[Article] Minister's Seniors Service Awards 2026

Minister’s Seniors Service Awards 2026

On October 1, 2026, recipients, community leaders and guests gathered at Government House in Edmonton for the Minister’s Seniors Service Awards. The ceremony honoured nine individuals and organizations for their outstanding service and the meaningful difference they make in the lives of Alberta’s seniors.

The awards recognize individuals and nonprofit organizations whose volunteerism, philanthropy, innovation and outstanding service improve seniors’ lives and strengthen communities. This year’s ceremony was a chance to thank the recipients and share the stories behind their contributions.

Her Honour, the Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, and the Honourable Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, attended the celebration. Chantelle de Jonge, MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore, served as master of ceremonies. Also in attendance were Martin Long, MLA for West Yellowhead; Scott Cyr, MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul; and Sarah Hoffman, MLA for Edmonton-Glenora.  

The three Individual Award recipients help seniors connect with their communities. Ansh Chavda of Edmonton founded Project Care to bring volunteers into care facilities. Janet Gobert of Bonnyville leads inclusive services at the Bonnyville Friendship Centre, while Yvonne Ruys supports accessible activities at the Strathmore Happy Gang Society.

The Nonprofit Awards recognized Building Brains Together in Lethbridge for cognitive health programming, The Evergreens Foundation in Hinton for housing, community services and wildfire evacuation support, and GEF Seniors Housing in Edmonton for affordable housing and community connections.

Josh Bellingham of Three Hills and Calgary’s Young Hearts, Old Souls received Stronger at Every Age Awards. Bellingham helps seniors use technology and recognize scams, while Young Hearts, Old Souls connects youth and seniors through digital support and shared activities.

Marlene Raasok of Airdrie received the Alice Modin Award for decades of volunteer service. Through leadership roles with The Good Samaritan Society and the Alberta Association on Gerontology, she supports healthy aging and seniors’ care. She also volunteers with Drive Happiness, helping seniors get to appointments and access services.

The ceremony honoured the recipients’ accomplishments and the lasting impact of their service to Alberta’s seniors. Their dedication helps ensure seniors have the support and opportunities to remain active and connected in their communities.

To learn more: Celebrating service to Alberta’s seniors