Community Profile

For the past three years Gene Vickers has been the Master of Ceremonies for the Spirit of Community Awards for the Society for Community Development. Every year he grows fonder of the event. Gene's first experience with SCD was as an award winner, receiving the Westminster Savings Credit Union & Community Volunteer Connections, Community Volunteerism Award at the 2001 ceremony. After that he became interested in learning what role The Society for Community Development plays in the community. When he was asked to be Master of Ceremonies he was thrilled. Gene has been very supportive of SCD and the ceremony and truly believes in its purpose. He is always excited for the nominees as they are recognized for all of their accomplishments.

Last year's event had even more special meaning to all that were there. Gene stated, "I had a difficult time keeping the tears from coming". As the family of the late Blossom Broussard accepted the Douglas College, Myrna Popove Lifetime of Leadership Award on her behalf there were tears all over the auditorium. The feeling in the theatre was overwhelming as many people had known Blossom in some way or another.

The personal expression this event creates is what makes it so special and the main reason he enjoys it so much. As a man who definitely believes in volunteerism it shows in everything he does. His mission is "to make a profound difference in the lives of others". To Gene "community really matters". These are not just words to him. He lives it. This can be seen in the awards he has been given for his dedication and commitment to our communities. He has been granted the Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award, the Queens Jubilee Medal and Mr. Millennium from the Crossroads Hospice Society. As a volunteer, Gene cherishes his work with the youth and seniors; he enjoys doing special things for them. Many of his volunteering experiences have taught him that people would get more involved if they knew that their efforts were being recognized. He has personally felt that anytime you give your life to volunteering you can come against some frustration. "People challenge your motives; think that you are doing it for yourself. A pat on the back is what makes it all worthwhile and special." Gene believes that "Thank you" goes a long way and means a lot to the people that dedicate their lives to better our community. "This is exactly what the Spirit of Community Awards does."

A final comment from Gene: To the volunteers that help with The Spirit of Community Awards "You are truly AMAZING!"

Gene: Thank you for sharing, your thoughts, encouraging words, and a bit about yourself to the community and to us.
The Society for Community Development.
Article by Karen Bartlett
Community Administrative Coordinator