Grande Prairie City Council has approved a $10,000 sponsorship in support of the Northwest Alberta Foundation’s upcoming 7 Over 70 celebration.
Mayor Jackie Clayton says the sponsorship was an easy choice for council for a number of reasons; however, she says perhaps the most important aspect is taking a moment to celebrate Grande Prairie’s senior population, who have dedicated their lives to making Grande Prairie a better place.
“Community foundations across Canada have done events similar to this, and it’s something we believe, as a council, provides an opportunity to recognize individuals who have really made Grande Prairie what it is today,” she says. “It’s really that legacy piece when you look at the categories, it’s things such as philanthropy and cultural enrichment, but also community builders and legacy awards, just to recognize individuals who were so important to make Grande Prairie what it is, and really put it on the path to success.”
Clayton also points to her council’s strategic priorities list, which identifies seniors and youths as being two groups who would benefit from support from the city.
“You’d see on our list of strategic priorities, youth to seniors is something that is important, not only creating facilities and opportunities for youth and seniors but recognizing them and supporting them in regards to their potential and really bringing quality of life to the forefront,” she says.
This event is the first of its kind in Grande Prairie, and Clayton says the hope is with so many worthy nominees in Grande Prairie, the event can find success for many years to come.
“My understanding is the community foundation of Northwest Alberta plans to make this a regular occurrence, I think that there will be a lot of incredible nominees, and I look forward to seeing the list of nominees and really celebrating those who are recognized in the first event, and I look forward to the event being successful for many years.”
Nominations for the 7 over 70 awards portion close on March 20th, with the awards celebration scheduled for June 7th at the Pomeroy Hotel and Conference Centre.
