Locals honoured for community efforts 

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ABBOTSFORD –   Two residents and three organizations are the  recipients of an Archway Community Builders’ Award. 

The 20th annual event was held Wednesday, October 14th at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium. 

According to a news release from Archway Community Services, Doreen Schellenberg was recognized in the individual category for decades of volunteering for the Archway Talia’s Closet program, helping to outfit graduates with donated dresses, suits and other services. 

David Ghimire received the Emerging Community Builders’ Award for his efforts to build meaningful intergenerational connections through youth-led digital literacy training for seniors.  He is also being recognized for his support for the Archway Lunch with the Bunch program. 

In his acceptance speech, Ghimire spoke about being inspired to give back after being welcomed to Canada from Ukraine two years ago. 

An award also went to the Inasmuch Community Society for its work advocating for and empowering refugee claimants to rebuild their lives through housing and settlement support. 

“We live in the best country in the world, and I believe that more now than I ever have when I hear what people from other countries have to endure,” said Inasmuch Executive Director Kelly Rader.

In the Corporate Organizations category, Headlands Environmental and Klassen Group were honoured for their commitment to supporting youth, families and local initiatives. 

According to Archway, the Community Builders’ Awards have celebrated many over the years who have helped make Abbotsford a more caring connected and resilient community.   

Mayor Ross Siemens told the crowd, “Our community faces challenges that no one government, agency or organization can solve alone.  Progress happens when we all work together.” 

The recipients were chosen from nearly two dozen nominees. 

Archway Community Services is a non-profit, multi-service, multi-funded community-based social service agency formerly known as Abbotsford Community Services.  Hundreds of staff members and volunteers help thousands of people each year at 25 locations in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission and Langley, BC.