As old age approaches, seniors and elders seem to fade into the background. And yet it is their extraordinary volunteerism that makes communities strong, vibrant and welcoming through many of their civic contributions.
The City of St. Albert has recognized their tireless dedication through the inaugural Seniors and Elders Service Awards taking place Friday, June 6 at Red Willow Place.
“We want to recognize everyday seniors putting in extra services to the community. We have a couple of other recognition awards with higher standards, but we wanted to recognize seniors who are more than good neighbours and contribute to better the lives of people living in the community,” said Tricia Boonstra, community development coordinator.
The Seniors Advisory Committee received 11 nominations, and after a thorough assessment, every nominee will receive an award.
“Although the motion to develop this award came from council, I believe it’s important because a lot of volunteers are seniors, and they deserve recognition. By highlighting their volunteerism, it's a way to encourage younger generations to volunteer,” Boonstra said.
When contacted, many of the seniors and elders were unaware that their family, friends, neighbours and service organizations had nominated them.
“Many were shocked and surprised and didn’t feel the need for recognition.”
The Friday celebration will be a casual pub night where guests can order food. Recipients and their invited guests are slated to arrive at 5:30 p.m. Mayor Cathy Heron will make a proclamation for Seniors Week at 6:30 p.m. The winners will then be introduced and called to the stage to receive a stamped and signed certificate. Both St. Albert Latin Cultural Association and a Caribbean steel pan drummer are the evening’s featured entertainment.
The 2025 Award Winners are:
• Barb Riley – A dedicated volunteer since 2021, Riley is part of the St. Albert Further Education Association’s Newcomer Program. She supported Ukrainian newcomers and currently leads a speaking circle at St. Albert Seniors Activity and Resource Community Centre.
• Bill Clarke – As a retired NAIT database instructor and volunteer, Clarke assisted St. Albert Seniors Association by solving long-standing technical issues. For more than 18 months, he connected American software developers with Canadian banks and created a solution now used by senior centres across the country.
• Darrell and Susan McBain – This couple is a prime example of many volunteers who work quietly and humbly behind the scenes. For more than 30 years, the McBains have volunteered at many organizations and events included International Children’s Festival of the Arts, Festival of Trees and LoSeCa.
• Diane Properzi – Currently a retired schoolteacher, Properzi started volunteering at Sturgeon Community Hospital Adult Day Program in 2020. Her uplifting presence brings a strong sense of community as she helps create meaningful recreational experiences.
• Donne Wulf – As chair of ElderCare Edmonton, a longtime Rotarian and former board chair of Sturgeon Community Hospital Foundation, she supports seniors and the broader community through compassion, service and community spirit.
• Edith Ritz – As a decade longtime volunteer at Sturgeon Community Hospital Adult Day Program, Ritz commits to working six hours each week. She provides patients with steady support through her knowledge of the program and gentle personality.
• Marilyn McGreer – A long-time cornerstone of St. Albert, McGreer dedicates her time to supporting Afro-Caribbean culture and promoting diversity. For more than five years, she has volunteered at St. Albert Seniors Activity and Resource Centre, the Africans & African Descendants Friendship Club and Musée Héritage Museum.
• Marion McBride – For more than 21 years, McBride has volunteered at Sturgeon Community Hospital Adult Day Program. Known for her humour, reliability and strong work ethic, she makes big impacts through small acts of kindness.
• Mike Howes – Known as a long-time community builder, Howes is on the St. Albert Seniors Association board helping modernize business practices, improve facilities and boost community visibility. He is also the driving force uniting city service clubs to collaborate on different projects.
• Rachel Seal – A dedicated volunteer at Sturgeon Community Hospital since April 2008, Seal brings a joyful energy to the adult day program. Her commitment to wellness and her vibrant spirit make her an essential and cherished part of the team.
