Burnaby Community Association summer camp program that provides six weeks of camp experiences and outdoor adventure for children in Grades K to 6. He also served over the years as the acting treasurer of the BNCA, president of Burnaby Optimists, as well as Block Watch Captain, working closely with the local RCMP.
Under the auspices of the Optimists, Ken and Lou organized Burnaby’s Got Talent performances which helps fund bursaries for deserving children within Burnaby, as well as the Optimist Communication Contest, a scholarship for deaf and hard of hearing students.
Together Ken and Lou were very active with Volunteer Burnaby and the Lochdale Community Association.
- Year Awarded: 2017
- City: Burnaby
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
S
Lita Salanski *
Lita Salanski passed away in September 2015 and her legacy to her community will continue for future generations. The posthumous honour, accepted by her family, recognizes the impact she had on Grasmere, its ranching and farming community, educational infrastructure and spiritual foundation through her involvement with the Triangle Women's Institute (TWI), the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association, Canadian Council of Cattlemen, East Kootenay College Board and Grasmere United Church.
At the same time Lita was adjusting to married life, raising a family and building and running a business, she became involved in the many projects of the TWI. Her leadership skills along with her enthusiasm played a major role in TWI's success in bringing a modern highway, electric power and telephone to the isolated community of Grasmere. She spent countless hours writing letters, lobbying the government, knocking on doors and selling the idea that the residents of Grasmere were part of British Columbia and needed to have the amenities others took for granted.
She was passionate about the need for education and became a local school board trustee and later became the chairman of the board. Lita was a founding member of the East Kootenay Community College board and later an honorary member of its board. She worked to improve the economy of the area through her involvements in local farming organizations, leading her to become the first female president of the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association. She also served on the Canadian Council of Cattlemen board.
Her service to her community extended to many other organizations like 4-H and the Grasmere United Church and she was instrumental in ensuring the congregation established a place of worship within the community.
- Year Awarded: 2016
- City: Grasmere
- Region: Kootenay
Marion Sallenbach
Marion Sallenbach, a resident of Winfield, was honoured for her many years of volunteerism within the community, her selfless actions having a tremendous impact on countless families in the Okanagan.
An active volunteer in the community for over 50 years, Marion began volunteering with the Hospital Auxiliary in Winfield in the late 60’s, her efforts helping to raise thousands of dollars for the Kelowna General Hospital. Ten years later, she helped bring the Red Cross Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP) to Winfield and over the next four decades the impact of the BC HELP program grew, loaning 170,000 pieces of equipment – such as crutches, canes, walkers and wheelchairs – to 94,000 British Columbians in 2014-15 alone.
In addition to her work for the hospital, Marion has also volunteered with the Winfield Community Church, the Red Cross, and the Independent Order of Foresters, through which she has donated her time and expertise in a myriad of ways, which includes helping with the ‘Wheels to Meals’ for seniors, bookkeeping services, and assisting the ‘Adopt‐a‐Road’ initiative.
Now in her ninth decade, Marion continues to dedicate her time to the community, her volunteer work also complimented by the assistance of her two daughters, Joanne Galigan and Sharyn Fiwchuk, making her contributions a family affair.
- Year Awarded: 2016
- City: Winfield
- Region: Thompson/Okanagan
Jim Sawada
Jim Sawada is a community champion whose legacy is woven into the vibrant tapestry of Nelson's cultural landscape. With a heartfelt dedication spanning over five decades, Jim has left an indelible mark on the city.
In 1987, Jim's leadership played a pivotal role in building a sister city relationship with Izu-shi, Japan. His enthusiasm, alongside his wife Emiko, propelled the Friendship Society into existence, laying the foundation for enduring cultural connections.
Jim's vision truly blossomed in 2003 when he spearheaded the creation of the Cottonwood Falls Friendship Garden. Undeterred by a rocky landscape formed years earlier, Jim rallied a team of professionals and volunteers. Through his leadership, funds were raised, and the garden, a symbol of Nelson's bond with its Japanese sister city, became a reality in 2005.
Over the next decade, Jim, alongside dedicated volunteers, nurtured the garden into a blossoming sanctuary. As he approached 80, Jim's concern for the garden's future was met with a community-wide response. His ability to inspire others ensured the garden's continuity, a testament to Jim's enduring impact.
Now 90, Jim remains an active force in the Friendship Garden. From weeding and pruning to constructing the Friendship Gate and contributing to a Japanese garden shed, Jim is hands on.
Jim’s involvement in the Nelson Gyro Club for over 50 years showcases his passion for community service. A humble and enthusiastic member, Jim's construction background has been pivotal in realizing various community projects.
His cultural insight, labour and countless volunteer hours have transformed the Friendship Garden into a cherished community space. His commitment to reflection, aesthetic beauty and spiritual consolation, as noted by fellow citizens, makes Jim a beacon of civic pride.
- Year Awarded: 2023
- City: Nelson
- Region: Kootenay
Winston Sayson, K.C.
Winston Sayson, K.C., is a distinguished Filipino-Chinese Canadian who personifies the Medal of Good Citizenship virtues as demonstrated through his three-decade long legal career, steadfast service to victims of crime, dedication to the rule of law, and volunteer work.
As a teen, Winston immigrated to B.C. from the Philippines. His strong work ethic and street smarts made him the successful lawyer and community leader he is today. Winston, now retired, was an exceptional criminal barrister whose trials were prosecuted to the highest standards. Winston recognized that victims of crime frequently come from diverse ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds with many intersectional vulnerabilities. He understood how testifying could re-traumatize victims and was always able to communicate effectively with witnesses and victims to give them the strength and resiliency to take the stand. He was a pioneer in combining wellness practices with legal work and taught lawyers trauma-informed practices to minimize re-traumatization. He worked many hours above and beyond his normal workday to ensure victims were well supported.
For over three decades, Winston’s work dealt with violence which, included cases of vehicular homicide, domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. This took a toll on him. He experienced PTSD, anxiety and secondary trauma resulting from the nature of his work and the threats he received. Yet he was always courageous. As Winston healed, he shared his experience to teach lawyers, criminology students, and victims about self-care and resilience. He advocates for bringing mental wellness to the forefront in the legal profession. While a full-time Crown Counsel, he successfully studied to be a counsellor and mentor.
Winston’s outlook is similar in his personal life. He is a consummate helper for families and children at his church and community.
Winston’s dedication and valuable service to his community has been recognized. He is the recipient of the following awards that speak to the wide breadth of his impact. They include, but are not limited to:
- Police Victim Services Criminal Justice System Leadership Award (2010)
- Recognizing Excellence Award, BC ProsecutionService (2014)
- Vision Award, International Association of Forensic Nursing, for assisting the advancement of Forensic Nursing (2015)
- Leadership Award, BC Prosecution Service (2018)
- Award of Excellence, Surrey Women’s Centre (2019)
- Lawyer of Distinction, BC Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers (2019)
- Distinguished Alumni Award, Kwantlen Polytechnic University (2022)
Winston has the honour of being named a Queen’s Counsel in 2011 for exceptional merit and contribution to the legal profession. At the time, Winston was the only Filipino-Canadian Crown Counsel in the province. The influence he has had on his community is immeasurable. One example includes taking another Filipino-Canadian under his wing to mentor. Winston understood the inequities in the legal culture, and his mentorship not only made the individual a better lawyer, but instilled a hope that all lawyers could be a strong voice for justice and make a positive difference in the lives of British Columbians.
- Year Awarded: 2022
- City: Richmond
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Rishika Selvakumar
As a youth, Rishika Selvakumar gives others hope for a better world in the future. She is an avid member in the community and commits to everything she does. She's a changemaker, exemplifying the importance of taking initiative and leadership.
At the young age of 20, Rishika has accomplished and supported the community in multiple ways. Seeing a lack of mental health and wellness resources, Rishika founded the first Mental Health Club at her high school, Little Flower Academy while still in grade 10. After high school, she continued on in mental health advocacy by starting The Wellness Proposal. This virtual campaign was hosted by UBC students and aimed to create a positive mental health environment through many projects, including youth-run events and mentorship programs that served nearly 40 undergraduate students.
Beyond this, Rishika supports mental health de-stigmatization by increasing access and awareness of available mental health supports for youth, adults, and seniors as a Youth Network Lead at Anxiety Canada, as a Youth Advisor and Scholarship Panelist for CMHA-BC, and as a Co-Facilitator and Communications Volunteer for CMHA-VF.
Rishika is a passionate advocate and a force for positive change. While pursuing a Bachelor of Science from UBC between 2019 to 2022, Rishika volunteered with World Vision UBC and Right to Play UBC, worked to support undergraduate students as an Advisor and Teaching Assistant, and highlighted the Sustainable Development Goals as a Campus Director for the first UBC Chapter of the United Nations’ Millennium Fellowship program. Within her community of Richmond, Rishika has supported fundraising initiatives and celebrated cultural events as a Bharatanatyam dancer for over 15 years. Previously, she has volunteered with the Family Services of Greater Vancouver in Richmond to support immigrant families to de-stigmatize poverty during COVID-19 by organizing educational panels and donation drives with Ignite the Warmth Society. As an Olympic Experience volunteer with the Richmond Olympic Oval she supported youth volunteering and increased awareness of Olympic history for the public and tourists. Additionally, since COVID-19, Rishika has transitioned to volunteering for virtual projects with the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association to create educational resources to address accessibility concerns for those that are hard of hearing, and support tutoring and volunteer recruitment with the Mentoring the Stars Foundation. She acted as Vice-President of the Acne Education Project to coordinate presentations around acne management and prevention to over 1500+ elementary school students in the Lower Mainland in 2022 alone. Within her career, Rishika continues to show her interest in the mental health field with her work to support program management for the Heartwood Centre for Women, a treatment facility for those struggling with substance use and mental health challenges.
For her efforts, Rishika has been awarded the Academic and Artistic Achievement Award from the Mihika Arts Foundation, U-ROC Outstanding Youth Teamwork Award from the City of Richmond, and the Shooting Star Award from Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives.
Every organization she becomes involved with is driven by her enthusiasm to create change. Every person who meets her is astounded by the positivity and kindness in her heart.
Rishika’s efforts to serve her community are moving and inspirational. She truly is a good citizen who refuses to stop even during COVID-19, instead connecting virtually to help anyone. When asked what motivates her, she simply says it is what she is passionate about. She wants to make a difference in at least one person's life. She has more than succeded. She has changed the lives of many people, creating a community wherever she goes.
- Year Awarded: 2022
- City: Vancouver
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
John Scott
John Scott was honoured with the medal for his wide-ranging and selfless contributions to the community of Prince George, enriching the lives of youth, comforting those through illness and trauma, focusing well-deserved attention on the sacrifices veterans have made for Canada, and helping to revitalize the local branch of the Canadian Legion and neighbourhood commemorating veterans.
His service to community and countless hours of volunteering include support for a myriad of organizations including the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43, 2618 Canadian Army Cadets, and chairman of the Cadet League for Cariboo North, former district commissioner of the Nechako Scout district and Scout trainer II and the Legion’s Connaught Youth Centre. He is also president of the Prince George and Northern BC Chapter of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping.
The veteran peacekeeper has been instrumental in helping revitalize Prince George’s Veterans’ Land Act neighbourhood and galvanizing support for new facilities for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43. John also helped steer the Connaught Youth Centre to becoming a non-profit society that now supports a range of youth programs in the city. He is currently serving the Royal Canadian legion as a vice-president of BC/Yukon Command.
- Year Awarded: 2016
- City: Prince George
- Region: Cariboo
Patricia Shields
Patricia Shields is a former teacher and principal who is well-respected in the education community for her leadership in advancing public education and pioneering innovative programs that benefit children within and beyond the school system.
In her 30-year career with the Vancouver School Board, Shields went above and beyond to develop various education programs within the public-school system and for the community at large.
Shields is known for implementing Welcome to Kindergarten TM, a province wide program designed to support the transition of families into the public-school system. This program engages children, parents, caregivers, school staff and communities, and equips parents with resources to make early learning a priority at home. The program has touched 22,000 vulnerable families in British Columbia.
Shields has also shown her deep commitment to children through her work with various non-profit organizations. She set up the YMCA’s Education Advisory Committee and was involved in the creation of their after-school programs: Welcome to My Life and Boys 4 Real.
Shields currently serves as the chair of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Education Advisory Committee. She chaired the committee to establish the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra School of Music and recently timed off that Board. She served on the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra for several terms and assisted in developing VSO Connects, an elementary and secondary school-based program involving the Maestro, UBC music students and members of the orchestra.
She was the driving force behind the Vancouver Opera Society’s Music! Words! Opera! an education program available to lower mainland school districts. Shields is also a member of Telus Vancouver Community Board’s education sub-committee which supports youth through grants to local charities.
For the past 20 years Shields has been a champion of Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland. She created the group’s Education Advisory Committee and co-developed their Study Buddy program which helps at-risk youth from low-income households receive the tutoring support they need to excel in school and beyond.
Since its inception in 2002, Study Buddy has served over 2000 at-risk youth, and continues to benefit many more. Some participants have reported they would not have gone on to apply for post-secondary education without the confidence and skills they gained through the support of their Study Buddy.
Shields’ vision, commitment and dedication to the well-being of children has enriched the lives of countless at-risk youth, their families and communities. She continues to contribute to the Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland chapter as an Honorary Advisory Committee member.
Shields is passionate about the well-being of children and making sure they have every opportunity to succeed in school. Without her leadership, commitment and passion to bettering the lives of youth through education, many at-risk children would lack the opportunity to overcome their struggles.
- Year Awarded: 2019
- City: Vancouver
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
John Simpson
John Simpson was honoured with the medal for his pioneering services that he offered free to people with acquired brain injuries (ABI). For more than three decades John devoted thousands of hours of service and emerged as an influential advocate in the field that resulted in the formation of local and provincial supporting organizations.
It has been estimated that John has provided more than 16,000 hours of free support to individuals with acquired brain injuries and their families since the 1980s. Many of the people he helped had no funding and no one else to help them.
He set out to educate the community and professionals about ABI, establishing the first annual brain injury conference in 1982, which ran for 25 years. John was also instrumental in establishing what is now the BC Brain Injury Association, which has the first Lower Mainland drop-in centre for people with ABI and now bears his name.
In 1997, he founded the Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association and he is still active with the group that serves more than 150 clients each year in five cities.
In 2014, under his leadership, the Brain Injury Alliance was formed, to better serve the estimated 22,000 British Columbians who have ABI. Through his advocacy, the Province contributed $3 million for services provided by community-based brain injury associations. The alliance also received a $1 million endowment fund for education, employment and training for people with ABI.
- Year Awarded: 2016
- City: Chilliwack
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Cara Sinclair
Cara Sinclair now dedicates her life to improving the welfare of at-risk, often homeless, youth in Vancouver. Her goal is to help these young people exit the street and break the chain of entrenched homelessness. With this in mind, Cara founded H.E.L.P. for Youth Canada Society, a registered charity, where she volunteers fulltime. H.E.L.P. has two initiatives: Project Backpack (PBP) and funding educational bursaries.
Founded by Cara in 2005, PBP purchases backpacks, donates them to schools in the lower mainland, educates the participating students about Vancouver’s homeless crisis, arranges for the packs to be stuffed with essential items including new clothes, toiletries, rain gear and other personal effects, and delivers these packs to shelters for distribution.
Last year more than 530 packs were distributed to those in need. Since its inception, thousands of packs have benefited these youth and shelters.
Under Cara’s guidance, H.E.L.P. also awards bursaries to at-risk youth who are ready to go back to school. Bursaries have been awarded to students in 14 different occupational fields including: plumbing, pipe-fitting, early childhood education, marine engineering, dental assistance, electrical engineering, TV production and social work.
Cara has spoken at numerous events and to thousands of people. She has educated and inspired others to help. In May 2016, on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery, Cara addressed hundreds of members of the BC Nurses Union about Vancouver’s homeless youth crisis and her dream of how to make a difference. As she spoke, 260 backpacks were stuffed and donated by the nurses.
Cara’s vision and efforts have directly improved the lives of thousands of disadvantaged youth, educated thousands of others about youth homelessness, and made Vancouver a kinder place to live.
- Year Awarded: 2020
- City: Vancouver
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Natalia Skapski
Natalia Skapski has gone over and above contributing to the safety and well-being of the Capilano University community during the COVID-19 pandemic. As well, she has a long history of volunteerism locally, nationally and internationally as part of a life dedicated to the health and safety of others.
Since the pandemic began, Natalia has dedicated herself to the safe operations of all campus locations and engaging as a citizen in reconciliation through her extended canoe family.
No safety question is insignificant to Natalia; she offers equal time and patient consideration to calming an anxious employee with factual information; reassuring a student worried about attending an in-person class; or supporting a manager seeking guidance for their team. Natalia’s leadership, her guidance to others, her mentorship of a fledgling Emergency Operations Centre crew and her absolute commitment to the safety of others is awe-inspiring.
In the Fall 2021, new and returning students owe their welcomed return to CapU in-person learning to Natalia’s leadership, perseverance and personal sacrifice. Natalia collaboratively worked through a deluge of information to keep the campus safely moving forward. She has built trust by working alongside members of the community and demonstrated tenacity, fairness and unwavering commitment to public health.
Natalia volunteered for 15 years with the Red Cross both in Ontario and in B.C.. In 1993, she was deployed as a volunteer to aid the Red Cross mission to the Mississippi Floods. Natalia was one of six Vancouver-area Red Cross volunteers who assisted in the response to the 9-11 tragedy in Queens, New York.
More recently, Natalia began actively volunteering with Team Rubicon Canada. In December 2021, she was able to dedicate time to mucking-out flooded homes in the Sumas Prairie area of Abbotsford, B.C.
Natalia's life is deeply entwined with local First Nations and Indigenous values of family, caring, community and responsibility. She is a founding member of the Sema7maka (Snowbird) Squamish Nation canoe family, a member of the Pulling Together Society of canoe families. Natalia actively lives the values of uniting as people on a journey of reconciliation to make the world a better place.
- Year Awarded: 2021
- City: North Vancouver
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Dr. Michal Smialowski
Dr. Michal (Mike) Smialowski is a rural B.C. Family Physician (CCFP), GP Anesthetist (GPA) and Sport Medicine Physician (Diploma Sport Medicine) who lives in a remote area of the West Chilcotin called the Tatlayoko Valley. For the past decade he has been dedicated to providing medical care to residents of this area who otherwise would have to endure the six hour round trip to Williams Lake to consult a physician.
He and his wife Leslie moved to the Tatlayoko Valley because of their love of the mountains, the lakes and the wilderness. They have stayed because of the strong sense of community. Initially practising from an office in his home, he soon expanded to the West Chilcotin Health Centre in Tatla Lake where he joined the RN (Ruth Kuehl-Venn) to form a two-person medical team.
As a rural doctor, he was essentially on-call 24/7, 365 days a year. He was British Columbia's first volunteer Community Response Doctor with the BC Ambulance Service and was dispatched to many emergencies over the years ranging from home deliveries to critical injuries and urgent medical complications.
Although now retired, Dr. Smialowski has become an advocate for improving medical care along the Highway 20 corridor (500km Williams Lake to Bella Coola) a region which, in his estimation, has traditionally been neglected by the relevant Health Authorities. This advocacy has been facilitated through the West Chilcotin Health Care Society (WCHCS) which has raised over $90,000 (including a Health Ministry grant) to purchase much needed medical equipment for the West Chilcotin Health Centre. In addition, the Society successfully petitioned the Interior Health Authority (IHA) to place Tatla Lake on their physician manpower plan thus making it a permanent position.
Before retiring, Dr. Smialowski and the WCHCS successfully recruited a replacement physician (Dr. Rob Coetzee) who has now served the community for nearly three years. Monthly meetings now occur in collaboration with local Health Care Providers (RN, NP and MD) the Interior Health Authority (IHA) and First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) to develop an effective Medical Emergency Response Plan (MERP) for the Highway 20 corridor. A good portion of this effort is aimed at ensuring basic standards of care as well as baseline needs of emergency equipment and ongoing training.
- Year Awarded: 2017
- City: Tatlayoko
- Region: Cariboo
Tom Smithwick
Tom Smithwick is a retired lawyer living in Kelowna. Throughout his life, Smithwick has demonstrated concern, compassion and leadership to those who need emotional, financial and often physical support to thrive in society.
Smithwick’s Tom’s philosophy has been: There is always a way to get things done, a way to raise money and a way to help people. In the face of adversity, and often when others gave up, Smithwick Tom has persevered and succeeded–always to the benefit of his fellow citizens.
The creation of The Resurrection Recovery Resource Society is a reflection of Smithwick’s Tom’s determination to provide housing, counselling and support for men suffering from addiction and other mental health issues.
Now known as Freedom’s Door, this organization owns the largest group of recovery homes in B.C. Currently it can provide services for 67 men in seven purchased duplex homes. Many of theses men have come from life on the streets or jail.
Since retiring from his legal practice Smithwick Tom volunteers at Freedom’s Door and oversees fundraising and public relations for the organization, which offers free treatment. He continues to be a mentor to the residents; through counselling and support many go on to become contributing members of society.
In 1981, as founder and chairman of the Kelowna Boat People Refugee Committee, Smithwick Tom was instrumental in bringing the highest per-capita number of refugees in Canada to Kelowna. The personal success of many refugees and their families is directly related to Smithwick’s Tom’s leadership and compassion.
Smithwick Tom was also a founding director of the Kelowna Terminally ill Children’s Holiday Society. This organization was eventually replaced with the Make-A-Wish Organization, which continues in the area.
Over the years Smithwick Tom has worked tirelessly to build relationships within the community through founding, participating in or raising funds for many community organizations.
Smithwick Tom was a director and fundraiser of the Mission Creek Greenway project which raised money for improvements to the public walkways along Mission Creek. He was also a founding member of the Share Depot, a community resource selling used goods at a low price for community members who require assistance.
Smithwick’s Tom’s top priority has always been the welfare of others. Over the years he has received many awards in recognition of his service work, including:
- Caring Canadian Award by the Governor General of Canada in 2005
- Kelowna Man of the Year Award in 2000
- 125 Anniversary Medal by the Governor General of Canada in 1992
- Year Awarded: 2019
- City: Kelowna
- Region: Thompson/Okanagan
Farhad (Fred) Soofi
Farhad (Fred) Soofi has earned the respect of his community. At an event, one can witness a bow wave ripple, marking his passage through a crowded room. People will turn, smile, laugh, and greet him with enthusiasm – and he will greet them back with the same friendliness, and genuine warmth, connecting with everyone he meets.
Fred has incredible passion for his community and all its members. Many people care for others based on status, wealth, close connection - not Fred. He has been a volunteer, organizer and active member of Amnesty International for the past 45 years, where he is a constant campaigner for release of prisioners of conscience and human rights for all people, which is a testament to his commitment to inclusion and compassion.
Fred is a supporter of educational initiatives, both big and small. He is cooperating with organizations which provide educational scholarships for newcomers. He is also an integral part of everyday celebrations for local students. Through his restaurant, Fred contributes food to many community, school and sporting events and gift certificates for fundraisers.
Those small gestures may seem tiny in their individual effect, but cumulatively, over hundreds of contributions help build resources, supplies and better education for students and their families.
Fred is a sponsor of refugees from overseas. For example Turkey, a mother with three children from war torn Ukraine arrived in June 2022. Fred provided accommodations for six months rent-free and utilities free of charge.
In 1998, as part of his incredible generosity, Fred donated a five-story office complex to support an Independent Living Centre for adults with disabilities that depended on in house services. The building made possible the creation of a loving, supportive community, that provided skill development, employment, and a rich social life coordinated by the centre.
- Year Awarded: 2022
- City: Port Moody
- Region: Mainland/Southwest
Dr. Rachel Staples
Dr. Rachel Staples of Urban Smiles dentist clinic in Colwood, lost her 16-year-old son to a drug overdose in 2018, while concurrently going through treatment and radiation for breast cancer. After working tirelessly during the pandemic, in December 2020 while cycling to work she was struck by a vehicle and suffered more than 20 broken bones and a major concussion. Despite this she made herself available to her associates, her staff and her patients by phone call, video chat, and text message.
Dr. Staples had the foresight to see that the COVID-19 pandemic was not going to be a two week ordeal. While in isolation after attending the 2020 Pacific Dental Conference, Dr. Staples took the initiative to order plexiglass barriers, hospital-grade air purifiers, face shields, and disposable masks, gloves and foot coverings for her office to ensure her staff were protected, which allowed them to return to work as soon as it was safe. This also ensured her patients remained safe when they came in for appointments.
During COVID-19, Dr. Staples helped with more than 250 dental emergencies. She performed hundreds of emergency fillings, extractions, and root canals, fielding emergency phone calls in her off-hours, sometimes even returning to the office late at night after a full day of treatment.
Dr. Staples’ willingness to unhesitatingly work to alleviate the suffering of dental emergencies is the very embodiment of the virtue of good citizenship; her selflessness and dedication to the community are a constant inspiration. In the early days of this pandemic, when so much was still unknown and terrifying, she did not hesitate once when someone asked for help.
- Year Awarded: 2021
- City: Oak Bay
- Region: Vancouver Island/Coastal
Chantal Stefan
After witnessing a man searching in a garbage bin for food on a freezing Edmonton night, Chantal Stefan was so moved that she placed 88 homemade care packages of socks, mitts and sugar cookies in back alleys to be found by the homeless. She had no idea then that the project would one day grow into a not-forprofit organization with local, national, and even international impact. Since its inception in 2004, Chantal's Everybody Deserves a Smile project (EDAS) has brought holiday cheer to people experiencing homelessness.
In 2012, Chantal accepted a teaching contract at Ecole Puntledge Park Elementary in Courtney, bringing her passion for community activism to students and teachers at her school and the district, and creating the afterschool EDAS Club for youth. EDAS is a heartfelt endeavour that takes an entire school community to organize, so Chantal created an extensive resource collection connecting project outcomes to the B.C. curriculum. Under Chantal's leadership, students study social justice issues, learn compassion and empathy, and become community advocates for marginalized people. They come face to face with individuals who have experienced homelessness and addiction, many of whom are eager to speak from experience about the importance of education, avoiding substance abuse and listening to one's elders.
Comox Valley support workers and program participants testify to the power of Chantal's work. In the moment that the care package passes from the hand of a teacher or student into the hand of a person experiencing hardship, there is a connection and a key moment of acknowledgement: You are seen. You are worthwhile. You are cared for. To date, Chantal has inspired schools and communities to paint, write, bake, write cheques and donate woolen wear to the tune of 23 000 holiday care packages for homeless shelters, soup kitchens, support agencies, and those living on our streets. Despite the challenges of connecting with the community during the pandemic, Chantal is leading EDAS clubs in delivering care packages to 1355 people this season, with 910 of those benefitting from shelters in the Comox Valley. Other packages will travel to shelters across Vancouver Island, and as far away as Montreal and London, England.
Chantal's project has received several awards for its impact on student learning and community advocacy: the British Columbia Principals' and Vice-Principals' Partnership Association Award, the Comox Valley Record Hero of the Year Award and a Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce Top 40 Under 40 Award.
The Everybody Deserves a Smile project shines holiday light into the lives of individuals experiencing terrible darkness, but above all it impresses upon students - more powerfully than almost any other experience in their school years - the importance of the choices they make today in setting a course for their futures. For her tremendous efforts on behalf of both social justice education in the schools and community members experiencing hardship at Christmas time, Chantal Stefan is one of this year's recipients of the British Columbia Medal of Good Citizenship.
- Year Awarded: 2022
- City: Cumberland
- Region: Vancouver Island/Coast
Carla Stephenson
Carla Stephenson has made remarkable contributions to the arts sector in B.C., demonstrating an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. As founder and lead of the Rural Arts Inclusion Lab, director of the Pathways program, a dedicated member of the steering committee of the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance and the Insight team of Arts BC, Carla’s efforts have had a profound impact on the cultural landscape of the province. She has been instrumental in creating and leading initiatives that amplify diverse voices and bring the arts to rural and remote areas.
Carla co-founded the Tiny Lights Festival, which has become a vibrant celebration of music and arts, uniting artists and audiences from various backgrounds. Her work in developing the Rural Arts Inclusion Lab has opened doors for underrepresented artists, ensuring that the arts are accessible to everyone.
Carla is a co-leader of the Pathways Project, a partnership with B.C. Arts Council which focuses on increasing representation and inclusivity within the arts community. Beyond her professional achievements, Carla’s volunteer work is a testament to her dedication and generosity. She shares her extensive knowledge and experience with various organizations, providing invaluable guidance and support. Her efforts have empowered numerous artists and cultural groups to thrive and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Despite her incredibly full schedule Carla consistently goes above and beyond to support others and address challenges in a way that sets everyone up for success.
Carla’s leadership and advocacy have fostered a sense of unity and collaboration, overcoming geographic and resource challenges to create a more inclusive and vibrant arts community.
- Year Awarded: 2024
- City: Ymir
- Region: Kootenay
Gale Stewart
Gale Stewart’s commitment to providing support to B.C.’s most vulnerable youth and preventing them from becoming homeless spans over three decades. As founder and visionary of Aunt Leah’s Place, an award winning non-profit charitable organization in New Westminster that works at the entry and exit points of the foster care system, Gale has made a lasting and significant difference in thousands of young people’s lives. She is a source of innovative, compassionate leadership, is a generous leader and role model, and has inspired a legacy of care by building a lasting family and community for those who need it most – youth in and from the foster care system.
Aunt Leah’s was founded in 1988, with one year of funding from the Ministry for Children and Families. After that Gale found a way to keep the home open. Aunt Leah’s began independently fundraising and evolved into Aunt Leah’s Tree Lots and Urban Thrift Store that to this day give 100 per cent of their profits to Aunt Leah’s Thresholds Program.
Gale’s positive influence and thoughtful leadership is responsible for the forward thinking culture of care that has inspired a community of support and long term donor confidence. She has put Aunt Leah’s on a continued path of growth in an era where many social services are facing cut-backs and limiting services to those most in need.
The simple concept that remains the foundation of her work is the notion that nobody ages-out from a family. Aunt Leah’s is the only service provider in B.C. with no-age out limit. This is a testament to Gale’s passion and tenacity to the idea that every foster youth deserves a caring and compassionate family member on their side.
- Year Awarded: 2020
- City: New Westminster
- Region: Mainland/Southwest