With National Volunteer Week approaching, Whitecourt has opened up nominations for its 2026 Volunteer Awards Program.
Running April 19-25, National Volunteer Week is a time to recognize the time and energy volunteers contribute to the community. This year’s theme is “Ignite Volunteerism,” a year-long initiative encouraging Canadians to reconnect with their communities through acts of service, civic action and mutual support.
The Town of Whitecourt holds an awards program annually to recognize the occasion and the local volunteers who build up the community.
Whitecourt residents are invited to nominate individuals, corporations and agencies or groups in the five volunteer categories:
- Community Leader: Outstanding individual volunteers, or groups of volunteers, who have taken a lead role in developing solutions to social challenges in Whitecourt.
- Longstanding Achievement: Individuals who have volunteered for at least 25 years and have inspired other volunteers, led volunteer groups, or made other exceptional achievements through volunteering.
- Corporate Leader: Companies that demonstrate social responsibility in their workplace practices, including promoting and facilitating volunteerism locally, regionally, and nationally, as well as for-profit or not-for-profit social enterprises dedicated to creating social, cultural, or environmental benefits.
- The Extra Miler: Volunteers who go the extra mile for the cause, whether they stay late to help or work the extra shift when needed. This individual goes above and beyond the volunteer position.
- Outstanding Youth Volunteer: Youth between the ages of 13 and 20 who have demonstrated leadership and helped to build a stronger community.
Nominations close on April 7 at noon, and the form is available online.
Winners will be announced at the Volunteer Celebration Lunch on April 20, to which all nominees will be invited. Winners will receive their award and a prize pack.
Volunteer organizations will be invited to the event, and with limited seating available, an RSVP is required.
As part of the town’s celebration, keynote speaker Carole Anne Devaney will also speak to Grade 9 students at both high schools on April 20. Devaney will speak on the importance of volunteering and its benefits to both youth and the community.
During the lunch hour, she will present at the Volunteer Celebration Lunch as well.
