An Airdrie high school student received a national honour yesterday (April 24).

Sarah Rinke was given the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteering in Ottawa, presented by the Honourable Governor General David Johnston.

"It was a really cool experience, and especially at my age. This is my passion, so I'm just so grateful that I recieved the award and that I did get recognition for it, even though it's never what I intended," said Rinke.

The grade ten student said she was surprised when she learned that she had won a national award. When she was first approached by a teacher that wanted to nominate her, she thought it was merely a local award. Once that shock wore off, Rinke was incredibly excited about the recognition, and that excitement stayed up through the medal presentation yesterday.

"It was a very exciting experience and humbling experience to be surrounded by people like me who are trying to make Canada a better place and just doing their small part or big part."

Rinke believes volunteering is something all young people can and should participate in.

"I feel like even though we have very busy lives, we have lots of free time as well, so why not help you community and help your neighbours in that free time."

Rinke has dedicated many hours of her time to volunteering at local organizations including the Airdrie Food Bank and even led a team at this year's Ride of The Mustang fundraiser.

This award dates back to 1995 when it was known as the Governor General's Canadian Caring Award. It was renamed the Sovereign's Medal under David Johnston in 2015.

 

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