Vital People
Charities operating in the not-for-profit sector are key to the vitality of Southeastern Alberta. They are highly dependent on the dedication, skill, and talent of the staff they employ. The Vital People program aims to acknowledge and encourage the staff working in front-line, program delivery, coordination, or junior management positions for local charities.
The program will offer two $500 awards, to assist with the training or skill development that best suits the needs of the individual selected to receive the award. The program supports these leaders in our community by investing in their success through professional development opportunities.
The Application Process
Staff members and volunteers who hold a permanent position (either full or part-time) are eligible. Vital People Awards are available to those taking on new leadership challenges. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years in the position and the potential, aptitude, and motivation to follow a career in their chosen field within the charitable/not-for-profit sector.
Nominations will be accepted once a year, opening fall of 2025.
Nominations are accepted from Executive Directors and Senior Managers of Registered Charitable Organizations. Only two awards are available. We suggest that a nominated candidate is not informed of the application until the selection process is complete.
Awards will be announced at the Vital Signs launch event each year. Applications should include a simple letter of nomination and recommendation by their supervisor or Executive Director. Please be sure to address the following in your application:
1) How long has the nominee been with your agency?
2) Please share a specific impact story about this nominee and how their presence has improved your agency and its work in our region.
3) If successful, what area of professional development will the award be used for?
Past Recipients of the Vital People Award
2023 Recipients
Danielle Sonnie– YMCA of Medicine Hat
Shanda Wood– Newell housing Foundation
2022 Recipients
Maria Sprenkels– Bow Island & District Health Foundation
2021 Recipients
Shelby Haga – Canadian Mental Health Association, Alberta Southeast Region
Cody Weiss – Friends of Medalta Society
2018 Recipients
Darcia Legg – REDI Enterprises
Krysten Lutz – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Medicine Hat & District
2017 Recipients
Melissa Pearl – Medicine Hat Youth Action Society
Serena Pennings – Brooks Animal Protection Society
2016 Recipients
Jennifer Ottenbreit – Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society
Carol Symington – Redcliff Public Library
2015 Recipients
Brandie Taylor – McMan’s Inn Between Youth Shelter
Louisa Clapper – Bridges Family Programs
2014 Recipients
Jamie Evans – Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society
Christa MacDonald – REDI Enterprises
2013 Recipients
Heather Bach – Health Foundation
Christina Johnson – Medicine Hat Family Services
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