Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services Amrik Virk, on behalf of Premier Christy Clark, will present Dylan Van Rooyen, a selfless volunteer in Surrey, with the Province’s newest honour, the Medal of Good Citizenship.

The ceremony will take place at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 31, 2016, at the Surrey Fire Hall 17, 15329 - 32 Ave.

Launched in July 2015 by Premier Clark, the prestigious Medal of Good Citizenship recognizes individuals who, through exceptional long-term service, have made outstanding contributions to their communities without expectation of remuneration or reward. The medal reflects their generosity, service, acts of selflessness and contributions to community life. Nominations for the Medal of Good Citizenship are accepted year-round.

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Van Rooyen, who works in Surrey as a firefighter where he was raised, will be honoured with the medal for inspirational leadership demonstrated in his involvement with many organizations and events centred on helping Surrey youth and families.

His service to community includes countless hours volunteering at organizations like the Child Development Foundation of British Columbia, Tong Louie Family YMCA, Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society as a director and committee member of its charity golf tournament and Leave a Legacy group.  

Through his leadership, participation and fundraising doubled for the Child Development Foundation’s Run, Walk & Roll for our Kids event, resulting in additional help for children with special needs. In nine years with the Tong Louie Family YMCA, he has led numerous charity campaigns to help families, individuals and children who do not have the means to participate in the YMCA’s services such as camps and swimming lessons, in addition to gym and facility access. 

Among his many other contributions, Van Rooyen volunteers as a delivery driver for the Snack Program, which operates in Surrey schools and brings food to children who arrive at school with no breakfast. 

Van Rooyen is among a select group of British Columbians who will receive the Medal of Good Citizenship.

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Quotes:

Premier Christy Clark  – 

“Nobody in British Columbia is a better example of going above and beyond for their community than Dylan Van Rooyen. Not only does he put himself in harm’s way as a firefighter, but has also devoted countless hours of his own time to organizations that make a difference in Surrey.”

Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, and chair of the Medal of Good Citizenship Selection Committee – 

“There are many people who generously volunteer their time, effort and skills to make their community better and this honour acknowledges their excellence, achievement and service. The time spent reviewing nominations was inspiring, and it reinforced to me that we live in a province where each and every day citizens can make a difference through their generosity and selflessness.”

Amrik Virk, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services – 

“Individuals like Dylan Van Rooyen are shining examples of what it is to be a British Columbian, of how one person can change the lives of so many. Whether leading fundraising campaigns or performing grassroots volunteer services, Dylan is an inspiration, showing us that there are many ways to give back to our communities.”

Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development –

“Dylan Van Rooyen exemplifies the kind of citizen who shows deep understanding about his community and what can be done to make it a better place. He gives selflessly of his time and inspires others to help their fellow citizens. For this, he is most deserving of the Medal of Good Citizenship.”

Dylan Van Rooyen, Medal of Good Citizenship recipient  –  

“Since a young age, I was encouraged by my parents to volunteer as a way to gain life experience and give back to the community. Since my first volunteer opportunity as a coach with the Special Olympics, I recognized the importance in supporting those in need. It is our role as citizens to support each other in whatever way we are able. For me that has been donating my time with various organizations to support the work they are doing and the services provided. 

“Being recognized by the Province of British Columbia is very humbling and a true honour. Being a community supporter and volunteer for me is done so with out the view to gain. However it is a rewarding feeling to be recognized for the time and effort dedicated to others. I hope this award encourages others to give back.” 

Quick Facts:

• The Medal of Good Citizenship was launched in 2015 to recognize individuals who, through exceptional long-term volunteer efforts, have made outstanding contributions to the well-being of their communities.
• Nominations for the Medal of Good Citizenship are accepted year-round.
• All regions in the province were represented on the Medal of Good Citizenship Selection Committee and members came from various professional backgrounds.
• More than 220 nominations were reviewed.
• Additional medal presentation ceremonies will be held thrughout the province in the coming months.

Learn More:

To learn more about the medal, or to nominate a good citizen in your community, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/medalofgoodcitizenship

To view photos of recipient ceremonies, visit: https://flic.kr/s/aHskw9MKjm

A backgrounder follows.