Seeking nominations for Seniors Service Awards

By Submitted Article on July 29, 2020.

Josephine Pon

ALBERTA MINISTER OF SENIORS

AND HOUSING

I am proud to know so many Albertans are stepping up to support seniors, especially in this challenging time.

I think about this every time I read one of the nominations for the 2020 Minister’s Seniors Service Awards.

The pandemic has changed how we live our daily lives and deeply affected many seniors. But, just like they’ve always been, Albertans are there – checking in on an isolated senior, dropping off groceries or mowing the lawn for the neighbour down the block. Nonprofit organizations and businesses have devised innovative ways to support seniors, like Zoom classes and special store hours.

The service award nominations tell amazing stories about extraordinary Albertans, nonprofit organizations, and businesses. Let me tell you about one group.

A few intrepid members of the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association Arts and Crafts program retrieved their sewing kits, threaded needles and got to work to provide PPE for front-line workers and volunteers who interact with vulnerable Albertans. Volunteers within the program were productive indeed, stitching together more than 1,000 masks. It required about 2,200 volunteer hours, and 15 agencies received masks.

I can picture these volunteers sitting at home, methodically going about their work and regularly adding a brand-new mask to a growing pile beside them.

I am so grateful for the skill and effort behind this project. It has made a difference. I am most impressed with the determination to pitch in and help others.

I am pleased someone nominated this group for a 2020 Minister’s Seniors Service Award.

It is important to recognize Albertans like these who are investing their time, energy, and skills to help others. Some have been doing it for years, while others have stepped up because they know the need is even greater in the pandemic. They all deserve our thanks.

The 2020 awards feature new categories and sub-categories to recognize those who have exemplified leadership and compassion to serve Alberta seniors during this difficult time. We are accepting nominations for individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations who have served seniors through their extraordinary work in volunteerism, philanthropy, innovation or outstanding service.

We also encourage nominations for Albertans who have provided their valuable services to seniors throughout the year.

Please consider the thoughtful and important services that have been provided in your community to support Alberta seniors, and nominate a person, organization or business.

There is still time. The nomination deadline is Aug. 11.

Nomination forms are available at alberta.ca/mssa.

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