Lucy Fraser has been announced as the 2015 Woman of the Year, an annual award from the Soroptimist International of Chilliwack.
Fraser's work as the program director at the Chilliwack Hospice Society caught the attention of the judges in this year's award. Through her role at the Hospice, Fraser handles one-on-one support, program development, volunteer training, public education and program facilitation.
"Her passion for helping individuals find their own voices, while educating and advocating for disenfranchised and marginalized people within our society, runs deeply within her," Soroptimist Anita Rogers said. "Lucy continues to make a very positive and impactful contribution to the community of Chilliwack."
But her nomination included letters of support that show both the caring nature and dedication to excellence Fraser is known for.
“Lucy has a huge heart and is generous," one letter writer told the judging panel. "She will share her time, food, information and 'good deals' with whoever needs it. Lucy empowers people and helps them to move forward to face challenges in their lives with sensitivity and grace.”
Another described Fraser's devotion to her family, and to her own learning, saying Fraser is a "very hardworking, dedicated and caring individual who has an amazing sense of humor. She is also a loving mother of three adult children whom she raised as a single parent. While working full time and raising her children, Lucy completed three degrees. Lucy is truly a leader and life-long learner who enjoys sharing her time and vast repertoire of knowledge and creativity with others.”
Cari Moore, president of the Soroptimist International of Chilliwack said Fraser was an easy choice.
“We were very impressed with the inspired work of Lucy Fraser and congratulate her for being selected as the 2015 Woman of the Year” Moore said. “Our judges have selected a very worthy winner”.
The judging panel included last year's award recipient, Jillian Armit, along with Renee Higginson, Liz Tarras and Anita Rogers.
The awards ceremony featuring the 2015 Woman of the Year will be held on April 22. The location will be City of Chilliwack council chambers, at 8550 Young Road. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a welcome reception and the presentation ceremony will commence at 7 p.m. There is no charge for admission.
“Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend this ceremony," said Rogers, who chairs the award ceremony committee. "We will be honouring the Soroptimist International of Chilliwack Live your Dream Award winners and Violet Richardson Award winner."