Yellowknife (May 04/05) - Erin Thompson of Yellowknife is proud to volunteer. This year's Yellowknife winner of the NWT outstanding youth volunteer award said she loves being involved with various organizations both in Yellowknife, and Saskatoon where she attends university.

"Volunteering is an important part of my everyday life," Thompson said after receiving her award at a luncheon.

Thompson first began volunteering in Grade 7 with the Borealis Kennels.

Soon, she joined the Girl Guides organization and worked her way through the ranks for the duration of her schooling, eventually becoming a leader.

She also has undergone training to be a volunteer for the Mental Health Association.

"It's all about helping," she said of her continuous community involvement.

Once in university, Thompson continued her volunteer activities by joining the Wildlife Exotic Management Society and by working in a peer support group.

The 2005 Outstanding Volunteer Award recipients were recognized through MACA for their tireless contribution to their communities.

Mayor Gordon Van Tighem addressed the crowd of about 80 attendees.

"It's the volunteers in the community who make things happen," he noted.

"It's great to see the faces behind the volunteer activities and important for us to thank you for your contributions," Van Tighem said.

Terry Hauff, a founding member of the Yellowknife Search and Rescue team which also was honoured, said he had a good team of dedicated volunteers.

"There are lots of people deserving of it, they put a lot of time into it," Hauff said.

Currently, they have about 15 volunteers, half of which are fairly involved in the group, he said.

Recipient for the Outstanding Group Award was Ecology North.

Kevin Kennedy, a board member for the group, said the members were very happy to win the award.

"We feel our members deserve recognition because we have many, many volunteers from all parts of Yellowknife and occasionally the territories," Kennedy said.

"We are glad they decided to recognize our organization."

Odessa Hewlko, assistant program and special event co-ordinator, said there are many groups and individuals who make a difference in the city through their volunteer efforts.

"It's important to recognize them so their work does not go unnoticed. They are making a difference," Hewlko said.