On Friday, September 18, 2026, Shuswap Community Foundation hosted our annual community gathering, the Heart of the Shuswap Mixer. During the evening, SCF recognized two exceptional volunteers as part of the inaugural Heart of the Shuswap Volunteer Awards. 

Melissa Neil, the recipient of the Youth Volunteer Award (sponsored by Mawer Investment Management), was recognized for her dedication to volunteering at Shuswap Lake General Hospital in the Active Emergency Department and the Evening Youth Program.

Ted Danyluk, the recipient of the Adult Volunteer Award (sponsored by Bannister GM Salmon Arm), was recognized for his commitment to multiple impactful North Shuswap organizations, including The Adams River Salmon Society, the North Shuswap Lions Club, and the North Shuswap Disaster Relief Society.

SCF Executive Director Monica Sigurdson says, “It was a real honour for us to be able to celebrate volunteerism at our annual gathering, as it is such a crucial aspect of well rounded philanthropy. Melissa and Ted’s stories exemplify the positive impact volunteers make in communities across the Shuswap.”

Thank you to our 2026 Heart of the Shuswap Volunteer Awards sponsors, Mawer Investment Management and Bannister GM Salmon Arm.