Longtime New Westminster resident Gerda Suess has been recognized for her community contributions by the B.C. Cultural Diversity Association.
Suess, 89, was among 10 seniors recognized by the B.C. Cultural Diversity Association at its Oct. 26 Seniors Day luncheon in Vancouver.
“They were looking for somebody who is over 80, and has done good work for the community for a long time. Somebody nominated me,” she told the Record. “I am absolutely surprised anytime I am honoured. I am a bit speechless.”
The B.C. Cultural Diversity Association, a non-profit and non-political organization officially incorporated in May 2018, aims to promote harmony between and within cultures. It organizes activities that help it meet its goals.
"The National Seniors Day Celebration features recognition with appreciation awards of notable seniors (85+) from diverse cultural backgrounds who made a difference to their communities,” said the program about the group’s Oct. 26 luncheon.
Suess, who was the lone woman among the 10 people recognized at the event, is one of the founders of the New West-based Group of Five and Friends Benevolent Society, which raises funds to buy equipment for Royal Columbian Hospital.
New Westminster’s 2003 Citizen of the Year said she appreciates the award.
“There are people in New Westminster, we don’t even know them, who never stop for the betterment,” Suess added.
