The provincial government is encouraging residents to nominate outstanding Airdrie volunteers for a Stars of Alberta Volunteer Award.
According to Michael Forian, press secretary for the Ministry of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women, the annual awards are a way to recognize the efforts of the province’s most extraordinary volunteers.
“[The awards] highlight the value of volunteerism and publicly recognizes the ongoing essential work and contributions of volunteers in creating strong, diverse communities,” he said.
Forian said more than 125 volunteers from across Alberta have been honoured since the awards were created in 2000.
“The work of volunteers enhances the quality of life for all Albertans, and makes our province a more welcoming place to live and work,” Forian said. “During the pandemic response, volunteers have been instrumental in supporting their communities and ensuring Albertans are cared for and safe.”
This year, according to Forian, nine awards will be distributed, including two each for a youth category – 24 years and under – and two each for adults and seniors.
“If the person nominating them is able to show us they demonstrate initiative, leadership and creativity during the course of their volunteer activities, that’s the kind of nominee we are looking for,” Forian said. “We want to see how the nominee serves as a role model in their community and inspires others to engage with that type of volunteerism.”
In addition to the six usual awards, this year will see the introduction of the Breaking Barriers category. According to Forian, these three awards will recognize people who have promoted equality or reduced barriers for marginalized groups through their volunteering activities, advocacy and leadership.
“It does take leadership to be able to break barriers, and I think that’s what we’re seeing more and more of in today’s day and age,” he said.
The Breaking Barriers category will include awards for fighting against racism, combatting gender discrimination and supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
After the award winners have been determined, the recipients will be honoured at an awards ceremony Dec. 4, a day before International Volunteers Day. Details on the award ceremony will be provided closer to the date, Forian said. He added being able to host the event in person will depend on the status of COVID-19 in the province.
While volunteers do not typically do what they do for recognition, Forian said the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards are a way to celebrate their efforts in making the world a better place.
“If you look at Alberta, [we have] more than 26,000 non-profit organizations, with more than 1.6 million volunteers,” he said. “These civil society groups and volunteers are taking the lead in making Alberta a compassionate society, so it’s important...Alberta’s government and Minister [Leela] Aheer show our support and honour these extraordinary volunteers who make a difference in their community.”
Forian noted non-profit groups generate a gross domestic product of roughly $21 billion annually.
“We’re pleased to recognize the difference they make and it’s a difference that touches all Albertans,” he said.
Nominations are open until Sept. 15. To nominate someone, visit alberta.ca/stars-awards. According to Forian, there is a form that can be filled out and emailed to [email protected]
A letter from the nominator about the nominee’s volunteerism and a list of references is also required.
For more information on the program, visit alberta.ca/stars-awards
Scott Strasser, AirdrieToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @scottstrasser19
