In small communities it’s volunteers who offer their time and energy that can make the difference between dull and vibrant, active communities.
Nelson is no exception and when it comes to volunteers, there seems to be a high number of them dedicated to serving others.
To recognize just a few of these people, Sport BC held its Community Sport Hero Awards in Nelson Wednesday night.
The first Sport Hero awards in Nelson since 2005, 10 sport volunteers were recognized for dedication and leadership in their respective activities.
“We brought it on because we believe that sport volunteers don’t get any recognition,” said Carey Summerfelt, event manager for Sport BC.
“We know it’s a struggle sometimes and in small communities there’s often a few volunteers that do everything. It’s a way of saying thank you.”
Sport BC has been monitoring volunteer efforts in communities throughout the province through KidSport chapters and sport councils.
Recipients of the Sport Hero award in Nelson are Laura Torrans, Sofeya Devji, Mari Plamondon, Dean Siminoff, Bill McDonnell, Pat Wray, Liz Saunders, Bill Harbord, Jane MacLeod and Mary Walters.
Siminoff, who has been active in promoting and teaching taekwondo in the area, said volunteers give up their time and effort just for the sake of helping people.
“We do it because we love people,” said Siminoff.
“Taekwondo is just a vehicle to do that and I know it’s the same for all the rest of the volunteers and why they do what they do.”
