Winners of the Citizen of the Year were announced by the Maple Ridge Community Foundation.
The foundation’s annual gala took place Saturday, April 25, at Meadow Gardens Golf Club, which also celebrated the foundation’s 50th anniversary with a “50 Golden Groove” theme.
This year the Youth Achievement Award went to Brooklyn Nicholson; the Teesha Sharma Memorial Award went to Ellie Ollenberger; and the Lifetime Achievement Award to Angie Rowell.
Rowell said online that it was a night she will never forget.
“I was honoured to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Maple Ridge Community Foundation’s Citizen of the Year Gala, but this isn’t mine alone,” Rowell wrote in an online post.
“Sandra, Adrienne, and all the nominees, you inspire me. And to the younger nominees, our future is in very good hands. This belongs to those who came before us, everyone carrying it forward today, and the next generation to come,” said Rowell noting she was grateful to share the moment with her mother Debbie and her sister Stacy.
The Maple Ridge Community Foundation was formed in 1976 following the generous donation of property to the people of Maple Ridge by Alfred Reiboldt.
With a mandate to steward and develop the property as a public park, there was a larger vision – to build a lasting philanthropic organization to support local needs for generations to come.
The foundation has been celebrating outstanding individuals who make the city stronger, kinder, and more connected since 1991.
And, the Citizen of the Year Awards recognize those local individuals whose volunteer efforts—whether through leadership, advocacy, mentorship, or quiet acts of generosity—uplift the lives of others and enhance the spirit and image of Maple Ridge.
Originally awarded to one exceptional volunteer each year, the program expanded in 2018 to honour three remarkable individuals annually.
“Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Citizen of the Year Awards last night. It was an unforgettable evening celebrating the incredible people who make our community stronger,” said the foundation online, also thanking the board, staff, volunteers, and the many sponsors, partners and donors who made the event possible.
“We’re truly grateful for your support.”
For more information go to: https://mrcf.ca/.