B.C. Senior Honored with National Award for Volunteer Work

A senior from White Rock, British Columbia, has received national recognition for her extensive volunteer efforts, earning the prestigious Governor General’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. June Young, nominated by her husband Gérald Young, was informed of the honour in October 2022, a secret he had kept for nearly a year. This award acknowledges Canadians who have made significant contributions through volunteerism.

June’s remarkable volunteer journey spans over six decades, with more than 20 years dedicated to her local community. She has been particularly active with the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society for the past 15 years, contributing her time and talents to various initiatives. Additionally, she has knitted and crocheted numerous items for organizations such as the Surrey RCMP, providing tuques through her Hats for the Homeless initiative, and has even created tuques for newborns at Peace Arch Hospital.

Gérald remarked on June’s dedication, stating, “Gandhi once said the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others, and I think June really exemplifies what it means to be dedicated, compassionate, and frankly, selfless.” This dedication has been a lifelong commitment for June, who believes volunteering is the “best part of my life.”

The nomination process for the Sovereign’s Medal requires that candidates demonstrate at least 10 years of unpaid contributions to society. June’s extensive history includes several hours each week spent at the South Surrey RCMP District 5 office, assisting with various tasks before retiring from that role a year ago. Her current focus remains on the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society and her work at Women’s Place, where she has been volunteering for the past three years.

Gérald, inspired by his nephew, retired Canadian Air Force captain Patrick Young, decided to nominate June yet kept the news under wraps to prevent any disappointment if the nomination did not lead to recognition. “I will not to this day know how he kept that a secret,” June expressed during an interview, reflecting on her husband’s difficulty in keeping gifts hidden.

The medal was first introduced in April 2016 and is awarded to individuals who exemplify the spirit of volunteerism across Canada. Last year, Amandeep K. Boparai was among the 61 recipients, recognized for her leadership in community safety initiatives. June’s accomplishments place her alongside other distinguished volunteers who have made notable impacts in their communities.

While the couple has not yet received details regarding the medal ceremony—previously held in Ottawa in April—they plan to attend and celebrate this significant milestone. June expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Every day where something good is accomplished—especially through volunteering—is a wonderful bonus.”

Reflecting on her involvement, June emphasized that volunteering has become a way of life for her. “I will be volunteering until the day I die,” she affirmed, highlighting the deep fulfillment it brings her. As she continues her efforts, June remains humble, insisting that countless others also dedicate their lives to volunteer work, making the world a better place through their contributions.