It came as “a total shock” to Lucille Armstrong when she heard her name announced as the 2024 South Cariboo Citizen of the Year on Canada Day.
“I am totally honoured that somebody thought I deserved to even be nominated, and was extremely shocked that I won,” says the long-term resident of 100 Mile House. “There are just so many people in the Cariboo who give so much, that’s for darn sure.”
Armstrong was one of six nominees who took to the stage at the 108 Heritage Site during the Canada Day celebrations. Which, of course, she was spending the day volunteering at the festivities.
Joining Armstrong on stage for the presentation were the other five nominees for the award, including Danielle Colbourne, Bev Fry, Marty Mahovlich, Bruce Andersen, and Bernice Williams. The Citizen of the Year award originally started in 1986, recognizing those who give much of their own time for their community.
Armstrong, who has been living in 100 Mile House since 2000, says she started volunteering as a way to meet people when she first moved to the community. Originally, she volunteered with her coworkers at the RBC, doing community events and grant funding. Then her volunteer work expanded into her dentist’s office, the school board, and much more. Armstron has worn many different hats, badges, and roles within the community.
“I love that when I go downtown, I see and meet people who I’ve volunteered and worked with. There is a real ‘feel’ of community. I didn’t grow up here, but by going out and meeting everyone, I feel like I did.”
One of Armstrong’s current volunteer projects is helping raise funds for the 108 outdoor recreation committee, towards an outdoor sports arena for the community hall. On top of that, Armstrong has also started volunteering in the kitchen at 100 Mile’s Legion, and loving every moment.
“Lucille, she’s a very very active lady, and very energetic,” says Councillor Donna Barnett, who was part of the presentation of the award.
“She is always there if needed. She always puts her hand up if she can help. She doesn’t belong to any boards or anything like that, she just likes to help everybody out, no matter who you are. She will be there to knock on your door if she can.”
The importance of volunteers and their work is shown throughout the South Cariboo. Barnett says it is one of the most important roles in economic development. Tourism, the trails, even the 108 Heritage Site is run on volunteer worker power.
“Without volunteers in the Cariboo, we would have nothing. They make life better for everybody.”
For Armstrong, she says she is pleased but still in awe of her award win. She encourages everyone to get out and volunteer.
“Thank you to everybody, and get out and volunteer. It’s fun, it’s gratifying, and you will love your community.”
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