The City of Pitt Meadows has announced its sixth annual Community Service Awards winners.
“Pitt Meadows is home to so many innovative and inspiring people,” said Mayor Nicole MacDonald. “We are proud to honour these individuals who go the extra mile in their commitment to the well-being of our community.”
The Pitt Meadows Combat Club wins the Business of the Year Award, which recognizes a business that contributes to the overall quality of life in the city through community service endeavours.
The combat club is recognized for its positive impact on health, fitness and community spirit. Represented by Cheryl Martin and Connor Gallagher, it offers programs for all ages that encourage confidence, self-esteem and a stronger sense of community, said the city announcement. The gym offers an after-school pickup program for working parents, and safe, engaging after-school care for children through their Heron Athletics Program.
Their support and sponsorship of local mixed martial arts athletes who compete professionally fosters athletic excellence and community pride. The club is involved in many community events, including Pitt Meadows Day and collecting food bank donations.
Krista Marion receives the Community Service Award, which recognizes exemplary leadership and outstanding community service without regard for personal gain.
Through her Ridge Meadows 55+ Facebook group, Marion organizes weekly events for over 1,000 members, helping sustain a supportive, active and connected community, while supporting local small businesses. She organizes fundraising events for local Parent Advisory Committees, as well as the Meadow Ridge Female Minor Hockey Association.
Clarissa Moody receives the Community Service Youth Award, which recognizes the positive contributions of youth under 25, who have provided outstanding service to the community without regard for personal gain.
Moody, 15, was recognized for her dedication to fostering cultural pride and unity among Katzie First Nation youth. She established Coastal Jams, a gathering for young people to come together to drum, sing and dance, creating a space for cultural connection and expression for Katzie.
Her efforts have inspired many youth to celebrate their heritage, participate in traditional practices and take pride in their unique identity within the community. Clarissa has shared her gifts by performing at the BC Summer Games, Pitt Meadows Day, the PNE and the opening of new exhibitions at the Pitt Meadows Art Gallery. Her role as a cultural ambassador extends beyond performances; she spent her summer mentoring children, organizing crafts and supporting the first Katzie Pride event.
Tristan Kennedy also receives the Community Service Youth Award, for being an active volunteer and dedicated member of the community at only nine years old. He is a member of the Lower Mainland Green Team, and helps with tasks like invasive plant removal, shrub pruning and native tree planting.
Beyond his environmental work, Tristan works as a newspaper delivery boy and donates half his earnings to charity each year. He is also an enthusiastic member of the First Pitt Meadows Cub Scouts, and serves on the leadership council.
Colin McIntyre wins the Good Neighbour Award, for through acts of kindness.
Whether he is greeting every passerby with a smile and a chat, assisting mobility-impaired neighbours with groceries, or driving a neighbour to the vet, he always goes above and beyond, said the city announcement. He takes pride in maintaining not only his own lawn, but also those of his neighbours, and he clears snow without being asked. From taking out recycling bins for others to organizing neighbourhood tool swaps, his acts of service make everyone feel supported and connected.
J.C. Coates wins the The Spirit of Pitt Meadows Award, which recognizes the contributions of an individual for their outstanding community service, dedication and commitment to improving the quality of life for citizens.
Coates has coached multiple soccer teams for over 15 years, and is known for his encouragement and positive spirit on the field five nights a week. His impact on young athletes is evident, and he has built skills and confidence in players of all ages by introducing provincial-level training for young soccer athletes in Pitt Meadows, while fostering a strong and supportive community around the sport.
“We congratulate this year’s winners of the Community Service Awards and thank them for their meaningful contributions to our community,” said city CAO Mark Roberts. “We are also grateful to the many people who nominated individuals and businesses in our City for these important awards.”
The recipients will be acknowledged at the Jan. 28, council meeting, and presented with their awards at a private event in 2025.
