Here are the award winners from the Barrhead community's annual volunteer celebration event April 17 at the Bethel Pentecostal Church.
Make a Difference Award - Friends of the Barrhead Public Library
The Barrhead and District Public Library created the Make a Difference Award to recognize groups and organizations whose volunteers make a difference in the community.
Library director Elaine Dickie, who presented the award, noted this year's winner joins an illustrious group of organizations that have helped the community become what it is, including the Barrhead Seniors Versatile, the Lions Club, Barrhead Rotary Music Festival, Barrhead and District Chamber of Commerce, the Barrhead Agricultural Society, Barrhead 4-H Council, Barrhead Girl Guides, the 526-Barrhead Air Cadet Squadron, the Barrhead Elks, 55+ Summer Games Committee, Barrhead Royal Canadian Legion, among others.
Youth Award Winner - Brielle Airey
The award is presented to a young person, 24 years old or younger, who demonstrates the best qualities of the community's youth through volunteering. Other nominees included Charlie L'Heureuz, William Bain, Jemiah Sarmiento, and Zayda Lucas.
Barrhead Composite High School (BCHS) principal Slade Sekulich said that over her career at BCHS, Airey has volunteered for and often spearheaded several projects, including the school's anti-bullying campaign, annual food bank drive, and, most recently, a video game marathon fundraiser for STARS Air Ambulance.
"One of her best attributes is that she encourages others to volunteer, not only from the student body but also from the community," he said.
Long Service Volunteer Award - Leonard Hein
The award is given to individuals with a long history of volunteerism and community service. Other nominees included Anna Churchill, Steven Bala, Stuart Baker, and Matt Nanninga.
Barrhead and District Family Community Services (FCSS) executive director Karen Gariepy said that Hein has a long history of volunteering going back more than 30 years with many different organizations, including the St. Anne Parish, Knights of Columbus, the community Pumpkin Walk, seniors floor curling, the Barrhead Community Victim Services Unit, Barrhead Agricultural Society and the food bank.
"You can't ask for a more dedicated, reliable, committed, kind, and positive individual," she said, noting she got to know Hein through the food bank, where he volunteers weekly. "We can't thank you enough for all you do for us and this community."
Herman's Heroes Award - Anna Swan
The Herman's Heroes Award, sponsored by the Barrhead Royal Canadian Legion and named after Korean War veteran, long-time Legion member, and volunteer Herman Barkemeyer, is a recent addition to Barrhead's awards, being awarded to the award's namesake in 2018. One of the unique features of this award is that the previous winner chooses their successor.
"Anna has become a vital part of the community," Rau said, adding Swan. She has been part of the Agricultural Services Board since 1993, a Barrhead Royal Canadian Legion member and a volunteer for over 25 years. She also volunteers with FCSS and the Barrhead Agricultural Society," she said. "Anna exemplifies the impact one can have on enriching the community."
Rosemary Empey Award - Fred Thistle
The award, established in 1992 in remembrance of Rosemary Empey, a volunteer who dedicated countless hours to the community, is presented to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedication to the community. Robin Berard and Rose Cooper were also nominees for the award.
Barrhead Swim Club head coach Kylee Meunier said Thistle has been instrumental in guiding generations of swimmers, noting he was part of the club when she was a new swimmer more than 20 years ago and is responsible for training at least half of the aquatic centre lifeguards."
"He is caring and compassionate while being firm. He also has an uncanny ability to get six-and seven-year-olds to listen to him."
