Vernon’s Good Citizen is taking on the world.
Sarah Armstrong was bestowed with the coveted award by JCI Vernon during a ceremony Thursday night at the Schubert Centre.
“This is cool,” said the 23-year-old who is on the board of the Food Action Society of the North Okanagan and is also involved with Vernon In Transition and the Sustainable Environment Network Society.
In fact, it was during SENS’ monthly meeting that Armstrong was surprised with the honour.
“It was kind of like a reality slap in a good way. I went from a normal state of being to a jolt of energy.”
Armstrong, who grew up in Lumby and Vernon, says the future of the community is what inspires her to be involved.
“All people naturally want to do what is right and help people. My needs are cared for and I’m able to look outside of myself and say, ‘What can I do?’”
It was the Seaton grad’s passion and enthusiasm that led friend Hailey Rilkoff to nominate her for 2015 Good Citizen of the Year.
“I see her everywhere and involved in everything,” said Rilkoff.
Among Armstrong’s other activities is organizing the Roots and Brews fundraiser for FASNO.
JCI members were impressed with Armstrong’s credentials as they read the nominations.
“The award recognizes the heroes of our community,” said Amy Markin, branch president.
“She’s involved in a variety of grassroot activities and is well respected in the community.”
Armstrong is likely the youngest recipient ever of the Good Citizen award and she hopes others her age will look to the future and try and make Vernon a better place to live.
“If you have a passion, you can do what you want because it’s not a big city here yet. There is creative freedom,” she said.
Armstrong has received $500 from the Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy to donate to the charity of her choice.
She will also be featured in the Vernon Winter Carnival parade Feb. 6 and take part in the Winter Breakout Feb. 10 at the Schubert Centre. Tickets for Breakout are $10 and available at the Vernon Winter Carnival office.