An Olds High School educational assistant received the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Award, one of only six presented in Alberta.
Alberta Culture Minister Heather Klimchuk presented the award to Bev Toews, who has worked at the school for 12 years.
The award highlighted the Olds High School designation as part of the UNESCO Associated Schools Network. It signifies the accomplishment of a substantial number of successful projects.
Toews contributed to these initiatives well beyond what is required, including her leadership roles with the school’s exchange students.
She’s also equally involved in community endeavours, from sewing quilts for various raffles to her involvement with the Fair Trade committee, the Advisory Group for Sustainable Living and the Kiwanis Music Festival.
It’s estimated that Toews contributes 50 volunteer hours per week.
Gayleen Roelfsema, vice-principal for Olds High School, said that sometimes living in rural Alberta might lead an individual to believe that issues like environmental sustainability, human rights and intercultural education opportunities might not immediately surface.
“Bev has created a culture in our town that gives voice and power to these important issues, and is able to help educate not only our young adults, but our whole community around some of these issues,” said Roelfsema.
Toews said she’s always got a lot of enjoyment from making good things happen and she didn’t think it would lead to an award.
“It’s really just my personality and my lifestyle to bring people together, or to address an injustice, or to take the opportunity to help fill a need,” said Toews.