Call for Nominations for BC Community Achievement Awards
By Contributor
They come from BC’s biggest cities and the smallest towns. They are young, old and in-between. They are people who boldly develop the grand plan or who quietly put it into play.
They are the recipients of the British Columbia Community Achievement Awards, one of the most prestigious honors bestowed on those British Columbians who make life better in their communities. And right now, the foundation that administers the awards is seeking your help with nominations for the 2015 award.
“Each year, we receive inspiring nominations for people from all walks of life who contribute selflessly to their communities,” says Nora Newlands, executive director of the BC Community Achievement Foundation.
The awards were launched in 2004 by the BC Achievement Foundation, an independent foundation established and endowed by the Province of BC. Each year, 30 British Columbians representing communities throughout the province are honoured at a special ceremony at Government House in Victoria. The contributors are remarkable for the diverse ways they enhance life in their communities through their work or their volunteer activities. Deadline for nominations is Nov. 15.
“These awards will honour people who contribute in a range of pursuits – sports and recreation, arts and culture, environment, multiculturalism, healthcare, education, civic duty, business innovation, community volunteerism, and youth or seniors’ leadership,” said Newlands.
“At the same time, we don’t limit the awards to just these categories. The selection panel is open to any community contribution.”
For example, then 16-year-old Amanda Neil of Delta was honored a few years ago for her a campaign to raise money for grave markers for forgotten soldiers at Vancouver’s Mountain View Cemetery.
Richard Murakami of Salt Spring Island had led a life of non-stop giving to his community, including major support for a social housing project that allows people to stay on the Gulf Island.
Visit the BC Community Achievement Foundation website http://www.bcachievement.com/community/recipients.php. At the website, they will find all the recipients recognized since 2003 as well as a description of their contributions. Nomination forms and an online nomination link with instructions are also available there.
