OLDS — Olds resident Andrea Hawiuk has received the 2021 Imperial Order of the Daughters of the Empire (IODE) Provincial Citizenship Award for her volunteerism in the community.
The award was presented to Hawiuk on Feb. 1 by IODE Baron Tweedsmuir chapter president and provincial IODE citizenship officer Dianne Powney during a brief ceremony at Mountain View Publishing.
As she presented the award, Powney told Hawiuk they had tried twice to present it to her in 2021 but were unable to do so, due to COVID restrictions.
“We hope to be able to invite you to our 2022 provincial annual meeting where we will be honoured to have you as our guest. Our members would very much appreciate recognizing you in person,” Powney said.
Among other efforts, since 2016, Hawiuk has organized the annual suicide prevention conference known as The Conversation Has To Happen.
In 1984, she organized the first annual Moonbeams and Miracles concert which has raised untold dollars for groups such as the Olds & District Hospice Society, STARS Air Ambulance, cancer research, the Central Alberta Pregnancy Care Centre and the Shalom Counselling Centre.
As a result of all her philanthropic work, in October, 2016, Hawiuk was profiled on CTV’s Inspiring Albertans show.
“Your contribution to your community is remarkable and your efforts, dedication and service have made a significant impact to those who are experiencing difficult circumstances,” Powney said as she presented the award.
Hawiuk was asked how she feels about receiving the award.
“Oh, I just feel overwhelmed. Like, I just – this is all a surprise,” she said.
“Andrea Hawiuk is a great representative to receive the IODE Citizenship Award of the Year, as she dedicates her life every day to make others have a better life,” an IODE backgrounder said.
