Community heroes sought for Alberta seniors service awards

Albertans are being invited to nominate community heroes for the Minister’s Seniors Service Awards, which recognize individuals, organizations and groups that improve the quality of life for seniors across the province.

The awards honour outstanding commitment to enhancing the well-being of Alberta seniors, with recipients celebrated for their dedication, innovation and long-term service.

“Seniors are at the heart of Alberta’s communities, and it’s important we recognize those who work every day to support them,” said Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, in a statement Thursday. “The Minister’s Seniors Service Awards are an opportunity to honour the Albertans who go above and beyond to ensure seniors are supported.”

Awards will be presented to individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations. One of the honours, the Alice Modin Award, recognizes a senior individual or couple for exceptional long-term volunteer service to their community and the province. The award is named for Alice Modin, a longtime advocate who campaigned for Seniors’ Day and helped establish Alberta’s annual Seniors’ Week.

A Special Service Award will also be presented in 2026. The Stronger at Every Age Award will recognize efforts that create inclusive, accessible and connected communities where Albertans can live and age well. This includes initiatives that support age-friendly infrastructure, improve accessibility and transportation, foster intergenerational connections, reduce social isolation and integrate local services that help seniors remain active and independent.

The deadline for nominations is April 30. Submissions can be made online, by mail or by email. Additional details, including past recipients, are available online. Award recipients will be honoured at an in-person ceremony this fall.

Since 1998, the Minister’s Seniors Service Awards have recognized nearly 200 individuals and organizations of all ages for their service to seniors. The Special Service Award was introduced in 2021 and features a different focus each year to highlight areas of particular importance.

In 2025, recipients were selected from 93 nominations based on their positive impact on seniors and communities, the need for the service provided, and the quality, diversity and originality of their work.