Jackie Tegart, MLA for Fraser-Nicola, on behalf of Premier Christy Clark, will present Joann Gabriel, a well-known Princeton citizen, with the province’s newest honour, the Medal of Good Citizenship.

The ceremony will be held Friday, March 24 at 11 a.m. at the Vermillion Fork Restaurant in Princeton.

Launched in July 2015 by Premier Christy 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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Joann Gabriel, a retired public school teacher, will be honoured with the medal for volunteer service spanning 56 years to the community of Princeton.

Her service to community and countless hours of volunteering include serving on the board of the Princeton and District Community Services (PDCSS), a non-profit organization, to meet the needs of the elderly and mentally challenged. Joining in 1979, Gabriel has been treasurer for eleven years and chair for 24 years, under the administration of three executive directors. She is committed to the work the society does under its twelve programs, which include home care, meals-on-wheels, transportation, housing for the elderly and developmentally disabled, adult day center, and an activity center with employment opportunities for mentally challenged in the community.

Among her many other contributions, Gabriel was also instrumental in developing the programs run by the Princeton and District Community Services, demonstrating a passion for making sure that those less fortunate in her community are visible and function in a way that incorporates them into their community as productive members.

Besides PDCSS, Gabriel has also volunteered and served the executives of the Princeton Curling Club, Royal Purple, Kinettes, Princeton Library, Kokanee Summer Swim Club, Princeton Recreation Commission, Vermilion Forks Field Naturalist Club, Princeton Arts Council and St. Paul’s United Church Board and Women's Group over the past 56 years.

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Quotes:

Premier Christy Clark –

“For almost a quarter century, Joann Gabriel has worked tirelessly to make the biggest and best possible difference – helping those in her community who most need it, from seniors to people struggling with mental health.”

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

“The Medal of Good Citizenship recognizes the people in our province who generously and selflessly volunteer their time, effort and skills to make their community better. It is inspiring to work with the selection committee to review nominations and see how one person can make a difference. This year, as we celebrate Canada s 150th anniversary, it is important to recognize individuals who make their communities and, ultimately, their country better.”

Jackie Tegart, MLA for Fraser Nicola –

“Joann Gabriel has dedicated herself to improving the lives of the people of Princeton, willingly offering her time, skills and leadership. No task was too small for her to take on and the community is a better place because of her service.”

Linda Larson, MLA for Boundary-Similkameen -

“Joann Gabriel has shown to be a true visionary who has improved the lives of seniors and people who are mentally challenged through her tireless of support for a society that serves them.  The countless hours she contributes to her community have helped make Princeton a caring place.” 

Joann Gabriel, Medal of Good Citizenship recipient –

“I felt honoured when asked to receive this Medal. I didn't volunteer to receive rewards but have always enjoyed working for my community, to make it a better place for people to live and enjoy, especially the elderly and challenged. I just hope I’ve helped make Princeton a better place to live. Your community is what you make of it! Special thanks to my family for supporting me.”

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.
• An independent Selection Committee reviews nominations and recommends recipients.
• All regions in the province were represented on the Medal of Good Citizenship Selection Committee and members came from various professional backgrounds.

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

Find out more about previous recipients of the Medal of Good Citizenship: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/celebrating-british-columbia/honours-and-awards/medal-good-citizenship/recipients