Moose Jaw is arguably the most volunteer-rich community in Saskatchewan. There are so many individuals and organizations in Moose Jaw that inspire and encourage us to contribute to our community in a variety of ways. The PRISM Award nominees, and the Citizen and Group of the Year nominees show us Moose Jaw’s best examples of dedication and generosity.
The Citizen and Group of the Year Awards were presented at a luncheon last week with almost 20 citizens and groups being recognized. Congratulations to all including this year’s winners – Krystal Chow (Citizen of the Year) and Moose Jaw Families for Change Inc (Group of the Year). Thank you to all of the nominees and all volunteers for your invaluable contributions to the people of our city.
We can easily find over 100 organizations in Moose Jaw whose purpose is to make our city a better place. Volunteer groups serve youth, seniors, newcomers and those with health challenges or special needs. Faith-based community organizations respond to those in need in many ways. Cultural, art, recreation and sport opportunities contribute in a huge way to health and well-being. We have these opportunities because of generous individuals and volunteer groups.
The work of our local Kinsmen Club is very evident this time of year. They just hosted another successful Sports Celebrity Dinner with funds going to their many worthwhile local projects, one of which is the Kinsmen Inclusion Centre. Kinsmen Club members from Moose Jaw will also be involved in Telemiracle 44 on March 7th and 8th. Of special note is that Thursday, February 20, 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of Kin-Canada. To mark the milestone, there will be a special flag raising at the legislature that day, which I am planning to attend.
Moose Jaw’s sports organizations, from minor sports to the Warriors, wouldn’t exist without volunteers. The results of the efforts of the Moose Jaw Warriors organization and three former players will be showcased at the annual Conexus Warriors and Legends Hall of Fame banquet this Friday.
The Saskatchewan Government recognizes that volunteers and community organizations contribute immensely to our Saskatchewan quality of life, and to meeting the needs of those facing challenges. The Premier’s Service Club Award is given annually to as many as four service clubs in the province to recognize their commitment and service. The Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal recognizes volunteers who reach outside their personal activities to help others and make daily life in our province better for everyone.
The Community Initiatives Fund is a special purpose fund created under The Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation Act, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Saskatchewan people and investing in communities throughout the province.
These grants support community programs and projects that focus on one of the following themes:
- Healthy growth and development of children and youth;
- Individual, family and community well-being;
- Non-profit and community leadership.
From the Fall 2019 applications, 137 grants totalling over two million dollars were approved. Five organizations in the Moose Jaw area received funding adding up to $86,100.
The value of volunteering was emphasized in many ways at the Citizen and Group of the Year Awards. Our province will continue to grow in kindness, compassion and generosity with dedicated individuals and groups like those recognized.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
