Vernon Good Citizen of the Year 2023: Gena Barzan
- Kidston Helm Ross
- Jan 25, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 6
At Kidston Helm Ross Lawyers, we believe in celebrating those who make a meaningful impact in our community. That’s why we are proud to sponsor Vernon’s Good Citizen of the Year Award, an annual recognition organized by Junior Chamber International (JCI) Vernon to honor individuals who go above and beyond to serve others.
This year, we were thrilled to help surprise Gena Barzan, the 2023 Good Citizen of the Year, at the Animal Auxiliary Thrift Store, where she was hard at work preparing monthly food hampers for seniors.
Recognizing a Vernon-Area Community Leader
Barzan is the executive director of the Animal Auxiliary Thrift Store, an organization that not only provides affordable clothing and household goods but also funds support programs for animals, rescue groups, and seniors in need. Her efforts extend beyond Vernon, as she has been involved in disaster relief and animal rescue since 2005.
Her dedication to the community is evident in the many ways she provides help:
Coordinating monthly food hampers for seniors
Assisting pet owners who can’t afford food and supplies
Supporting rescue organizations and people impacted by natural disasters
When presented with the award, Barzan expressed her surprise and gratitude, emphasizing that her work is a team effort supported by volunteers and the Vernon community.
A Token of Appreciation
As part of the award, Kidston Helm Ross Lawyers provided Barzan with a $500 donation to give to the charity of her choice. She chose to support Forever Home Sanctuary, a local organization dedicated to providing care and shelter for rescued animals. The donation will go toward building much-needed barns for their animals, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable home.
A Commitment to Community
The Good Citizen of the Year Award is an important tradition that highlights the incredible work being done by individuals like Barzan. At Kidston Helm Ross, we are honored to support this initiative and recognize those who selflessly give their time and effort to improve the lives of others.
Barzan will also be featured in the upcoming Vernon Winter Carnival Parade, giving the community an opportunity to celebrate her achievements.
Congratulations, Gena!
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Gena Barzan and our appreciation to JCI Vernon for organizing this annual recognition. We look forward to continuing to support initiatives that uplift and strengthen the community we proudly serve.
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