Ron Antalek of Maple Ridge received a 2012 B.C. Community Achievement Award on Thursday.
It was presented to him and 25 others by B.C. Lieutenant Governor Steven L. Point and Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Ida Chong at Government House in Victoria.
Antalek, a local realtor, was honoured for his generosity and genuine compassion, according to the British Columbia Achievement Foundation.
“Volunteer, philanthropist, hospital board vice-chair and initiator of many acts of kindness, Mr. Antalek is an example to all citizens. His major donation to Ridge Meadows Hospital and willingness to have the funding directed to mental health – an area of great need – was an inspired gift. The resulting expanded psychiatric unit has reduced the pressure on the emergency department and allowed the timely treatment of mental health patients.
“His gift was also a visible incentive to other potential donors. Mr. Antalek is one of those rare individuals whose big heart, positive spirit and enthusiasm touch his entire community.”