Yellowknife (July 26/06) - "I always thought this was more for professionals or people who did something heroic."

These are the first things you will hear out of Esther Braden when you ask her about becoming a member of the Order of Canada.

Esther Braden has been a vibrant member of Yellowknife's volunteer community.

Her attitude is a humble one, but the long-time Yellowknifer appreciates the honour, which was officially announced Monday.

Since she left Saskatchewan on the new highway with her husband and five children in 1964 she has been a vibrant member of Yellowknife's volunteer community.

She started here with the Holy Trinity Anglican Church as an organist and a choir member and still helps out from time to time.

"For all it's a laid back attitude, it's a fast paced town. There are lots of opportunities," says the 83-year-old.

Braden was born in Rosthern, Saskatchewan in 1923 and graduated from Luther College where she took business.

Braden was the first person to attend the 1-800 line at Yellowknife's tourism centre. She has spent time with the Geological Survey of Canada and was involved in the construction of Northern United Place. Now she's educating people about the risk of hearing loss as a part of her work with the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association.

Work kept her in contact with the rest of Canada and the world. "Everybody is interested in the North. That was very interesting. It gives me a chance to talk about the Northwest Territories."

"It's important to be active," she says.

Braden first heard she was to become a member of the Order of Canada in May and has been letting it sink in since. She doesn't know who nominated her and hasn't asked.

Braden loves Yellowknife. The small but busy atmosphere of the town was the main reason for bringing her family North. Her oldest was in his twenties when they came up; her youngest was a toddler.

"I couldn't think of a better place for my kids. The doors are wide open."

Braden still loves music and along with helping the Hard of Hearing Association, she works with seniors to spread awareness of abuse of the elderly.

"Much more has been said about it (these days). We try to encourage, to tell them there is help and that there are resources in place."

Braden said she was pleased to be a member of the Order of Canada, which puts her in some good company.

"It's an honour for me and also for Canada. The list of people is impressive.

It's just my small contribution. It keeps me going."