MOOSE JAW — As National Volunteer Week shone a spotlight on the selfless contributions of individuals across the province, the Government of Saskatchewan has announced that nominations are now open for the 2025 Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal (SVM).
Residents have until Oct. 31 to nominate outstanding volunteers whose efforts have made a significant impact in their communities.
Established in 1995 during Saskatchewan’s 90th anniversary, the SVM recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exemplary volunteer service, enriched the lives of others, and strengthened the social fabric of the province. Recipients are honoured with a silver medal bearing the provincial shield of arms and the motto “Nos ipsos dedimus” — “We gave of ourselves” — along with a certificate and the right to use the post-nominal letters S.V.M.
Saskatchewan boasts the highest rate of volunteerism in Canada, according to the provincial government, serving as a testament to the province’s culture of community engagement. In Moose Jaw, this spirit is evident through the tireless work of volunteers who support various local organizations and initiatives.
For instance, the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank relies heavily on volunteers for its daily operations. Long-time volunteer Sonia Smith, who has helped Moose Jaw’s food bank since 1998, shared: “It keeps me going, and (it has) been a wonderful time in my life; I wouldn’t trade it for anything” in a January 2023 interview.
Similarly, the Moose Jaw and District Senior Citizens Association (MJDSCA) has held numerous banquets to honour its dedicated volunteers. In February 2020, then-president Vicki Wadsworth acknowledged, “It’s hard to keep a club like this going without the volunteers because we could not possibly afford to pay people to come in and help us.”
The Meals on Wheels program in Moose Jaw also benefits from the commitment of volunteers who deliver meals to homebound clients, with volunteer service officials noting that — more than just a service — it’s also about providing companionship and ensuring the well-being of clients.
In 2024, Moose Jaw residents Creighton (Wayne) Cameron and Lyle Johnson were among the recipients of the SVM. Cameron was recognized for his leadership roles in organizations such as RuBarb Productions and Toastmasters, while Johnson was honoured for his contributions to education, community service, and the arts.
To nominate someone for the 2025 SVM, individuals must complete a nomination form and provide three to six letters of support detailing the nominee’s volunteer contributions. Nominees must be current or former long-term residents of Saskatchewan and Canadian citizens. Posthumous nominations, organizations, and individuals holding certain public offices are not eligible.
Nominations can be submitted by email, mail, courier, or in person to the Saskatchewan Honours and Awards Program at the Protocol Office in Regina.
For more information, visit Saskatchewan.ca, email [email protected], or call 1-877-427-5505 toll-free. The Protocol Office is located at 300–3085 Albert Street in Regina.
