Spirit of Oliver
The Oliver Good Citizen Award was donated in 1950 by the Junior Chamber of Commerce.
First Recipient was Harold Wright.
In 1961 the Junior Chamber of Commerce ceased to exist, and the trophy was reintroduced in 1966 by the Oliver Board of Trade, later to be renamed “Oliver Chamber of Commerce”.
In 1990, it was decided to make two presentations; one to honour the pioneers who have helped to establish our community and the other to honour our more recent good citizens.
Hence two plaques: “The Citizen Award” and “The Pioneer Award”.
2018 Winners
Community Roots This award Honours individuals or groups that may have settled in greater Oliver following the establishment of the Fairview Townsite and surrounding areas including Osoyoos Indian Band lands. The Winner is Jane Stelkia
Group This award recognizes a community group that demonstrates an outstanding contribution to the community. The Winner is Oliver Lions Club.
Youth This award recognizes an individual youth member who has demonstrated a commitment to our community and has made extraordinary volunteer contributions. The Winner is Abby Teigen.
Individual This award recognizes the volunteer work of an individual adult or couple who have contributed significantly through voluntary service involving a variety of projects, groups and/or programs. The Winner is Fiona Wood.
Community Builder (Oliver Parks & Recreation Society Award) This award recognizes an individual or group that through voluntary activities have left a legacy that builds and improves our community and will enhance the quality of life of children, youth and families. The Winners are Jan and Larry Shannon
2017 Winners:
Pioneer Family: No nominations received for the Pioneer Family Category
Group: Highway to Healing
Youth: Simi Gill
Individual: Greg Norton
Community Builder (Oliver Parks & Recreation Society Award):
Amanda Workman and Randee Ede
2016 Winners:
Heritage: Sue Morhun
Individual Adult: Larry Larson
Group: Women of Oliver for Women
Youth: Ryan Encina
Past Winners – 1950-2018