Abbotsford – Four local individuals and three organizations were honoured at the annual Archway Community Builders’ Awards presented by FortisBC, on Thursday, November 6th at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium.
“Tonight, we are recognizing 16 amazing individuals and organizations who strengthen the fabric of our community with their leadership, their volunteer work, and their collaborative spirits,” said Rod Santiago, Archway central executive officer in his opening speech.
“We know our community would not be the same without you and what you bring to our community.”
“One of the things that Abbotsford is known for and something that makes it such a great place to live is our proud tradition of volunteerism and charitable giving. Whenever there are people in need in our community and farther afield, we can always count on Abbotsford to step up and to lend a hand,” shared Mayor Ross Siemens in his speech.
The event was emceed by Cecilia Mannella, Archway board member and owner of Eterna Counselling & Wellness Inc. Cecilia shared how attending the awards for the first time last year left her inspired by the generosity and spirit of the nominees. She expressed her excitement for this year’s celebration, confident that tonight would be just as remarkable.
“It’s truly inspiring to be reminded that there are so many great people in the world, people who give their time and their energy simply because they care about others in the community.”
Awards were presented in two categories: Community Builders, which honours long-term community service, and Emerging Community Builders, recognizing those who are younger, new to the Fraser Valley, or recently started giving back. New this year, the event also featured the Community Builders’ Award of Excellence to recognize the exceptional, long-term and significant impact of a community partner.
Emerging Community Builders’ Award Recipients
Dr. Amarjot Singh
Dr Amarjot Singh received the Emerging Community Builders’ Award for his compassionate commitment to providing free dental care to community members in need through the Archway Dental Clinic.
“His presence serves as a powerful reminder of why we do this work, because every healthy smile marks a new beginning, and every act of service sends ripples of hope through our community,” shared Christina De Mora, an Archway dental assistant who nominated Singh.
Dr. Singh expressed his gratitude to Archway for the opportunity to volunteer at the clinic.
“My only goal is to do my little part in the community. I think the Archway Dental Clinic is one of the best platforms in the city, which is helping vulnerable people or people who are in need to get dental care.”
Jastinder Bhandal
Jastinder Bhandal was recognized for his leadership, advocacy, and volunteer efforts as well as promoting mental health awareness and organizing food drives for Archway.
As the co-founder and vice president of the Hearts for Humanity Society since 2016, Bhandal helped collect and donate more than 13,000 pounds of food to the Archway Food Bank, along with organizing clothing drives and hygiene initiatives.
Bhandal was unable to attend in person as he is currently enrolled in medical school abroad. However, he submitted a heartfelt video expressing how honoured he feels to receive this recognition.
Community Builders’ Award Recipients (Individuals)
Angel Farquhar
Angel Farquhar received a Community Builders’ Award for her dedicated volunteer work, creative fundraising, and passionate advocacy to help end youth homelessness.
“When asked why she volunteers, Angel says it’s simply what she’s always known. Inspired by her mum and grandma, she started young and she’s never stopped. Giving back fills her bucket, and it’s clear that her passion and dedication have filled many others’ buckets along the way,” shared Wanda Phillips, Archway Youth Resource Centre supervisor who nominated Farquhar.
“I was just honoured to be nominated. So, this truly took me by surprise. It’s something that’s become a passion of mine. So to me, this is just what you do,” shared Angel in her acceptance speech.
Patricia O’Connor
Patricia O’Connor was recognized for her long-term volunteer service at Archway empowering refugees and immigrants through language support and compassionate community building.
“She embodies the true spirit of community building, bringing humility, reliability, and deep compassion to all of her interactions. Her consistent presence and thoughtful engagement have made her an irreplaceable part of our newcomer support network,” shared Paula Mannington, Archway associate director of Language Services, Learning and Development.
Community Builders’ Award Recipient (Corporate Organizations)
Vitalus Nutrition Inc.
Vitalus Nutrition Inc. received a Community Builders’ Award for their outstanding commitment to community care through volunteerism, donation drives, and ongoing support of Archway programs.
Kyoka Yamakawa from the Archway Starfish Pack program thanked Vitalus for their outstanding contributions to the community and highlighted the partnership that began during the pandemic in April 2020.
Travis Drew, vice president operations at Vitalus, highlighted how the company supports employees who volunteer. For every hour an employee spends volunteering, they provide them with an hour off work to encourage community involvement and giving back.
Community Builders’ Award Recipients (Community Organizations)
Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association
Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association (ARJAA) received a Community Builders’ Award for their transformative work in restorative justice, and fostering healing through conflict resolution circles, school-based dialogue programs, and community partnerships.
In their acceptance speech, Taylor Wilson, ARJAA director of programs highlighted the purpose of their program and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers, staff, and partners who help bring their vision to life.
“At its heart, ARJAA is about relationships. It’s about repairing harm, restoring trust, and rebuilding connection where it’s been broken. We’re proud to be part of a community that understands the value of empathy and the power of second chances,” shared Wilson.
Community Builders’ Award of Excellence
Fraserway RV
Fraserway RV was recognized with the first ever Community Builder Award of Excellence for their unwavering partnership with Archway through generous fundraising, sponsorship, and commitment to local well-being, helping to empower meaningful social change.
Alli Blouin, Fraserway RV customer retention & growth manager shared, “Our vision, James’s vision, is to make sure that everyone who wants to, can live out their adventure dreams, whatever that adventure might be. But the reason that this dream is pursued is so that there’s the ability to give back.”
James Epp, owner of Fraserway RV shared how his parents exemplified a life of generosity. He spoke about taking his staff to Kenya to experience the joy of giving back firsthand and expressed gratitude for being blessed with exceptional employees at every level of the organization.
Santiago concluded the event with gratitude to all those involved with “a big thank you to all the nominees for who you are, and how you show up for our community.”
