Two Tri-Cities residents are being recognized by the province for giving back to the community during the pandemic.
Coquitlam’s Amber Gregory and Port Moody’s Jeff McLellan are among 31 British Columbians who received B.C.’s Medal of Good Citizenship during a virtual medal presentation Thursday.
“We are proud to honour these British Columbians who have demonstrated themselves to be extraordinary individuals,” stated Premier John Horgan in a press release. “Each one of them has been singled out by their peers for their tremendous generosity, kindness and selfless acts of service during one of the most challenging times in our province and around the world.”
This year’s awards were focused on recognizing people who “have gone above and beyond expectations in their response to COVID-19.”
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Unprecedented response
Gregory has not been idle. According to her award bio, she worked on many projects to support the community including getting food to people who needed it.
She also helped more than 100 nursing students who were at risk of not meeting their graduation criteria when practicum opportunities weren’t available. Those students spent 5,000 hours with people at porch side visits.
Gregory also worked to support young people with mental health services.
- “Amber brought networks together so actions could be taken, not just discussed,” the profile states. “She never took no for an answer and broke many barriers, but she knew that in this unprecedented time, there needed to be an unprecedented response.”
I love Port Moody
The online community that McClellan created for Port Moody residents became a resource for the isolated and elderly. It was used to support community members who needed help and to promote local businesses and efforts.
McLellan is also involved with many committees to improve Port Moody. But no matter how busy he is, he always finds time to give back more.
- McLellan “always stepped up to the plate to help anyone by picking things up for them, taking them places, or simply being there to talk,” his profile states. “Jeff’s heart, energy and kindness kept the community going, and we will forever be grateful to this absolutely incredible man, with energy and the time for everyone.”
Why does he do it? “Because I can.”
