One of Canada’s preeminent philanthropists will headline the Red Deer Citizen of the Year spring gala.
Stephen Lewis — professor, author, former UN Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa and Canadian ambassador to the UN — will talk about volunteerism and community leadership at the Memorial Centre event on April 30.
“He’s just really seen and done it all,” said nominating committee chairwoman Elaine McFadden. “His leadership qualities will really resonate, I think, with the people interested in coming to the awards gala.”
The SERVUS-sponsored and Rotary Clubs of Red Deer-presented gala is almost two months away, but nominations for the award close on March 26, as do nominations for the Red Deer Young Citizen of the Year.
The official award criteria are length of service to the community of Red Deer (outside of one’s employment), residency and personal background, legacy and impact created in and enhancement of the community, and the breadth of impact.
The Young Citizen award criteria are demonstrated leadership and community service commitment, residency and personal background, breadth of impact and the need to be under age 26.
“Volunteering is a really important part of our community and there are a lot of people who do that. Sometimes you find someone who goes the extra mile, who puts a lot of time, energy and thought into their volunteering. And it has a huge impact on the community, not just in the time they’re there, but in the future, as well,” said McFadden.
She listed off some of the ways volunteer work affects the city, including hosting events like the hockey world juniors and Olympic torch run celebrations, helping run organizations like the SPCA and fundraising for public institutions like the hospital.
Volunteerism affects everybody, she said. “There are just so many efforts going on in the community and people don’t always recognize it,” said McFadden.
Nominations forms are available online at www.reddeer.ca or www.rotaryclubofreddeer.ca, or in person at City Hall, the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce or the Red Deer Advocate.
Tickets are $100 for the gala and are available at the Black Knight Inn or www.blackknightinn.ca
mgauk@www.reddeeradvocate.com