Iqaluit (Dec 01/03) - It was one of those events where you have seen most of the faces in the room somewhere before -- at the school where they teach, or the office they work in.

But the volunteer appreciation night held by the City of Iqaluit Nov. 20 at the Discovery Inn to honour these guests was all about the activities they do in their spare time.

Darlene Nuqingaq, principal of Aqaarniit school, was honoured to receive the Arts and Culture Award for starting a music camp in the city 10 years ago, teaching the fiddle, and helping the Iqaluit Music Society come to life.

"I felt supported," she said of receiving the award.

"It was my first time attending a volunteer event like that," she added. "It was so great to see how many people are involved in volunteering in the community."

Certificates were handed out to 68 volunteers who enjoyed a buffet dinner before the informal ceremony.

Other award winners included Hughie MacLellan for sports and recreation, Joel Fortier for his work with youth, David Wilman was given the Service Club Member award for his involvement with the Rotary, and the Rotary Club of Iqaluit was named Service Organization of the Year.

"It's important for the city to show appreciation to volunteers," said Crystal Jones, recreation co-ordinator for the City of Iqaluit. "If it wasn't for the volunteers, a lot of the events in the city wouldn't happen."

"It is important to show volunteers they are appreciated," added Iqaluit's mayor Elisapee Sheutiapik. "It would be nice if we could do this more often."