2025 Volunteer Citizen of the Year Award Recipients

At Direct Energy, we believe in the power of community—and in the Albertans who help make theirs stronger and more connected every day.

That’s why, in partnership with the Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association (AWNA), we’re proud to announce the recipients of our Direct Energy 2025 Volunteer Citizen of the Year award. These inspiring individuals exemplify what it means to give back—and we’re honoured to further their efforts with a $5,000 donation to each of their chosen non-profits.

Get to know this year’s recipients!

Abbie & Glen Warren

A Safe Place, Sherwood Park

Married for over 52 years, Abbie and Glen Warren have been committed volunteers at A Safe Place in Sherwood Park since 2009. They can be found supporting the shelter’s work at least 3-4 times per week—picking up donations, sorting groceries, preparing food, assembling care bags, and more. Their empathy, care and dedication have touched countless lives and made them a vital part of the A Safe Place family.

A Safe Place offers emergency shelter, support and a path forward for women and children fleeing domestic violence. Learn more and support their work at asafeplace.ca

Daniel Lauper

Linden & District Agricultural Society, Linden

Daniel Lauper has dedicated over 20 years to enhancing life in Linden, Alberta. As president of the Linden & District Agricultural Society, he’s led important infrastructure upgrades, including building a 1.9km path that connects the village’s two care facilities and a complete overhaul of the community’s ice rink—which he continues to maintain and convert seasonally. He also heads up many local events, including Linden’s Sports Day and a town breakfast that feeds over two-thirds of the community. His energy and dedicated leadership help make Linden a great place to live and visit.

The Linden & District Agricultural Society is a cornerstone of community life in the region, fostering rural spirit through events, programs, and facilities that enhance agricultural awareness and support community development.

Find out how to get involved today

Peter O’Brien

Bow Valley SPCA, Canmore

Peter O’Brien turned loss into purpose. After the passing of his wife, the pair’s shared passion for animal welfare led him to Canmore, where he now devotes up to 25 hours a week to the Bow Valley SPCA. From greeting visitors and organizing fundraisers to spending quality time with the animals and assisting with hands-on rehabilitation, Peter does it all—even adopting two animals himself. Peter’s volunteerism doesn’t just end there. When he’s not helping at the shelter, he can be found supporting multiple other non-profits in the Canmore region. His commitment has made a lasting impact on the lives of both animals and the residents of his community.

The Bow Valley SPCA is Canada’s first no-kill, no-cage animal shelter, dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. Learn more, donate or even adopt at bowvalleyspca.org

Thank you to all our 2025 Volunteer Citizen of the Year recipients—and to every volunteer nominated. Your energy inspires us, and our communities are stronger because of you.

 

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