THE British Columbian government has recognized four outstanding community members from the North Shore.
On March 30, Keith Mitchell, chair of the British Columbia Achievement Foundation, and Premier Christy Clark announced the recipients of this year's B.C. Community Achievement Awards.
The winners from the North Shore include Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia, Sergio Cocchia, Debra Hewson, and Steve Wilson of West Vancouver. Kelly Klein was the lone recipient from North Vancouver.
"The community achievement awards honour those individuals who have made a significant contribution either as a volunteer or in the course of their work," Mitchell said in a press release.
Klein is the North Shore co-ordinator of Special Olympics B.C. She has volunteered countless hours improving the lives of special needs and disabled athletes on the North Shore.
"I was absolutely ecstatic," Klein said about receiving the award. "I do this work because I think the athletes are absolutely wonderful and they deserve to have the best programs possible. There is such a feeling of reward that comes with it."
The Cocchias were honoured for their commitment to the North Shore community as business entrepreneurs. They are both strong supporters of children's charities and community institutions. The Pacific Autism Family Centre, the Children's Charity and the Vancouver Police Foundation are just a few organization that have benefited from the their support.
Wilson was recognized for his role with Junior Achievement of British Columbia. His time as a board member enhanced the organization's governance and financial practices.
The four North Shore residents along with the other 30 recipients will be recognized in a formal presentation in Victoria on April 25.
The British Columbia Achievement Foundation was established as an independent foundation in 2003 by the province. The awards celebrate excellence in the arts, humanities, enterprise and community service.
An independent advisory council selects the winners of the B.C. Community Achievement Awards. Council members include the mayor of Sidney and Quesnel and three past recipients.
"Charity begins at home, that's what I've always believed and I want to thank these remarkable British Columbians for giving their time, dedication and energy to make a positive difference in their communities and our province," said Clark in a press release.
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