Volunteers are the lifeline of every successful community in this great province of ours, including the Smoky River region.

And it's now your chance to formally recognize them for their outstanding contributions to their respective communities as part of the 2011 Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards.

With the deadline for nominations set for Sept. 30, 2011, Albertans are encouraged to help honour their local volunteers by submitting the names of outstanding community volunteers for this year's awards.

A total of six awards will be handed out: two in each category of youth, adult and senior at the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards gala ceremony being held on International Volunteer Day, December 5.

Since the program began in 2000, upwards of 71 Alberta volunteers have been recognized with this prestigious honour.

“Alberta’s volunteers are the heart and sould of our communities,” says Culture and Community Spirit Minister Lindsay Blackett.

“We all remember well the tremendous response of volunteers from across Alberta during the Slave Lake wildfire crisis."

She adds that same spirit, which is most evident in times of trial, quietly continues, often going unnoticed, each and every day right across the province. These ongoing efforts drive the programs and services that help to make our communities safer, more welcoming and more inclusive.

“It’s time for us to pay tribute to those local heroes. To the young people who have stepped forward bringing their talents and energy to serve their communities and the veteran volunteers who continue to be the leaders in making things happen and getting the job done,” adds Blackett.

The Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards Program is an integral part of the Alberta government's commitment to Alberta’s voluntary sector. The program helps set a standard for service, while encouraging a sustained commitment to civic participation and inspiring others to make volunteering a central part of their lives.

Award Criteria

Albertans, who meet the following criteria, are eligible for a Stars of Alberta Volunteer Award:

. Exemplifies the spirit of community service;

Demonstrates exemplary initiative, leadership, and creativity in his/her service to others;

. Serves as a role model for others in his/her community;

. Inspires others to engage in volunteer service; and

. Improves the overall quality of life of fellow Albertans and community as a whole.

The process of helping to honour an exceptional volunteer from our region is as simple as visiting www.culture.alberta.ca/voluntarysector/stars where nomination forms are readily availalbe online.

You can also call 780-415-8139 (dial 310-0000 for toll-free access) to nominate a volunteer.

Nomination forms can be filled out online.