Prince George's Steve Hamilton will receive a 2024 Medal of Good Citizenship from the province in recognition of his years of dedication to conservation and community stewardship advocacy.
A local writer and communications manager, Hamilton is known for his advocacy for safe and healthy enjoyment of hunting and shooting sports.
He's one of 18 British Columbia people being recognized for helping their communities without expectation of reward.
“The incredible kindness and service of people like this year’s medal recipients make B.C. communities such thriving and welcoming places,” said selection committee chair Lana Popham, minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport. “I am incredibly grateful for the dedication and passion of these extraordinary individuals. They exemplify the true spirit of community service, touching the hearts of all they meet.”
Medal presentation ceremonies will be held in the province in August and early September.
“These 18 people have made a profound impact on their communities and a positive difference in the lives of so many,” said Premier David Eby. “By sharing their time, energy and talents, they are making B.C. a better place. Their selfless generosity is a model for us all and I thank them for it.”
In addition to Hamilton, the 2024 Medal of Good Citizenship recipients are:
- Louise Allen, East Vancouver, for championing affordable housing
- Helen Campbell and Bill Erving, Saanich, for transforming lives through agriculture
- Janice Dallaire, Invermere, for pioneering fire rescue
- Mary Daniel, Port Moody, for inclusion and empowerment advocacy
- Dale Douglas and Murray Stewart, Victoria, for driving success of children’s charities
- Rabiah Dhaliwal, Surrey, for promoting community empowerment and mental-health equity
- Donna Furneaux, Qualicum Beach, for a lifelong commitment to resilience and community service
- Matthew Heneghan, Falkland, for mental-health advocacy and dedication to veterans
- Jim Kojima, C.M., Richmond, for a lifetime of dedication to martial arts and community service
- Christopher Lee, Vancouver, for inspiring youth to volunteer
- Reihaneh Mirjani, Coquitlam, for addressing food insecurity
- Margaret Mubanda, Surrey, for working toward the elimination of poverty and social exclusion in the Lower Mainland
- Lawrence Napier, Mackenzie, for promoting volunteerism and community spirit
- Thelma Rodriguez, Pitt Meadows, for migrant farm-worker support and advocacy in the Fraser Valley
- Carla Stephenson, Ymir, for championing arts and community engagement in the Kootenays
Medal nominations of any current or former long-term B.C. residents are accepted year-round. Youth and posthumous nominations are welcome.
Hamilton was also one of three recipients of the 2023 Citizen of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award honour from the Prince George Community Foundation.