REGINA — The ceremony for the 2025 Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal was held on April 21, at Government House in Regina.
During this event, timed to coincide with National Volunteer Week, Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre presented the prestigious award to 14 outstanding citizens, including four from the Yorkton area.
"The 2025 Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal recipients are an impressive group of people," Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre said. "They have worked generously and tirelessly in support of arts and culture, sports and recreation, youth and seniors, veterans and the military, and those living with disabilities and chronic illness. I am thrilled to acknowledge these remarkable individuals who have contributed in countless ways to our province."
The recipients of the 2025 Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal are:
- Craig Bird, C.D., Estevan
- Janice Cochrane, Yorkton
- Vernon Glaicar, Bangor
- Randy Goulden, Yorkton
- Cecile Halyk, Foam Lake
- James Hawn, Saskatoon
- Captain (Ret'd) John Helms, C.D., Saskatoon
- Karen Howard, Regina
- Linda Hryniuk, La Ronge
- Honorary Colonel Curtis Kimpton, Saskatoon
- Carol Marwick, Regina
- Gerry Nelson, Meadow Lake
- Rosemary Overbye, Lake Alma
- Dr. Renatta Varma, Regina
- Janice Cochrane, Yorkton
- Vernon Glaicar, Bangor
- Randy Goulden, Yorkton
- Cecile Halyk, Foam Lake
The Yorkton area is home to recipients Janice Cochrane, Celia Halyk, Randy Goulden and Vernon Glaicar, whose selfless dedication serves as a shining example for us all.
Cecile Halyk
Cecile Halyk has been a cornerstone of the Foam Lake community for nearly 59 years, dedicating her life to service, faith, and local enrichment. A mother of six and a gifted musician, she has led music ministry at the Jubilee Home for over five decades and served in every executive role for the Catholic Women’s League. Beyond her parish, Cecile was a founding member of the "Breast Friends," a group of ten local women who raised nearly $2 million for cancer-related causes. Her quiet generosity and hands-on support for organizations like the Horticultural Society and Royal Purple have left an indelible mark on Saskatchewan.
Janice Cochrane
Janice Cochrane of Yorkton has dedicated decades to strengthening Sask through volunteer leadership and advocacy. A pillar of the diabetes community, she founded the Humboldt branch of the Canadian Diabetes Association and served as Chair of the National Diabetes Educators Section, developing vital health programs and resources for Indigenous families and youth. Her tireless commitment extends to fundraising, long-term care, and local youth initiatives, embodying a lifelong devotion to community well-being.
Vernon Glaicar
Vernon Glaicar has devoted over 40 years to the RM of Saltcoats and the Waldron area, shaping rural Saskatchewan through steadfast leadership. Since 1983, his work as a Councillor has been instrumental in infrastructure and community development, while his 15-year tenure as Chairperson of Morris Lodge ensured high-quality care and support for local seniors. A champion of community life, Vernon has led the Waldron Recreation Board for over three decades, fostering youth activities and local events that continue to strengthen the region’s social fabric.
Randy Goulden
Randy Goulden a resident of Yorkton, is a lifelong community builder whose leadership has shaped both city and province through decades of service. From directing the Yorkton Mental Health Centre to presiding over both the Saskatchewan and Canadian Parks and Recreation Associations, she has tirelessly championed community well-being. Whether organizing major events or chairing the Society for the Involvement of Good Neighbours (SIGN), Randy’s extensive volunteerism reflects a deep commitment to nurturing healthy, vibrant, and inclusive communities for all. Goulden was unable to attend the ceremony.
Since its creation, the medal has been awarded to 286 deserving individuals, to recognize the extraordinary work of volunteers across the province.
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the medal, which was created in 1995 to officially honour the volunteer sector.
Saskatchewan leads the nation in volunteerism.
