Celebrating Our Community Champions

Every year, the General Council of Winnipeg Community Centres (GCWCC) hosts the Above & Beyond Awards — a special occasion dedicated to honouring volunteers, past presidents, and board members whose extraordinary service enriches our city’s Community Centres.

This year, we are thrilled to announce that the following individuals from Dakota CC were nominated and honoured:

Christian Kennedy — Past Chair of Dakota CC’s Board of Directors

As a former Chair of Dakota CC’s Board of Directors, Christian led with vision and dedication. Though his formal term has ended, his legacy remains — through policies, culture, and the structures he helped build. Recognizing his leadership underscores how past board members continue to influence Dakota CC’s success, often in ways that outlast their official tenure.

Beatrice Patton — Volunteer Coordinator

Beatrice has served Dakota CC for several years, quietly taking on the essential but often behind-the-scenes tasks of coordinating volunteers, ensuring programs run smoothly, matching volunteers to roles, and being the friendly point of contact for everyone. Her contributions consistently go beyond expectations; she embodies the heart of volunteerism by helping guarantee that Dakota CC remains welcoming, organized, and inclusive for all community members.

Fred Nicholson — Grounds Cleanup and Recycling Volunteer

Fred’s efforts keep our physical space beautiful, safe, and sustainable. From grounds cleanup to recycling initiatives, Fred has contributed hours of labour and care to maintaining and improving Dakota CC’s environment. His commitment reflects a deep care not only for the property but for the comfort and well-being of everyone who walks through our doors.

A Heartfelt Thank-You

To Beatrice, Fred, Christian and to all volunteers at Dakota CC, whether you’ve been here for decades or just started helping out — we THANK YOU. Your dedication, time, and energy are what make our Centre more than bricks and mortar.

We encourage all community members to take a moment next time you visit: when you see our halls tidy, our grounds clean, our programs running smoothly — know it’s because of volunteers like Beatrice, Fred, and Christian.

If you’re inspired and would like to volunteer, click here to learn more and get involved!