It’s the last call for nominations for the inaugural Extraordinary Senior Award.
Nominations are being sought for seniors who go above and beyond to help others living in their community.
“We are proud to be partnering with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and Retirement Concepts on this award that celebrates seniors,” Pacific National Exhibition president and CEO Shelley Frost said.
Retirement Concepts chief operating officer Jennie Deneka noted that older volunteers make up the fabric of many communities.
“Many of them also mentor others or volunteer for community groups that wouldn’t otherwise be in operation if it were not for their important contributions,” she said.
According to Statistics Canada, there are more than 12 million active volunteers located across Canada, with people aged 65 to 74 contributing the highest average of volunteer hours annually.
The Alzheimer Society of B.C. relies on the efforts of older volunteers to help the estimated 70,000 British Columbians living with dementia.
“The critical support we provide for British Columbians affected by dementia is made possible by incredible community leaders, including 750 volunteers in programs and services, events and advocacy. Many of them seniors,” explained Alzheimer Society of B.C. CEO Maria Howard.
“Our ability to help people living with the disease, and to build a more caring and inclusive province for all British Columbians, depends entirely on the talent and generosity of extraordinary seniors. They deserve to be celebrated in every way possible,” she added.
In British Columbia, the number of residents aged 65 and over comprises 13.6 per cent of the province’s population.
The recipient of the award will receive it on Senior’s Day at the Fair at the PNE on Aug. 23.
In addition to the award they will also receive a prize package including a restaurant gift certificate, admission for four for a VIP day at The Fair at the PNE and a one-night stay at the Listel Hotel Vancouver.
Nominees must be over the age of 65 and residents of B.C.
Submissions of 1,000 words or less are required on before July 31.
• Nominations can be made at exraordinarysenior.com.