Award Year: 2012

Strongly rooted in his community, Ron Antalek is known for his enormous generosity and genuine compassion. Volunteer, philanthropist, hospital board vice-chair and initiator of many acts of kindness, Ron is an example to all citizens. His major donation to Ridge Meadows Hospital and willingness to have the funding directed to mental health…an area of great need…was an inspired gift. The resulting expanded Psychiatric Unit has reduced the pressure on the emergency department and allowed the timely treatment of mental health patients. His gift was also a visible incentive to other potential donors. Ron is one of those rare individuals whose big heart, positive spirit and enthusiasm touch his entire community.

Werner Heine is Mr. Soccer in the South Cariboo. His accomplishments are legendary – from coach to fundraiser. He believes in the power of sport for its effect on youth’s lifelong good physical health and mental well-being. He led the development of new tournament worthy soccer fields, realizing their importance to the community as a way to host provincial and regional tournaments. He is currently head of a very successful youth refereeing program for the 100 Mile House Soccer Association, has been an organizer of the Terry Fox Run since 2000 and is very involved with the United Way. Werner Heine is an invaluable asset for everything he does for his south Cariboo community.

Vision, tenacity and drive describe Wolfgang Zimmermann and his contributions to the community. For over three decades he has advocated for safer workplaces and the rehabilitation of injured workers. He is nationally and internationally recognized for his expertise. Wolfgang is being honoured today for his leadership in creating education and awareness of workplace safety, health promotion, return to work strategies and disability management. 2011 saw the culmination of his work with the official opening of Pacific Coast University for Workplace Health Sciences in Port Alberni. It’s the first such degree granting institution in the world and positioned Port Alberni on the international map. Wolfgang Zimmermann inspires us all with his determined contributions…in his field and to his community.

British Columbia and the city of Kamloops owe a debt of gratitude to Dr. Roger Barnsley, retired President and Vice-Chancellor of Thompson Rivers University. Dr. Barnsley oversaw the transformation of the institution known as Cariboo College into a university for the 21st century. With its Open Learning Division, international partnerships, innovative Aboriginal learning program, and its positive impact on the social and economic development of the Kamloops region, Thompson Rivers University under Dr. Barnsley’s leadership, has attracted students locally, from across Canada and from 85 countries worldwide. His tremendous contributions are based on his belief that education is fundamental to hope and progress – for students, parents, communities and nation. We honour Dr. Barnsley, today, for the legacy he has created for our Province.

Communities depend on business leaders like Debra Hewson to take a significant role in the guidance of the United Way campaign, such an important vehicle for supporting so many community causes. Debra served as Co-Chair of the Lower Mainland’s 2011 United Way Campaign that raised over 30 million dollars. Her community award today is in response to her volunteer efforts for United Way and other community organizations such as Music Fest Vancouver, an annual ten-day summer musical festival. An industry leader as President and CEO of investment firm Odlum Brown, Debra is also recognized for her encouragement of the company’s philanthropic endeavours. Her generosity of time, expertise and leadership is creating a brighter and stronger future for Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.