For the third year, the Leisure Care Lighthouse Awards once again paid tribute to four outstanding seniors who have made a difference in their communities through volunteer service or by serving as an inspiration and role model for others. The awards were given out to a Canadian of Japanese descent, a fitness instructor, a Franciscan nun and a prominent member of the Lower Mainland’s East Indian community at a September 28 luncheon at The O’Keefe Retirement Community.
| David Podmore, President & CEO of Concert Properties and Dan Madsen, President of Leisure Care with recipients, nominees and guests at the Lighthouse Awards. | |
“The Leisure Care Lighthouse Awards are an opportunity to recognize the exceptional contribution made by today’s active and community-minded seniors,” says David Podmore, Awards Chairman and President & Chief Executive Officer of Concert. “All of this year’s nominees have demonstrated significant leadership and stand out in their efforts to continue to play a vital role in our society. They are an inspiration to us all.”
More than 50 nominations in four categories were received for the awards program: the Wisdom of Age Mentorship Award, the Picture of Health Award, the Shining Light Award and the Philanthropy Award.
The Wisdom of Age Mentorship Award demonstrates a commitment to making a difference in the lives of children. Recipient Aya Higashi has made a breakthrough in many communities by promoting racial equality and sponsoring children in Third World countries.
The Picture of Health Award, which recognizes exemplary commitment to good health and fitness, was presented to Edna Lee, an energetic volunteer who has developed and led an exercise program for seniors at The O’Keefe for several years.
The Shining Light Award, for outstanding volunteer service to the community and for advocacy on behalf of seniors, was won by Sister Elizabeth Kelliher, who works tirelessly in the Downtown Eastside feeding and helping to clothe the homeless.
The Philanthropy Award, which acknowledges an individual or group that has demonstrated a concern for humanity by providing significant financial resources and personal time, was given to Dr. Raghbir Singh Bains, who has been active in fundraising for the B.C. Cancer Society, the United Way, BC Children’s Hospital and North Delta’s Community Police Station.
“Volunteers are the hidden jewels in our communities,” says Keynote speaker Ida Chong, Minister of Community Services and Minister Responsible for Seniors’ and Women’s Issues. “We are honouring a few special hidden heroes for the impact they make, for the many ways they change our world. Nominees, you show us that age is all about how young you feel and having a positive attitude.”
Since their inception, 149 finalists have been selected and more than 45 community partners have participated. The awards are a partnership between Concert, The O’Keefe, the Province of British Columbia (the Ministries of Health and Community Services), BC Housing, Vancouver Coastal Health, The Vancouver Sun and Leisure Care.
