Every day, they can be found throughout the community raising funds, working with youth and seniors, volunteering with service clubs and organizations, coaching kids’ sports teams, making life better for those who are unwell, organizing special events, and assisting people who are less fortunate.
And on April 7, the community will say “Thank you.”
The Township of Langley will once again host its Volunteer Appreciation event, where hundreds of people who give back so much of their time and effort will be recognized in an evening of dining, entertainment, and special presentations.
During the event, an exceptional volunteer, a couple who work together for the betterment of the community, and an outstanding youth will be honoured, and residents are asked to put forward the names of deserving candidates.
Nominations are being accepted for the Eric Flowerdew Volunteer Award, which is given in recognition of a volunteer’s contribution to the promotion of an active living lifestyle which enhances residents’ quality of life through creative, cultural, physical, or social pursuits and enhances Langley’s community spirit.
First presented in 2009, the John and Muriel Arnason Award is given to a couple for outstandingvolunteerism in the Township of Langley. Created to honour the memory of Langley Township’s first female Council member and her husband, the award recognizes two people connected by family or friendship who volunteer together to make Langley a better place.
The Pete Swensson Outstanding Community Youth Award is awarded annually to a Langley student in Grade 11 or 12 who is nominated by his or her school to recognize athletic achievements, scholastic effort, community involvement, and personal qualities. This prestigious award is in memory of Pete Swensson, an internationally recognized athlete, originator of the Langley Walk, and the Township’s first recreation director.
If you know an outstanding youth who should be considered for the Pete Swensson Award, contact his or her school principal.
Nomination forms for the Flowerdew and Arnason Awards, detailed criteria, and more information about all three awards is available on the Township of Langley’s website at tol.ca/awards.
Residents and schools must submit the names of those they feel deserve recognition by Friday, February 12.
“The Township of Langley is a wonderful place to live and work in, and so much of our great quality of life comes from the people who give back,” said Township of Langley Mayor Jack Froese. “This is our chance to express our appreciation to our volunteers and let them know what a difference they make.”
Recipients of the Flowerdew and Arnason Awards have the opportunity to make an even bigger difference where they live, as they will receive a monetary award of $750 to contribute to a recognized charity or society of their choice.
The winner of the Pete Swensson Outstanding Community Youth Award will receive a $750 scholarship to further his or her educational pursuits.
For more information, contact Sarah Morris, Township of Langley Special Events Coordinator, at smorris@tol.ca or 604-533-6148.