Electoral Area C honours 2026 Volunteer of the Year

The Regional District of East Kootenay has recognized a Wardner local for contributing a great deal of energy – and hundreds of hours each year – to the region.

This year’s Electoral Area C Volunteer of the Year, Jo-Anne Takala, has been the force behind ongoing work at Wardner Community Hall, as well as organizing the Wardner Park Upgrade, supporting provincial and federal elections, and preparing meals for community members in difficult times.

“As the primary organizer for the hall for many years, Jo-Anne has been instrumental in transforming it into a vibrant, well-managed, and welcoming space,” says RDEK Electoral Area C Director Rob Gay. 

“Through her leadership and dedication, the community hall has become both a cornerstone of community life and a significant revenue generator supporting Wardner’s sustainability.”

She was recognized at the RDEK’s Volunteer of the Year celebration Monday night (May 4) in Wardner.