Stars of Alberta Recipients - 2006
YOUTH CATEGORY
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JENNA HABIB (CALGARY)Nominated by Azmin Habib, Father Jenna Habib is an extraordinary young lady who has numerous accomplishments in athletics, academics, leadership and volunteering. She has a mind set to excel at everything she does. Jenna's volunteer history began at the early age of 3 years old and her passion for volunteering has grown from there to encompass many nonprofit/voluntary sector organizations. Jenna has raised funds for cancer research, the Terry Fox run, UNICEF days, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the AgaKhan Foundation and numerous others. Jenna's major volunteering contribution has been to the Food Bank and distributing food hampers to underprivileged people. She also spends a great deal of time serving food to those in need at the Mustard Seed Ministry. An accomplished athlete herself, she passes on her athletic abilities by coaching at various sports organizations: SAIT basketball camps, Dynastars Hockey Camps, the Starter Stix Field Hockey just to name a few. |
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CHASE MCMURREN (LETHBRIDGE)Nominated by Laurie Ruff, Volunteer Lethbridge Caring for others and donating time to help and aid those around him has been a key in all of Chase's volunteer work. Currently a student at the University of Lethbridge, Chase volunteers at numerous organizations, such as: Alberta Youth Volunteers, Volunteer Lethbridge, University of Lethbridge Rotaract Club, University of Lethbridge Education Undergraduate Society and many others. Chase was instrumental in creating the YMCA StrYvers Youth Leadership Program which serves to provide opportunities for youth to become better leaders in their community. Chase has led and directed more than 50 campaigns and initiatives since middle school, including anti-smoking initiatives, AIDS Awareness campaigns, benefit concerts and many others. Chase shares his talent and gift of music by performing for the patients, visitors and staff at the Lethbridge Regional Hospital and BRIDGES Geriatrics Rehabilitation program. |
ADULT CATEGORY
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PAULETTE PATTERSON (GRANDE PRAIRIE)Nominated by Walter Paszkowski, Community Member Paulette is a compassionate volunteer who, through the years, has continuously demonstrated a strong commitment to those less fortunate thus improving the community in which she lives. She has volunteered thousands of hours to help the youth of the region, assist the aged, and organize fundraisers for the needy. Paulette was a founding member of numerous organizations such as: Grande Prairie Victim's Assistance, John Howard Society, Swan City Bingo Association and the Aspen Ridge Community Association. Paulette also is an active member in the political arena volunteering her leadership skills as the President of constituency political associations and has chaired four election campaigns for successful legislature candidates. |
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MARION REX (EDMONTON)Nominated by Mae Hadley, Girl Guides of Canada-Edmonton Area. Marion is the epitome of volunteerism, giving unselfishly and willingly, so that others may benefit. Last year alone, Marion volunteered 1963 hours at such community organizations as Girls Guides of Canada, Educational Technology Council, Alberta Genealogical Society, First Lego League, TELUS World Science Centre and many others. Being an Area Commissionaire for Edmonton Girl Guides, Marion is involved in every aspect of Guiding and is very passionate about it. From governance, volunteer screening and risk management to providing training in music, dance and campfire programs, Marion does it all. Marion's other passion is genealogy. For the past ten years she has volunteered with the Alberta Genealogical Society and is now serving as President of the Edmonton Branch. As President of the Educational Technology Council, Marion works with other members to promote the use of technology. |
SENIOR CATEGORY
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BILL DIACHUK (SHERWOOD PARK)Nominated by Ivanna Szewczuk, Ukrainian Canadian Social Services Bill has an ability to recognize a need and has a commitment to getting things done which has led to a lifetime of volunteer activities. He currently devotes his time to various community organizations throughout the Edmonton region, but also takes part in planning and implementing community development overseas (Brazil, Bosnia, Ukraine). As President of the Ukrainian Canadian Social Services, he volunteers most of his time helping new immigrants to establish their life in Canada. Thanks to his efforts and tireless work the agency was able to help over a hundred families from the war torn Bosnia to successfully move and settle in Edmonton. Mr. Diachuk also serves as a president of the Bishop Budka Charitable Society and is a chief organizer of fundraising events for projects overseas. Bill is a founding member and a devoted volunteer of the Knights of Columbus Father Dydyk and Father Hannas Councils and Bishop Demetrius M. Greschuk Assembly. |
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ELSIE YANIK (FORT MCMURRAY)Nominated by Christine Simpson, Regional Aboriginal Recognitions Award Committee Elsie Yanik is respected throughout the region for her advocacy and contributions to a wide range of enhancement initiatives, from improving health, education and recreational services to sharing and preserving Aboriginal heritage, culture and crafting. Elsie's spirit and unwavering support has been a pillar to the students in Aboriginal Education at Keyano College. She has been a mentor in a support group for students since 1997. She also lends her support to the Aboriginal programs and has often been called upon to bless special ceremonies and functions such as Aboriginal Days, Arctic Winter Games 2004 and many others. Mrs. Yanik is a cherished Elder in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo community. Elsie was the first woman to be appointed as Spiritual Director of Northern Alberta/NWT. She was recognized for Lifetime Achievement with the Governor General's Commemorative Medal on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of Confederation. She also received the St. Joseph Catholic Church Extension Society Award, given annually to only one person in Canada for contributions to church and community. |
