Alberta’s Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services says the province has to really make sure it works together with a lot of great organizations to be able make sure that seniors can remain comfortably in their home communities.
Jason Nixon adds, it is something he is very passionate about, particularly in rural Alberta but also across the province. He says they had a great opportunity last Friday to recognize some amazing organizations and amazing communities that have been really focused on the same thing. Nixon points out that it is very important for them to recognize that partnership and that dedication to be able to make sure those who built our communities are living successful lives in their elder years.
The MLA for Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre was at Govenment House in Edmonton last week where he was joined by the recipients of the Minister’s Seniors Service Awards. He says Joyce Wicks from the Sundre area received the Special Service Award – All-Star Award. “She received it for a lifetime of dedication to helping seniors in our community. I was very proud to be able to give it to her, both as the Minister but also her MLA and her friend. Joyce’s dedication to our area and to making sure seniors are receiving great service in the community, and they are cared for and able to not only be able to remain in the community but live happy, thriving lives is second to none. I think she is a true leader and we were very, very excited to recognize her contribution.”
According to a press release from the Government of Alberta, All-Star Award is this year’s special service award category that recognizes those who promote healthy aging through innovative programs or services supporting seniors.
The province also honoured three communities by doling out Age-Friendly Alberta Recognition Awards to the Town of Innisfail, the Town of Okotoks, and the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. Those honours go to communities that have taken meaningful steps to become more age-friendly and have prioritized making services more accessible and inclusive for seniors with varying needs and capacities.