REGINA - Officials gathered at Government House on August 26 to celebrate a selection of dedicated community volunteers from across the province, with the presentation of the prestigious 2020 Volunteer Service Medals. Lieutenant-Governor Russ Mirasty presented the medals to 10 recipients present at the ceremony, as Bernice Woolhouse of Assiniboia was unable to attend.
“The remarkable volunteers that we honoured today are strong leaders, each with their own leadership style,” said Mirasty. “And what they share in common is a desire to lend that hand, to help where help is needed. A simple concept, with powerful results.”
The Volunteer Service Medal is awarded annually, to nominated recipients chosen by a provincial panel, for their outstanding contributions to Saskatchewan through volunteer work. “It is deeply gratifying for me to pay tribute to those who give back to our communities and improve the lives of others,” said Mirasty.
For medal recipient Lorraine Silzer, of Assiniboia, being recognized for her extensive volunteer work with the Assiniboia and District Historical Museum is an honour. She has served as a weekly volunteer for more than 25 years.
“I enjoy it. It’s an interesting education, and very nice and fun,” said Silzer, of the experience. “[The community] has been very generous in bringing stuff in to the museum, antiques and so on.”
Bernice Woolhouse, Assiniboia, is a devoted volunteer with the Assiniboia and District Historical Museum for several decades, and played a key role in planning the museum’s current facility. She was not present at the ceremony, and will be presented her medal at a later date.