PITT MEADOWS, BC – The City of Pitt Meadows is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Community Service Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations whose dedication, compassion and leadership make a meaningful difference in the community.

“Pitt Meadows is strengthened by people who give their time, skills and energy to support others,” says Mayor Nicole MacDonald. “This year’s award recipients truly reflect the spirit of community service and generosity that makes Pitt Meadows such a special place to live.”

The City congratulates the following recipients of the 2025 Community Service Awards:

Against the Odds Achievement Award

The Against the Odds Achievement Award, which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience in the face of adversity, is awarded to:

Alex Paterson for her strength, determination and willingness to use her personal experience to support others. After surviving a traumatic fire incident, Alex courageously returned to the sport she loves, lacrosse, and has continued to thrive as an athlete. She shared her story publicly at a past 2025 Council meeting, speaking with confidence and compassion about recovery, resilience and ways the community can support burn survivors through programs such as the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund and Burn Camp. Alex’s bravery and selflessness have inspired those who have heard her story and made a lasting impact on the community.

Business of the Year Award

The Business of the Year Award, which recognizes a local business that regularly contributes to the overall quality of life in Pitt Meadows through community service, is awarded to:

Amsterdam Garden Centre, represented by Jason and Lindsay Kok, in recognition of more than 40 years of service and community involvement in Pitt Meadows. Amsterdam Garden Centre is known for its continued support of local organizations, including Ridge Meadows Minor Baseball, where the business sponsors youth athletics. Jason Kok also volunteers as a coach, while both Jason and Lindsay dedicated significant time supporting young athletes and their families. The Kok family and Amsterdam Garden Centre are regular participants in Pitt Meadows Day and received first place in the Commercial Category of last year’s parade. Their commitment to community involvement and youth development makes them a valued part of Pitt Meadows.

Community Service Award

The Community Service Award, which recognizes exemplary leadership and outstanding community service without regard for personal gain, is awarded to:

Linda Kingston for her exceptional dedication to Emergency Support Services (ESS) and disaster preparedness. With more than 20 years of experience, Linda has played a key leadership role in supporting residents affected by house and apartment fires, both in Pitt Meadows and neighbouring communities. She is deeply committed to educating residents, particularly seniors, on emergency preparedness and has been instrumental in mentoring ESS volunteers to ensure the team is well trained and ready to respond. Linda’s leadership during recent emergency activations, including the Ford Road Co-op Apartment Fire, demonstrated her calm guidance and unwavering commitment to supporting residents during times of crisis.

Community Service Youth Award

The Community Service Youth Award, which recognizes youth under 25 who have provided outstanding service to the community without regard for personal gain, is awarded to:

Laura Atkinson for her remarkable dedication to volunteering, leadership and community service while balancing full-time school and part-time work. Laura has contributed extensively through Girl Guides as a Junior Leader and Ranger, volunteered through the VolunTeen program at Bailie House supporting hospice residents, and participated in Big Brothers Big Sisters. At Pitt Meadows Secondary School, she is an active member of the Leadership Program, where she helps organize school events, mentors younger students and leads annual Christmas hamper fundraisers supporting families in need. Laura’s compassion, strong work ethic and commitment to giving back make her an outstanding role model and a deserving recipient of this award.

Donnie Florence for his determination, perseverance and positive impact on youth in the community through sport. Donnie’s passion for hockey has driven him to pursue opportunities to develop his skills, from public skating and ball hockey to joining the Pitt Meadows Secondary School Hockey Academy. Through his persistence and love for the game, Donnie is helping break down barriers and inspire other youth from the q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie) First Nation to pursue their goals. His journey demonstrates resilience, leadership and the power of sport to build confidence and community connection.

Good Neighbour Award

The Good Neighbour Award, which recognizes an individual’s contributions to their neighbourhood through acts of kindness, is awarded to:

Bob Sargent for his tireless volunteer service and genuine care for others at the Pitt Meadows Seniors Activity Centre. Bob volunteers several times a week in a variety of roles, including welcoming visitors, serving in the cafe, assisting with reception and supporting outreach efforts. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure seniors feel welcomed, supported and connected, taking the time to listen and respond to individual needs. Bob’s reliability, humility and kindness have enriched the lives of countless residents and strengthened the sense of community in Pitt Meadows.

Spirit of Pitt Meadows Award

The Spirit of Pitt Meadows Award, which recognizes an individual for their overall outstanding community service, dedication and commitment to improving quality of life in Pitt Meadows, is awarded to:

Diane Stevenson for her more than 20 years of dedicated volunteer service with the Ridge Meadows RCMP Crime Prevention Unit. Diane plays a key role in promoting community safety and public awareness in both Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge through initiatives such as Speed Watch, bike patrols and school and community events. Known for her positive attitude and reliability, she consistently steps up to support shifts and programs that strengthen community connections. In addition to her work with crime prevention, Diane is actively involved with BC Special Olympics and other volunteer organizations throughout the Lower Mainland. Her long-standing commitment, consistency and community spirit make her a truly deserving recipient of this award.

“We congratulate all of this year’s award recipients and thank them for the meaningful contributions they make every day,” says Chief Administrative Officer Mark Roberts. “We also extend our appreciation to everyone who took the time to submit nominations.”

Nominations were received, reviewed and selected by a citizen-led task force. Thank you to the 2025 Community Service Awards Task Force for their time and dedication.

The recipients were honoured at a private event and will be acknowledged at the Public Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

For more information or to view past award recipients, visit pittmeadows.ca/awards.

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For more information please contact:
Tia O’Grady
Manager of Communications and Civic Engagement
City of Pitt Meadows

media@pittmeadows.ca