Lillian Smith of Sturgis and 33 other individuals and groups from across the Yorkton-Melville constituency were presented with the volunteer award medal by Cathay Wagantall, MP, on October 22.
The ceremony was held before an audience of approximately 150 people at the Heritage Baptist Church in Yorkton, as a tribute to Canada’s 150th birthday.
The following citation was on the medal presented to Smith:
“Lillian Smith—Sturgis, Community Leader Smith volunteers extensively with many local organizations, but she was nominated for her outstanding dedication to the Sturgis Bingo committee. Lillian’s involvement includes being the first to arrive and the last to leave each Bingo night. Among other tasks, she organizes and calls the volunteers and often brings a cake.”
Smith was surprised to be nominated, and very appreciative of the award.
“I have enjoyed volunteering with various local groups and organizations including the church, bingo, 4-H, figure skating and community hall fundraising, and I have met a lot of great people. After 10 years of doing bingo, the people there are almost like family.”
She was quick to point out that there are many valuable volunteers in the region who have yet to receive recognition for their work.
The medal recipients, both individuals and groups, were nominated by their peers and communities for the work they do as community builders through volunteering, said MP Wagantall.
“I am so proud of all those in my riding who have contributed to Saskatchewan’s high rate of volunteer work. Earlier this summer, I asked residents from Yorkton-Melville to put forward the names of those in their communities who give their time and talents for the betterment of everyone, and the response was incredible.”
Wagantall said she was very impressed with the quality of the list of nominees for the award.
“As I reviewed each nominee, I realized that each recipient seems to have, on purpose, removed him or herself from any podium of self-promotion, and just gotten on with what needs doing.
“From cooking, sewing or gardening to reading to a child or teaching music or assisting in building community in Africa – all profoundly noteworthy. Without fanfare or hope of recognition, these medal-winners have used and are still using the gifts and abilities God gave them to serve others. They got to work. They contributed. And they kept working and contributing when others stopped.”
Recipients of the special Canada 150 medal were recognized as community leaders, not-for-profit leaders, business leaders and youth leaders, and were from 15 different communities.
Wagantall hopes others will be inspired and follow in the example of the award winners.
“The responsibility to build community belongs to all of us, no matter the size of your community – a seniors group, a church, a town or village or city. Only in this way can we keep Canada the glorious and free nation it is.
“To the recipients, I am so honoured by your presence, and inspired by your lives. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to meet you and pass on not only my personal thanks but also my thanks as your Member of Parliament.”
