Corporate Volunteer Award of Excellence

Corporate volunteerism is a vital element of many companies' efforts to demonstrate their commitment to the communities in which they operate. The Corporate Volunteer Award of Excellence is designed to recognize and celebrate the leaders in Alberta's corporate sector for their outstanding commitment and contribution to community building.

The Corporate Volunteer Award of Excellence is open to any local or international business that promotes and encourages a culture of giving and volunteering among employees and is committed to corporate philanthropy and other forms of community support and investment within the province of Alberta.

There are six awards, two for each category of Small, Medium and Large Business. Nominations for the 2009 Corporate Volunteer Award of Excellence are now closed. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination. The awards were presented on June 5, 2009 during Vitalize.

2009 Corporate Volunteer Award of Excellence Recipients

Small Business:

Southcentre Mall in Calgary believes in being active in the community. Together with their charitable partners Southcentre is committed to creating ways for children and families to live well, play together and stay safe. In 2008 Southcentre contributed more than $344,000 through the gifts of time, space and funds to many non-profit and community organizations. Southcentre donated over $64,000 to assist homeless families.

Lloyd FM is passionate about Lloydminster and the people who live there. Their caring, dedication and support of many organizations and causes has exceeded every expectation. Staff of the radio station have raised more than $30,000 for cancer research and have spent over 1000 volunteer hours in 2008 organizing, participating and promoting a variety of events ranging from in school mentoring for children to fundraising drives.

Medium Business:

Brandette Well Servicing Ltd has had a great impact on programs and people in Drayton Valley. They encourage their staff to volunteer and have supported many local initiatives. Brandette Well Servicing Ltd. has consistently contributed to the social development of the community and their financial support is unsurpassed. By supporting community recreation clubs, school projects, community events, fundraising campaigns and individuals with special needs they have stimulated the community and made an impact on the voluntary sector.

Wilde & Company Chartered Accountants founded 47 years ago, now has a staff of 30. The three partners lead by their example of volunteerism, and encourage staff to contribute positively to the Vegreville and district community. Three years ago Wilde and Company introduced a policy that pays every employee three days per year to provide community service to the organization of their choice. In addition to donated time the company has contributed over $15,000 to a variety of community organizations.

Large Business:

EnCana Corporation is a leading North American unconventional natural gas and integrated oil company. EnCana, nominated for their work in Drumheller, supports many service companies and other local businesses, contributing to the strength and sustainability of the communities in which they operate. Community investment and being active in the community are key components of their Corporate Responsibility practices.

Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer LLP (BD&P) is a leading Canadian law firm of over 135 lawyers in Calgary. BD&P believes in the well-founded principle that a law firm's responsibility to the community extends far beyond the provision of legal services. At BD&P "giving back" to the community at large, means financial support, pro bono legal services and the giving of volunteer time to many organizations including Calgary Legal Guidance. BD&P continues to maintain significant partnerships with many charities and organizations.