Volunteer of the Year

Gerry Desjardins and Andrea Mensforth have dedicated over two decades to making Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes a safe and welcoming destination, together contributing nearly 11,000 volunteer hours. As members of the Canadian Ski Patrol, they ensure professional emergency response, train new patrollers and foster a culture of safety and care that allows visitors to fully enjoy Manitoba’s outdoor winter recreation. Beyond the slopes, their expertise supports community events and public safety initiatives. By combining safety, education and hospitality, Gerry and Andrea strengthen community trust and safe outdoor recreation culture at Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes.

Joy is a true FortWhyte Alive ambassador. You can never tell if someone is a lifelong friend or someone she’s just met, as Joy brings the same enthusiasm to every conversation. Whether selling vegetables at the Farm and sharing stories of the youth who help grow them or welcoming you at the Richardson Interpretive Centre, she turns every encounter into a heartwarming experience. Joy eagerly recruits volunteers and passionately shares her knowledge of nature with visitors. Countless people have stories that begin with “Because of Joy…” which highlight the depth of community and culture she helps cultivate at FortWhyte Alive.

Dave’s passionate volunteer leadership at Trails Manitoba, contagious enthusiasm and collaborative spirit has helped advance trail development in the province. From revitalizing Minnedosa’s Squirrel Hills Trail Park and organizing events like Ride Like Ole and Flying Acorn, to coordinating volunteer Dig Nights at Bison Butte, he has mobilized thousands of volunteer hours and nearly $1 million in funding to enhance trail access, engagement and learning. His hands-on approach and welcoming leadership creates community connection, encourages participation from people of all ages and abilities and inspires collaboration among tourism operators. Dave’s commitment to education and riding drives sustainable, accessible trail tourism in Manitoba.

Lois Wales has spent over a decade shaping and energizing tourism in Selkirk, St. Andrews, and St. Clements, turning community creativity into visitor-ready experiences. From co-creating Homes for the Holidays and Holiday Alley to championing the Garden & Art Tour and the restoration of the historic Captain Kennedy House, her vision, leadership and hands-on involvement brings ideas to life. Lois encourages residents, businesses and local leaders to think boldly, while integrating practical solutions like “park and ride” transit tours that connect visitors to events and attractions. Her work highlighting heritage and the local arts with community volunteers and residents generates tourism ambassadors and drives economic activity by turning small-town initiatives into experiences that draw visitors and support local enterprises.

Sharon enriches the FortWhyte Alive experience by bringing creativity, organization and community care to every aspect of the site. From harvesting produce for the Farm Market to preparing crafts, teaching children at the Forest School or packaging locally made honey for the Nature shop, she helps with all aspects of FortWhyte Alive. Her kind, caring and thoughtful nature ensures no aspect of the visitor experience is overlooked, while her 2,000 plus hours of volunteerism clearly show her incredible dedication to FortWhyte Alive.

The Goldwings Volunteer Program at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport connects visitors to Manitoba from the first moment they arrive. With over 100 volunteers contributing tens of thousands of hours annually, the Goldwings guide travellers through wayfinding, accessibility support and any questions to ensure every visitor feels informed, safe and welcomed. Their warmth and expertise enhance Winnipeg’s reputation as a friendly, welcoming destination and fuels major events like the Grey Cup Festival.