Township Recognizes Outstanding Volunteers

Every year, Township residents are encouraged to share which local volunteers make a difference in the community by recognizing them with a nomination. Our Volunteer Awards acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding contributions of community members who are committed to enhancing Langley through volunteerism.

This year’s Volunteer Appreciation and Awards Evening was held on Thursday, April 10 at the Langley Events Centre where all community members in attendance were thanked and recognized for their contributions. The evening included dinner and the presentation of the Eric Flowerdew Volunteer Award, the John and Muriel Arnason Award, and the Pete Swensson Outstanding Community Youth Award.

“A heartfelt congratulations to all those honoured with this year's Volunteer Awards. And to every single volunteer in our community, thank you. Your willingness to give your time and energy is deeply appreciated. You are the ones who truly enrich the lives of our residents and make the Township of Langley the special place it is to live, work, and play. We are so grateful for your dedication,” said Township of Langley Mayor Eric Woodward.

During the event, three awards were presented to recognize community members for their exceptional volunteer contributions.

Eric Flowerdew Volunteer Award

Named after a former Parks and Recreation commissioner, school trustee, and municipal councillor, the Eric Flowerdew
Volunteer Award recognizes an individual who promotes an active living lifestyle that enhances Langley’s quality of life
and community spirit through creative, cultural, physical, or social pursuits.

The 2024 Eric Flowerdew Volunteer Award was presented to Tami Logan.

Tami Logan has spent over 20 years building a more inclusive community through leadership and volunteerism. She is Vice President of both the Focus Disability Network (for 15 years) and Langley Special Olympics (for 6 years) and has led Langley Dance Connections as Board President for 20 years. Tami has organized events like Summerfest, Operation Trackshoes, and a holiday celebration at the Commodore Ballroom, while also managing inclusive teams like “Green
Lightning” youth soccer and a local baseball team. Her dedication ensures people of all abilities feel seen, supported, and
celebrated.

John and Muriel Arnason Award

The John and Muriel Arnason Award is named after former Township of Langley Councillor and Freewoman Muriel
Arnason and her husband John. It is given to two people who volunteer together to make the Township a better place.

The 2024 John and Muriel Arnason Award was presented to Graeme and Louise Kennedy.

Graeme and Louise Kennedy have dedicated over 40 years to serving their community through Langley Presbyterian and
United Church, taking on vital administrative and outreach roles. Their commitment extends to over 20 years with Scouts
2 Canada, where they have led environmental education, cleanup efforts, and fundraising. For more than a decade, they
have supported Langley Meals on Wheels, delivering meals and providing wellness checks, while also fundraising for the
Canadian Cancer Society. Their volunteer spirit shines at major events like the Vancouver Sun Run and Langley Walk,
where they have volunteered their time for the past 10 years.

Pete Swensson Outstanding Community Youth Award

Presented to a student in Grade 11 or 12 in recognition of their athletic achievements, academic accomplishments, leadership and commitment to the community, the Pete Swensson Outstanding Community Youth Award is named after the Township’s first Recreation Director, an internationally recognized athlete, photographer, and originator of the Langley
Walk.

The 2024-2025 Pete Swensson Outstanding Community Youth Award was presented to Jacob VanderHorst from Credo Christian High School.

Jacob is a multi-talented athlete, excelling in soccer, track and field, and volleyball. A standout player, Jacob helped set a
school record in the 4 x 400 m relay, earned several Player of the Game awards, and was named Most Outstanding Libero at this year’s volleyball provincials, where his team won gold. He also spends his time volunteering with Nightshift Ministries to support the homeless, coaching basketball, and is actively involved in his school's leadership team, organizing fundraisers and events. A straight-A student and multi year recipient of the Lamp of Knowledge Award, Jacob has been accepted into the Mechanical Engineering program at BCIT. Jacob’s dedication extends beyond school and sports – he recently participated in fundraising efforts and a 10-day mission to Mexico to help expand an orphanage.

Recipients of the Flowerdew and Arnason awards each received $1,000 to contribute to a recognized charity or society of their choice which positively supports Township residents. The Swensson award recipient received a $1,500 scholarship.

To learn more about the Township of Langley’s Volunteer Awards visit tol.ca/awards.