Volunteer award nominations open

By Janet Kanters Times Editor

Nominations are open for the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards, recognizing those who make a lasting impact in their community.
According to Leela Sharon Aheer, Alberta’s Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women, and Chestermere-Strathmore MLA, Alberta’s 1.6 million volunteers are the heartbeat behind the recreational, social and cultural programs that make the province a great place to live.
“Let’s honour our outstanding volunteers who go above and beyond to spark change and brighten our communities,” she said in a news release.
The Stars of Alberta awards highlight and pay tribute to volunteers who give their time, energy and skills to make a difference in the lives of Albertans. Two awards are given in each of three categories: youth (up to 24 years of age), adult and senior.
Emma Moore, 14, of Strathmore, received a Stars of Alberta Volunteer Award in 2018 for her continued volunteerism. For her 11th birthday, Moore launched Em’s Donation Projects, filling 100 purses with donated hygiene products valued at more than $7,000 and distributing them to women experiencing homelessness. For her 12th birthday, she led the Em’s Bedtime Bundles project, collecting blankets, stuffed animals, toothbrushes and books for children in shelters or foster care. In 2018 for her 13th birthday, Moore launched the Hunger Sucks Campaign, with the goal of raising $600 for local non-profits that provide food to those in need. By engaging her former elementary school and using GoFundMe, she raised $2,055 benefitting three organizations: her school’s Fuel Program, the Wheatland Food Bank and the Wheatland Crisis Society. Upon learning the Veteran’s Food Bank was in need of donations, Moore initiated a new Em’s Donation Project, and within a week, collected 500 pounds of food. In addition to her fundraising efforts, Emma has volunteered for the Alberta 55+ Games, the City of Calgary’s Park and Play program, the Seniors Secret Service Christmas Cheer Program, the Christmas Hamper Society and the Crowther Memorial Junior High School Student Council.
Recipients of 2019 Stars of Alberta awards will be celebrated at a ceremony on Dec. 5, International Volunteer Day. Since the inception of the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards in 2000, 121 volunteers from across the province have been recognized.
Visit alberta.ca/stars-alberta-volunteer-awards.aspx for more information or to nominate someone. The deadline for nominations is Sept. 20.