AAFRE Awards

Roll of Honour Award

Any AAFRE member in good standing is invited to nominate no more than one volunteer, donor, association, or business for remarkable commitment made to their organization. Reasons outlined in this written nomination must illustrate why the nominee deserves to receive this award.

We are now accepting applications for 2012 Celebrate Excellence Roll of Honour nominations and Outstanding Service nominations. Criteria and applications can be downloaded below.

Celebrate Excellence Roll of Honour Criteria and Nomination Form: Fillable Word Document  or PDF

Outstanding Service Award

This award may be presented annually to an active individual member of AAFRE who has shown leadership and professional ability in the field of fundraising.

Celebrate Excellence Oustanding Service Award: PDF

AAFRE President’s Award

This award is presented when special recognition of an individual or group for their unique or extraordinary service or contribution to AAFRE or one of its members is warranted. This award allows AAFRE to recognize an individual or group that does not meet the criteria for the Roll of Honour or Outstanding Service Awards and is given at the discretion of the AAFRE President with confirmation from the Board. The award recipient does not have to be an AAFRE member but must have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the cause of fundraising.

This is a fantastic opportunity to honour those who have supported your organization in a significant way, especially the fund development initiatives of your organization. The awards are non-competitive and we look forward to celebrating the achievements of the many special people and businesses that are so important to the success of our organizations.

AAFRE’s 2012 Celebrate Excellence luncheon will be held on Wed, March 21, 2012 at the Edmonton Petroleum Club. Tickets for luncheon are available by calling 780.761.1840.

Remember Completed Nominations are due no later then Noon on

Friday, February 17, 2012.

Check out last years' recipients!

AAFRE is proud to honour those member organizations and individulas who prove exceptional efforts in the field of philanthropy and fund development with a prestigious selection of awards.

On behalf of its members, AAFRE annually recognizes and honours various individuals and organizations that have made a significant contribution to the fundraising efforts of our member organizations. This non-competitive award celebrates excellence of the outstanding supporters who enhance the field of fundraising, volunteering, and the not-for-profit sector.

Click on names below for full information on honourees.

2011 Award Recipients

 Brian Alleyne   Nominated by: Uncle & Aunts at Large (Edmonton)   

Sarah Fee   Nominated by: Canadian Liver Foundation

Terry Hanlon     Nominated by: Camp Health, Hope & Happiness

Jadeene Wheaton   Nominated by: YMCA 

The Ionic Club of Edmonton   Nominated by: Capital Care Foundation

Girl Guides of Canada-Alberta Council  Nominated by: Kids Kottage Foundation

Tabs 4 Wheels   Nominated by: Easter Seals Alberta

Friends of St. Michael’s Society of Edmonton  Nominated by: St. Michael’s Health Group

Silent River Benevolent Foundation  Nominated by: Children’s Ability Fund

The St. Albert Association of Friends of the Public Library   Nominated by: St. Albert Public Library

Windsor Plywood (Camrose)  Nominated by: Camrose Association for Community Living

Cenovus Energy  Nominated by: Job Safety Skills Society

The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company  Nominated by: Canadian Paraplegic Association (Alberta)

Clark Builders  Nominated by: Cornerstone Counselling Centre

Whitemud Mechanical Ltd.  Nominated by: The Good Samaritan Society

 Brian Alleyne    

Nominated by: Uncle & Aunts at Large (Edmonton) 

Brian Alleyne has been actively raising funds for Uncles & Aunts at Large for many years. During this time he has also been a member of the Canadian Progress Club - Sherwood Park. In that capacity he has been a volunteer fundraiser and a strong proponent of raising awareness and funds to support our cause of helping single-parent families in great need.

Brian spends hours soliciting items for silent auction items for an annual fundraiser that directly raises monies for the hungry in our community of Uncles & Aunts. In his role as a volunteer & a member of a service club that cares he has demonstrated an enormous amount of compassion towards families in great need. His ongoing effort to help feed the hungry in our organization has helped many families at Christmas time.

His efforts are many: recruiting support thru the Canadian Progress Clubs of Edmonton &
Area, soliciting turkeys thru local food suppliers, arranging pick up and delivery in
extreme weather conditions most of the time, -hand delivering them to the Uncles/Aunts
office with a team of CPC members. The expense and coordination of this event is
arduous and Brian accomplishes this mission by working most of the year in different
volunteer capacities to achieve this enormous food celebration at Christmas time at our
agency. Brian has helped over 300 families in the past 5 years.

Brian has been instrumental in delivering turkeys, potatoes and stuffing to our families
that would otherwise have been without at this special time of the year. Uncles & Aunts
at Large feels blessed to have a volunteer that cares so much about his community. He
has left a footprint of giving and we want to express our sincere thanks to him.

Sarah Fee  

Nominated by: Canadian Liver Foundation

Like so many Canadians, Sarah Fee had never spent
much time thinking about liver disease. All that changed in 2003 when her mother was diagnosed with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) – a chronic liver disease that results in progressive damage to the bile ducts in the liver. No one knows exactly what causes PBC but it is thought to be an abnormal reaction of the immune system which leads it to attack the liver. “Unfortunately, I, like many others, assumed that her liver disease had to be because of alcohol,” says Sarah. “Once I learned some of the facts, I quickly changed my opinion and decided that I wanted to learn more so I could better understand what might happen to my Mom.” This was the year she joined the Canadian Liver Foundation (CLF) as a participant of the Stroll for Liver raising funds and promoting the event to her family and friends.

The following year, Sarah decided that she wanted to do more than just walk and raise donations so she signed up as a volunteer to help organize the event. In 2008 she stepped up to lead the planning committee while at the same time being pregnant with her first child. Sarah remained the driving force behind sponsorships, suppliers, marketing and collecting pledges right up to the point when she went into labour and gave birth to her son the night before the event. While she wasn’t able to join the walkers the next day, she was back a few days later for the wrap-up meeting.

In the five years she has been part of the Stroll for Liver, Sarah has helped with everything from sponsorship to prizing to logistics and personally has raised over $7,000 and helped secure over $12,000 in sponsorships for the CLF.

“Every little bit of volunteer time is so important to a charity like the CLF,” says Sarah. “I’ve found my experience to be very rewarding and I know my efforts are appreciated. My mom has been fortunate as medication has helped to keep her liver very healthy. Her doctor tells her that right now, her liver is basically as healthy as someone without liver disease. This makes me know that I’m doing the right thing by volunteering to help raise money and awareness."

With the time and energy Sarah has put into the CLF we are pleased to nominate her for
the AAFRE Roll of Honour.

Terry Hanlon     

 Nominated by: Camp Health, Hope & Happiness

Nominated by Camp Health, Hope & Happiness, Terry Hanlon is a generous and ambitious individual who is an outstanding advocate and volunteer of Camp He Ho Ha. Terry’s relationship with Camp started 15 years ago when he encouraged and accompanied youth from Lac La Biche to participate in Camp’s fundraising event, the “Shoot For Cause”. Terry is a very generous donor and volunteer and through his involvement in “Kids Forever”, an organization in Fort McMurray that supports children and organizations throughout Alberta, Camp He Ho Ha is the recipient of an annual donation of $30,000.00 from 'Kids Forever'.

As a member of the Strathcona Vintage Tractor Association, Terry initiated a raffle that generated a whopping $10,000.00 in support of Camp He Ho Ha and children & adults with disabilities. Terry continuously seeks opportunities for Camp.

Because of Terry’s passion, the isolation, barriers and limitations endured by children and adults with disabilities are replaced with new experiences, new friendships and renewed hope. Terry has definitely touched many hearts and a made a difference in many lives. None other than Terry Hanlon epitomizes the meaning of making a difference.

Jadeene Wheaton  

Nominated by: YMCA 

Jadeene Wheaton is a committed volunteer to the YMCA Strong Kids campaign and she inspires many staff and volunteers to be involved in the campaign. For the last 7 years Jadeene has been actively involved in our campaign and for the last 4 years she has been chair of the CRT (Chairs Round Table) campaign. Her donor base is over 50 and every year she raises close to $100,000.

Her donor list continues to grow as she is always educating people about the Strong Kids Campaign and our Opportunity Fund. Whether she is in a Y facility, airport or at the grocery store, she will often share her story. She believes that by telling stories to people she meets, it spreads the word of the work we do and in the end make a difference in our community.

Jadeene has made an impact on donors, volunteers and members. Here is what a few people have said:

“Jadeene demonstrates, in her actions as a Philanthropic volunteer, passion and commitment. Her example for me has been a great motivator for my own volunteer work. She is truly dedicated to the YMCA's charitable work and she contributes her time to the United Way as well.” 

                                                                       - Dr. John, Strong Kids Volunteer and Board of Director

“Jadeene has been a terrific example for me as a Volunteer with the Strong Kids Campaign. She has such a positive way of talking about Strong Kids that donors are interested in hearing more about the Fund and want to participate. Her goals are very high and she seems to reach them every year!”

                                                                                                             – Mickey, Strong Kids Volunteer

“Jadeene is a tireless worker for the YMCA. She brings the same skills to class as she does to her role as lead fundraiser for the Strong Kids Campaign--a genuine belief in the value of "Y" membership, a professional approach to her positions, excellent organizational skills, an understanding of the requirements of each position and a warm, friendly approach to all. She is a team player!”

                                                                                            – Edna, member and Strong Kids Volunteer

Jadeene inspires us, energizes us, and is a true role model of a committed volunteer. Her ‘asks’ ooze with passion and not many people can say no to Jadeene!

The Ionic Club of Edmonton  

Nominated by: Capital Care Foundation

CapitalCare Foundation is pleased to honour The Ionic Club of Edmonton. This group of individuals has supported the mission of the CapitalCare Foundation for more than 20
years. Since 1990, the Ionic Club of Edmonton has donated more than $100,000 to a variety of projects at the CapitalCare Lynnwood Continuing Care Centre and McConnell Place West Alzheimer Centre located in west Edmonton. Their efforts have focused on creating the best lifestyle possible for residents who suffer from dementia. Projects have included specialty chairs, electric beds, nursing equipment, dining room furnishings, rehabilitative equipment, and beautification items. Their actions result in significant benefit for the residents and also support the work of the staff who passionately care for those residents.

The Ionic Club of Edmonton has its roots in the Masonic Club of Edmonton, with membership comprising of members of Edmonton Lodge No. 7 and Eastgate Lodge No. 192. In addition to supporting the CapitalCare Foundation they have also provided support to a variety of worthy organizations in Edmonton. One of their most well known efforts was the preservation of a local heritage project. During the early 1980's the club supported the building of an exact replica of the 102 Street Masonic Hall at Fort Edmonton Park.

We are extremely grateful for all they have done for our pioneer Edmontonians suffering from chronic diseases and dementia .Their efforts continue to support the quality of life of our residents by assisting us to create safe and home like environments at the CapitalCare centres. We feel the Ionic Club of Edmonton make an excellent recipient of the AAFRE Roll of Honour.

Girl Guides of Canada-Alberta Council   

Nominated by: Kids Kottage Foundation

The Girl Guides of Canada, Alberta Council, through its twelve Area Councils and at all levels from 5 year old Sparks, to Brownies, Guides, Pathfinders, Rangers and including adult members have adopted the Kids Kottage cause of helping children in need for the past 10 years. Following the mission of The Girl Guides of Canada, enabling girls to be confident, resourceful and courageous, aiming to engage and empower young women make a difference in the world, many of the groups across Alberta have committed to the “Kids Helping Kids” project. This special project encompasses many levels of learning for the young girls who participated:

For Kids Kottage

Kids Kottage would like to honour The Girl Guides of Canada-Alberta Council for the many years of support and commitment to this wonderful project. We are very humbled and deeply encouraged to know that this organization is so committed to growing caring communities, through the wonderful teaching and guidance given to young girls and young women, helping in an effort to raise selfless, philanthropic young people.

Tabs 4 Wheels    

Nominated by: Easter Seals Alberta

Tabs 4 Wheels is a volunteer-based organization that collects tabs from pop cans, cat food cans, etc. from many schools, church groups, service clubs and private individuals.

The Tabs 4 Wheels coordinators receive money from the collection of the tabs and, they, in turn, donate the proceeds to Easter Seals Alberta. Since 2004, from the Tabs 4 Wheelsdonations, Easter Seals was able to purchase five motorized scooters for adults with physical disabilities.

It takes about 8 million tabs to purchase one $3500 motorized scooter. Easter Seals Alberta really appreciates their involvement and support! For the past seven years, these volunteers have collected over 40 million tabs. A special thanks to Lillian and Felix Stradeski and Tony Senger and his late wife Margaret Senger for coordinating this wonderful program.

Friends of St. Michael’s Society of Edmonton   

Nominated by: St. Michael’s Health Group

The Friends of St. Michael's Society of Edmonton is
a group of caring volunteers who provide support to St. Michael's Health Group. This volunteer organization was created in 2006 as a result of the amalgamation of the Rainbow Social Club and St. Michael’s Auxiliary. Both these organizations provided integral support to St. Michael’s Health Group from its inception in 1984.

The members of the Friends of St. Michael’s Society of Edmonton devote many, many hours of their time to helping us live our mission of “Care with Love and Dignity”. Their diligent efforts, working several times a week at bingo events, organizing raffles, casinos and other fund raising initiatives, have assisted us in the purchase of equipment to improve the quality of life of the seniors in our care.

Since inception and amalgamation, the Friends of St. Michael’s Society of Edmonton have raised over $1,400,000 and donated these funds towards equipment purchases and programming for St. Michael’s Health Group’s facilities.

The dedication of FOSMSOE members also extends to developing their role in the volunteer community. Members of the Friends of St. Michael’s Society of Edmonton play a vital role as “Ambassadors” in our Long Term Care Centre. They act as greeters and work voluntary shifts over the weekend hours and provide general information and tours to visitors coming into the facility. Developing and growing their skills as volunteers is crucial to the organization’s continued success.

The Friends of St. Michael’s Society of Edmonton caring and compassion go beyond just supporting those we care for. In December 2008, we suffered a devastating flood in our Long Term Centre. Millions of dollars in damage was done and staff and volunteers were displaced for many months. The Friends of St. Michael’s group was there beside us helping any way that they could to lift our spirits!

St. Michael’s Health Group has a long and proud record in the community as an outstanding provider of high quality senior’s care. This would not have been possible without the close cooperation and assistance of the Friends of St. Michael’s Society of Edmonton.

Silent River Benevolent Foundation   

Nominated by: Children’s Ability Fund

The Silent River Benevolent Foundation is the charitable arm of the Silent River Fung Fu organization in Stony Plain Alberta.

Under the leadership of Master Jeff Brinker, the Silent River Kung Fu students and teachers are just as dedicated to making a difference in the world as they are to the discipline and hard work it takes to succeed in the Marital Arts. Jeff says, “Our training is as much about self defense against indifference and mediocrity as it is about physical attacks. Actions speak louder than words, so our students are encouraged to make a difference by putting their values into action”. At Silent River, we have carefully selected a group of deserving charities and initiatives (near and far) to work toward making the world a better place for our children. We feel strongly that the help we provide, as well as the awareness that we raise, with our students and supporters is a step in the right direction driven by action and compassion."

Money is raised from community based projects that the students organize, complete and record. The projects are about taking what we practice in our school and applying it to the world at large.The Silent River Benevolent Foundation has been a proud supporter of the Children’s Ability Fund for three years with annual contributions of $3,000.

Other organizations that the Foundation supports are:

• Simon Poultney Foundation – working in the county of Parkland with suicide prevention programs
• SCARS – Second Chance Animal Rescue Society – rescuing animals in need
• Atsikana Pa Ulendo – Malawi Girls on the Move – helping young Malawian women achieve self-sufficiency through education
• Lunch for 1000 – feeding 1000 homeless individuals in Kathmandu, Nepal in a single day.

The Silent River Kung Fu Studio and the Silent River Benevolent Foundation support many worthy causes and the Children’s Ability Fund is honored to be included in this group.

The St. Albert Association of Friends of the Public Library   

Nominated by: St. Albert Public Library

The St Albert Assocation of Friends of the Public Library hit an amazing milestone this past year of $100,000 since beginning their support of the St Albert Public Library in 1988.

The Friends are creative - organizing a wide range of events to raise funds. In the early years they held raffles, formed book clubs, and sold book bags. But then they spread their wings and began organizing a variety of events that received great support. Examples include Just Desserts evenings, a silent auction, a concert by the Pre-Tenors, and a production of the play, Memories of a Christmas Ornament.

The Friends have long-standing successes - one of the most successful endeavors is their “Reel” Monday film series, now in its 7th year, which brings critically acclaimed films from the Toronto International Film Festival to St. Albert. Every year the Friends run the Library’s Annual Book Sale which raises almost $10,000.

The Friends have made a difference – their first project raised the funds for a video collection and over the years their donations have enhanced the Library’s collections significantly – to the tune of about 4,000 books, DVDs and other items. And a conservative estimate of the dollar value of their 417 hours of volunteering last year alone amounts to over $6,500.

The Friends are ambassadors - they do more than raise funds. They raise the profile of the Library and maintain the community’s goodwill and support.

The Friends are valued - “The Friends have always come through for us,” said Library Board Chair, Kelly Aisenstat. “They work tirelessly to organize fun and community-focused events to raise funds for important Library purchases. They are also some of the Library’s most reliable volunteers and ambassadors. They help with special events and are the Library’s biggest fans – always willing to spread the word and help advertise.

Windsor Plywood (Camrose)   

Nominated by: Camrose Association for Community Living

Upon moving to Camrose a few years ago, new owners Marius and Nicole Nanu have developed Camrose Windsor Plywood to have a strong reputation of being a well respected, generous and caring business in Camrose and area.

They chose to become engaged with CAFCL close to five years ago, with their support of cash and gift in kind reaching to date over $20,000. Camrose Windsor Plywood in Camrose is committed to Corporate Philanthropy and encourages their employees and the entire community to get involved. Their involvement and support as a Major Sponsor for our signature fundraising Charity Auction and active participation in the event purchasing corporate tickets, buying silent and live auction items, and the donation of large items is greatly appreciated. Without hesitation they have stepped up to the plate each year.

Camrose Windsor Plywood is a business that makes a measurable difference, investing in the future of our community. There is nothing more powerful than a caring community working together. Some other organizations which they support include:
• Support towards the purchasing of the City of Camrose Police Dog, as well as providing $1000 for the dog vest.
• Ducks Unlimited
• S.T.A.R.S.
• Camrose Boys and Girls Club.
• Habitat for Humanity

When asked why they have chosen to support CAFCL, their response was because of their history with working with people with disabilities in Winnipeg at a facility similar to CAFCL. “We support CAFCL because I am a strong believer in the work you do. We have experience of working with individuals with disabilities and I see the work you do as invaluable to the community,” states owner Nicole Nadu.

It is with gratitude, admiration and pride that Camrose Association for Community nominates Camrose Windsor Plywood for the AAFRE Roll of Honour Award. This company is an inspiration and deserves to be honoured for making this world a better place for individuals and children with disabilities, acquired brain injuries and families at risk.

Cenovus Energy  Nominated by: Job Safety Skills Society

Cenovus Energy's financial generosity and contribution of $200,000 in 2010 has enabled the Job Safety Skills Society to proceed with the development and production of safety resources, including instructor resource manuals, safety education and training for educators and students, and student safety certification for youth to meet the newly revised safety curriculum established by Alberta Education.

Because of this sponsorship, the Society is able to provide these resources to junior and senior high schools, without charge, to them for teaching with the use of the Society's program resources, Job Safe in the Classroom & Beyond. This program is designed to provide youth with basic safety training before they enter the workforce. It is taught through junior and senior high schools and enables the students to earn high school credits towards graduation and a Job Safety Skills Society certificate of completion that students are then able to put into their career portfolios, demonstrating to perspective employers that they have a basic awareness and knowledge about the importance of safety on the job, as well as in the community and at home.

To date, more than 35,000 students have successfully completed one or more of the Job Safety Skills Society courses, and this is achievable because of the continuing commitment of companies such as Cenovus Energy who support job safety skills training for youth before they begin to enter the workforce. In addition, Cenovus provides, without charge, the Society with access to many trade show opportunities to promote workplace safety for youth. Because the Society operates on an extremely tight budget, this "free" access to marketing is a definite bonus to promoting youth safety in the workplace.

Job Safety Skills Society is pleased to place Cenovus Energy on the AAFRE Roll of Honour.

The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company   

Nominated by: Canadian Paraplegic Association (Alberta)

For more years than we can remember, The Dominion of
Canada General Insurance Company has been supporting
the Canadian Paraplegic Association (Alberta) and every
other region in Canada. Involved in a number of community initiatives, The Dominion strives to make a difference in the neighbourhoods where they live and do business. The company contributes to a wide range of charitable initiatives, including First National Sponsorship of the Canadian Paraplegic Association and a variety of regional events across Canada.

Most recently, we have cemented our commitment to amateur sport in Canadian communities with The Dominion Curling Club Championship: Canada's first ever national event for club curlers, with all proceeds being contributed to the Canadian Paraplegic Association and other developmental curling initiatives.

In Alberta, the Company has been very hands on by sponsoring and attending virtually every fund raising event in the province.

• Since 2006, Dominion has sponsored 15 golf tournaments for over $50,000 and sent numerous golfers to play and bid – all in support of persons with spinal cord injury
• Since 2006, Dominion has sponsored the Red Carpet Affairs in both Edmonton and Calgary for a total of $40,000
• In Red Deer alone, support for the annual gala, Diamonds & Denim has totalled $30,000.

We are extremely grateful that this national company has kept every community in mind. With head office in Toronto and offices in the major centres only, we feel the company has considered every community – big and small – when it comes to charitable support. Just like the Canadian Paraplegic Association (Alberta), their services are provided in every corner of this province as are their charitable considerations.

The Canadian Paraplegic Association (Alberta) is pleased and proud that The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company has recognized the importance of the services being provided by our association and has shown their support in such a substantial way over the past several years, both on a national and provincial level. For this, they deserve to be on AAFRE’s Roll of Honour.

Clark Builders 

 Nominated by: Cornerstone Counselling Centre

Cornerstone Counselling Centre recognizes Clark Builders for their outstanding contribution to our annual Paddling for Compassion fundraising event. Since the inception of the event in 2002, Clark Builders have contributed as a primary corporate sponsor. In addition, the Clark leadership encourages their staff to become actively involved though participation as a volunteer or as a paddler. Clark Builders supports their paddlers by pledging $100.00 to each participant and the Clark employees are usually among our top fund raisers.

Over the last few years, several Clark employees have served on the Paddling Committee. These dedicated people have given us invaluable help with planning, prizing and securing additional corporate sponsors. We also appreciate that we are welcome to use board rooms in the Clark building for our committee meetings.

Cornerstone Counselling Centre is extremely grateful for the exceptional contribution that Clark Builders makes to our fund raising event and we applaud the spirit of participation that they infuse into their corporate culture.

Whitemud Mechanical Ltd. 

Nominated by: The Good Samaritan Society

Whitemud Mechanical Ltd. is a locally owned company which has been a leader in our community in supporting charities and community organizations. The owners and staff of the company have invested significant time, expertise and resources to enhance the quality of life of families and the communities where they live and work.

As regular supporters of The Good Samaritan Society “Spirit of Caring” Golf Tournament, Whitemud Mechanical has been a faithful supporter and partner in helping us achieve our financial, participant and profile goals. Year after year they have increased their commitment of time, money and merchandise donations making this signature event a very successful venture for the Society. They continue to give by participating in our event and ensuring that they and others actively bid in the auctions, providing yet another source of support to the tournament.

They are committed to our mission of providing quality care within a home-like environment. As a service provider for several of our facilities, Whitemud Mechanical typically provides many “add-on’s” increasing the value of their service to the Society at no additional expense. They are committed to helping our organization be successful in providing the quality care The Good Samaritan Society is known for.

The company is also very dedicated to their employees and families. The personal attention and commitment to their staff and clients has created a culture of caring and community within the company. We at The Good Samaritan Society are fortunate to have established a relationship with Whitemud Mechanical and know that with their support, we will continue to enhance the quality of life for those we serve.

We believe that Whitemud Mechanical is very deserving of a Celebrate Excellence Roll of Honour Award in recognition of the commitment they make every day to creating a healthy community. They do so humbly and with no fanfare, focusing on giving and making a difference.

Celebrate Excellence 2011 was sponsored in part by the: