James Chi Ming Pau, Vancouver

Since immigrating to Canada in 1975, Dr. James Chi Ming Pau has selflessly dedicated himself to providing health services and support to seniors, the disadvantaged and people with addictions, in the Downtown Eastside area of Vancouver. Shortly after his arrival, Dr. Pau immersed himself in his new community and has taken on roles such as those of member of the board of the Carnagie Community Centre, co-founder of the North American Buddhist Friendship Order, and founder of the HIV/IDU Services Consumers Board, which runs a needle exchange program. He has also provided free acupuncture sessions to many patients who could not otherwise afford to pay for the treatment. Dr. Pau works tirelessly to ensure that those in vulnerable situations know that there are people who truly care about their health and well-being.

Walter Ricketts, Vancouver

Walter Ricketts has been volunteering at the Triage Emergency Shelter in the Downtown Eastside area of Vancouver seven days a week, for the past 13 years. A quiet, unsung hero, Mr. Ricketts strips and cleans all 28 rooms each morning, does the laundry and maintains the building. In one of Canada’s most troubled communities, Mr. Ricketts is an example of remarkable kindness and true compassion.

Raymond E. Glover, Delta

Blind since 1984, Raymond Glover lives as he always has: by going the extra mile to assist the citizens of Delta, British Columbia. Mr. Glover admirably supports veterans’ causes through his involvement with the British Columbia Regiment Association, namely through the establishment of scholarships on behalf of the Association, meal deliveries to seniors, and fundraising events, such as the annual Homeless Lunch at Drill Hall, which involves the co-ordination of 80 volunteers serving over 450 guests. Mr. Glover continues to be an inspiration for his commitment and dedication to his community.

John M. Horton, Richmond

A former volunteer reservist with the Royal Navy and an avid sailor, John Malcolm Horton, of Richmond, British Columbia, has spent many years ensuring the safety of his fellow mariners. For 28 years, Mr. Horton has been a volunteer rescuer with the Canadian Marine Rescue Auxiliary and the Canadian Lifeboat Institution, the latter of which he helped to establish in 1990. He has also shared his expertise with sea cadets, and both professional and volunteer rescue crews. To this day, Mr. Horton continues his unwavering commitment to improving safety at sea and assisting those in peril.