It was a special day for many people from Southern Alberta who were honoured yesterday (October 24th) for their excellence in volunteerism.

The Sovereigns Medal was awarded to 26 individuals including one man from Airdrie. Retired Major Kimberly Greenizen says his desires to serve others is something he'll always have.

"You're in tune with the greater community from the time you join and probably till you don't breathe anymore. I'll always be volunteering somewhere. My wife says when I retire I'll just go from paid work to unpaid work and that'll just keep going."

Since he was in High School, Greenizen says he's also loved to volunteer with young people and families, which he was able to do during his time in the military.

"I had to help families, young families, work budgets, work finances because they were in a realm they just don't understand. You're always helping somebody, you're always taking care of your troops, you're always taking care of their families."

Greenizen also spent over 25 years with young people in the Navy League of Canada.

Recently, Greenizen has taken his passions to helping with the Airdrie Legion and the Shriners Club. Regardless of where he volunteers, he hopes that spirit can be passed on to the rest of the city.

"We're a vibrant community and we really need to help each other out, no matter what hat you're wearing at the time and to make things stronger and a more vibrant tow...city, city now, for everybody."

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