Prince George, B.C. – Virginia Russell of Prince George is among 36 British Columbians to be named a recipient of a B.C. Community Achievement Award.

 

"The community achievement awards honour individuals who have made a significant contribution either as a volunteer or in the course of their work," said Keith Mitchell, chair of the British Columbia Achievement Foundation. "Today’s recipients contribute in many areas – health, education, multiculturalism, arts and culture, environment, philanthropy, and youth or seniors’ leadership, among others."

 

Russell is being recognized for her dedication to social justice, social justice, indigenous health and women’s issues. A role model for young women in northern and rural BC, Virginia has contributed to organizations such as the Prince George Hospice Society, the Prince George New Hope Society and the BC Cancer Agency’s LACE Cervical screening campaign.

 

 

Other recipients from the region are:

 

David Dickson, of Williams Lake: As Safer Communities Coordinator working with the Williams Lake RCMP, David has initiated and expanded programs that have positively contributed to the reduction in crime in the area. As well, David is the director of the Williams Lake Emergency Support Services Team and serves as a Governor on the Board of Thompson Rivers University.

 

Trevis (Wes) Sissons, Quesnel: A key member of the family at Riverview Elementary, an inner city school in Quesnel. From fundraising for computers and smartboards to organizing and cooking lunches to driving for field trips, Riverview Elementary benefits every day and in many ways from Wes’ strong commitment to every student’s learning experience.

 

Glen Saunders, Prince Rupert: This business leader is being recognized for his efforts to initiate and support projects that enhance his community. Glen’s strength is his enthusiasm for the future of Prince Rupert. Among his many achievements, Glen led a unique initiative that resulted in a ‘painting makeover’ of buildings in the downtown core and Cow Bay waterfront.

 

 

The recipients of the 2012 British Columbia Community Achievement Awards will be recognized in a formal presentation at Government House in Victoria on April 25, 2012. Each will receive a certificate and a medallion designed by B.C. artist Robert Davidson.