Delta Firefighters Healthy Snack Program, (Nominated by SD 37, Delta)

Delta Firefighters do more than just fight fires. They are committed to serving the community both at work through the fire department service, as well as in their spare time through numerous charitable organizations and local initiatives.

Their registered charitable organization is 100% run and organized by firefighters, who donate their time to assist with fundraising efforts. Their mandate is to provide direct support to those in need within the community of Delta, specifically those suffering from medical or financial distress.

Firefighters can be found at many local events throughout Delta during the year. This includes the Delta Firefighters Mayor’s Charity Ball, which benefits the Delta Firefighters Healthy Snack Program. This event, organized by the Delta Firefighters, aims to bring the community together for an evening of philanthropy. 

Food Link, (Nominated by SD44, North Vancouver)

Food Link vision and mission are to lead the way in food recovery by rescuing surplus food, distributing it to those in need, and advocating for sustainable solutions that eliminate food waste and hunger, thus enhancing food security for vulnerable populations. Our goal for the next two years is to establish ‘Food Security Through Zero Food Waste, promoting sustainable urban food systems and ensuring access to nutritious meals for our community.

Food Link provides SD 44 with incredible resources to support over 16,700 students and their families as well as the community at large. During the winter break, Food Link provided the district with over 200 new toys and gifts. SD 44 is able to provide for their students at school excellent food options including fresh and local produce, meats, dairy and breads, often organic and always free because of the hard work by the Food Link organization.

Gitlaxt'aamiks Village Government (Nominated by SD 92, Nisga'a)  

The Gitlaxt’aamiks Village Government has consistently demonstrated a profound dedication to fostering educational success through culturally grounded practices that honour our Nisga’a identity. Their support is evident from the very beginning of each school year, as they help lead our opening ceremony—a powerful event rich in our own cultural traditions. Through the act of blanketing our Principals, Directors of Instruction, Superintendent, and staff, they affirm the sacred responsibility of education and envelop leaders in the strength and wisdom of their ancestors.

Lorna Azak (Nominated by SD 92, Nisga'a)

Lorna Azak is a proud Nisga’a woman of the Wolf Tribe who has dedicated her life to caring for her community, its children, and its culture. She was present when the first public school opened in Nisga’a Nation, and her family played a key role in advocating for education to be established on Nisga’a lands, so that children could stay close to home and family while pursuing their learning.

She regularly organizes after-school cultural activities, such as tea picking and cedar harvesting, teaching students about the land and its teachings. She has given countless hours to helping children create Regalia for Hoobiyee, the Nisga’a New Year, ensuring that culture remains alive and vibrant in each new generation.

As a grandmother, Elder, and knowledge keeper, Lorna opens her home as a safe haven for students, where they can eat, feel cared for, and find support. She extends her welcome to teachers and staff, inviting them to participate in Nisga’a song and dance practices that strengthen relationships between the school and the community.

Lorna’s life’s work is guided by love, generosity, and the belief that every child deserves to be nurtured and seen. Her impact on public education in her community has been profound and lasting.

Nanaimo Ladysmith Schools Foundation (Nominated by SD 68, Nanaimo-Ladysmith)