Why not nominate a volunteer star today?

By Joan Janzen

The spirit of volunteerism is a cornerstone of strong communities and nowhere is this truer than in rural towns in Alberta, such as Hanna, Oyen, Cereal, Youngstown and many more. The Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards recognize extraordinary Albertans whose volunteer efforts have contributed to the well-being of their community and fellow community members. However this opportunity is dependent upon citizens in these communities taking the time and making the effort to nominate those people in their communities who go above and beyond while serving their communities.

Two awards are given in each of four categories: youth (up to 24 years old), adult, senior and Breaking Barriers. The awards are presented annually on or around International Volunteer Day on December 5th, and the September 15th deadline for nominations is quickly approaching.

It’s time to nominate a valuable community volunteer for a Stars of Alberta Award. It’s been a few years since local Alberta residents Peggy Rehill (2015) and Barb Burgemeister (2016) were nominated and received the award.

Volunteers change lives, so if you know someone who selflessly gives to a non-profit or charity, why not take the opportunity to nominate them for an award? Two of the slogans for the awards read ‘take thank you to another level’ and ‘your chance to give back to those who give back’.

Nominating someone for the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards is straightforward. To access the nomination form and guidelines, visit the official website at albertastarsvolunteer.ca/nominate

The process begins by filling out and signing the nomination form. A letter of nomination and a letter of consent signed by the nominee are also required, plus one or two letters of reference are recommended to strengthen the nomination. Only one category may be selected for each nomination, and group nominations are not accepted.

Alberta’s rural towns and villages have a strong legacy of giving back to their communities. Volunteers are the ones who make things happen, and they are especially important in less populated towns and villages.

In 2016 and 2015, two volunteers from Hanna were recognized for their contributions. They were Peggy Rehill in 2015 and Barb Burgemeister in 2016. But volunteerism has continued to thrive in Hanna and surrounding communities since then. Just take a look around your community; it won’t take long before you realize the value volunteers play in keeping organizations and programs operating.

Food banks, thrift stores, hospital auxiliaries, community gardens, rodeos, sports programs, vacation Bible schools, kids camps and care homes all rely on volunteers on a regular basis. Your nomination will contribute to shining a light on incredible volunteer contributions, and will also inspire others to follow in their footsteps.