Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year Named

Dianne Greenwood, who has spent more than two decades ensuring Quesnel's Good Cheer campaign is a success, was named the 2010 Volunteer Citizen of the Year at a banquet Tuesday evening to laud Quesnel's community of exceptional volunteers.

Greenwood has spent a remarkable amount of time over the past 24 years to help less fortunate people and families enjoy the Christmas season. For 20 of those years, she's been the co-ordinator of the program, staffing the drop-off centre, doing community awareness work and distributing Christmas hampers to people in need. Greenwood credits the community for its giving spirit.

Liz Miller, Sheri Coles and Wes Sissons, the other nominees for 2010, were also applauded for their contributions by the more than 100 people in attendance. In addition, Janice Butler, Cathy Heinzelman and Bev Pontius were awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for all the work they've done to build and support a vibrant arts and theatre culture in the community, including the ever-popular Youth Entertaining for Service and Kersley Musical Theatre productions.

"These are all outstanding community ambassadors. Dianne's work with Good Cheer is so valuable to our community, and Janice, Cathy and Bev's spirit and giving nature have brightened many a concert," said Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom. "On behalf of City Council, I am honoured to congratulate all our nominees this year - we are thankful for the effort you put forth towards making our community a better place."

"Volunteerism is an engine that drives our community," added Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year Committee Chair and City Councillor Ron Paull. "Recognizing, rewarding and celebrating our volunteers bring out the best in us. I thank this year's award recipients, the nominees, nominators and, most importantly, all our volunteers in Quesnel."

A bonus to the evening was a silent auction of the flowered centerpieces provided by event sponsor Blumko Flower Art and owner Kobus Westraadt. The auction raised more than $580 for the Shiraoi-Sendai Relief Fund.

The Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year program is a joint venture of the City of Quesnel and the Quesnel Cariboo Observer. A committee of past citizens of the year judges the nomination packages and administers the event.