The City of Kimberley has honoured Jim Webster with the 2024 Jack Ratcliffe Commitment to Community Award for his work organizing and volunteering in local events.
Mayor Don McCormick says the award honours Webster’s passion and significant impact on the community.
“For 21 years, Jim has organized and brought to fruition a large number of events here in Kimberley, some that everyone can remember, such as Round the Mountain, Symphony on the Mountain and many others,” said McCormick.
“There are a host of events where Jim has brought hundreds of volunteers out to work the events that he has been a part of. Over those 21 years, these events have made this community a better place to be.”
The City says Webster has been a driving force in Kimberley’s events, including the co-founding of the Kimberley North American Orienteering Championships, Round the Mountain, Symphony on the Mountain (three times), Ceilidh on the Mountain, the annual Ugly Sweater 5K food bank fundraiser and the Dusty Downhill, among others.
“Jim is a true community champion who makes things happen, often behind the scenes,” said Shawna Crawford, who nominated Webster for the award.
“He has an incredible ability to connect the right people to the right projects, ensuring everything runs smoothly. His ability to keep plans simple but effective is remarkable. Jim is always volunteering and giving his time, whether it’s setting up tents for JulyFest, supporting the Friends of the Library gallery, assisting at trail running events, or creating photo calendars to raise funds for local causes.”
Webster’s community contributions are on full display through the hours of planning and executing Kimberley’s various events, many of which raised money for charitable causes.
“Organizing events and volunteering isn’t just one person, it’s the team that supports you. I think you have the right attitude and can work with people, you can bring them in and get them to help you and make the events that much better,” said Webster.
The award, named after the inaugural recipient, Jack Ratcliffe, is presented annually to people who enhance the quality of life for the community and its residents.
Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.
