Airdrie High Schooler To Receive Sovereign's Medal For Volunteering

A high school student from Airdrie will be rubbing shoulders with some high profile individuals tomorrow (Monday).

Sarah Rinke, who attends George MacDougall High School in Airdrie, will be one of 46 people who'll be presented with the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteering by Governor General David Johnston at a morning ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.

The medal, which is being presented at the start of National Volunteer Week in Canada, recognizes the exceptional volunteer achievements of Canadians from coast to coast in a wide range of fields.  As an official Canadian honour, it also pays tribute to the dedication and exemplary commitment of volunteers.

Rinke devotes her time and energy to a number of endeavours, both at her school and in the community.  Those efforts include leading a team at the George MacDougall "Ride of the Mustangs" fundraiser, helping out with the school's breakfast program and working at the Airdrie Food Bank.  Rinke serves as an inspiration to all Airdronians.

The Governor General won't be the only celebrity Rinke will get to see tomorrow.  She'll be receiving her medal beside hockey royalty.  Former Toronto Maple Leaf star Darryl Sittler is also being awarded for his many years of volunteering with the Special Olympics.  Sittler is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame and was named to Canada's Walk of Fame in 2016.    

The awards ceremony is set for 8:30 am (MT) tomorrow.