I would like to nominate Lenora Halfe, affectionately known to so many as Lennie, for the Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of her lifelong dedication to helping others and the incredible impact she has made on our community.

Lennie's dedication to serving others began long before her retirement. She started her teaching career in 1973, teaching Grade 1 in Fort Chipewyan, followed by six years teaching in Vernon, British Columbia. In 1981, she returned home to Vermilion and began teaching at St. Jerome's School, where she taught Grade 3 for 18 years and Grade 6 for another 12 years. Even after completing her full-time teaching career, Lennie continued giving back to students through substitute teaching.

For decades, Lennie has been so much more than just a teacher. She has been a mentor, a leader, and a role model to generations of students. I was fortunate enough to have Lennie as one of my teachers, and I can personally speak to the positive influence she has had on those around her. She has always been someone people look up to, respect, and naturally want to follow. She took students under her wing, encouraged them, and genuinely cared about helping them succeed.

What makes Lennie truly special is that her dedication to others has never stopped. Beyond her years in education, she continues to generously volunteer her time supporting the local food bank, helping collect donations and raise funds, and assisting with baptismal courses through her church. Her willingness to give her time and energy to others is simply remarkable.

But what stands out most about Lennie isn't just everything she does — it's the person she is. She is one of the most humble, down-to-earth, kindhearted individuals you could ever meet. She would do absolutely anything to help someone in need, never expecting recognition, praise, or anything in return. In fact, Lennie would probably be the very last person to believe she deserves an award, and that is exactly what makes her so deserving.

Lennie is one of those special people who quietly makes a difference without ever making a fuss about it. She doesn't help others for the spotlight or recognition. She does it because she genuinely cares. Whether it's lending a helping hand, supporting someone going through a difficult time, or simply being there when someone needs her, Lennie is the kind of person every community is fortunate to have.
Some people make a difference through what they do for a living, while others make a difference through how they choose to live their lives. Lennie has done both.

I truly believe Lennie represents everything the Volunteer of the Year Award stands for. Her kindness, generosity, selflessness, and quiet leadership have touched countless lives throughout Vermilion and the surrounding area.

**Lennie has spent more than five decades teaching, guiding, supporting, and giving to others, never once asking for anything in return. I can't think of anyone more deserving of having our community take a moment to recognize and celebrate her.**