Calgary Herald

Devoted, longtime volunteer receives national medal

Avinash Patel has helped promote the language, culture and traditions of the Gujarati community

- MICHELE JARVIE

A longtime Calgary volunteer, who’s still going strong for his community at age 80, has been awarded a national medal.

Avinash Patel was given the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers by Gov. Gen. David Johnston at a ceremony at Rideau Hall. It recognizes those who have made significan­t, sustained and unpaid contributi­ons to their community.

“You work behind the scenes, flying under the radar. But your actions inspire, you motivate others to give,” Johnston told the award recipients. “One way we will create a more caring nation is by celebratin­g those who do good, by honouring them loudly and proudly.”

A four-decade Albertan, Patel went to Ottawa a few days before the official ceremony so he and his wife could take in the sights of the national capital.

“Oh, it was so exciting. We saw Parliament, the Governor General’s residence, the gardens. It was an opportunit­y of a lifetime,” said Patel, clearly thrilled with the honour.

Patel has been a volunteer with the Gujarati community in Calgary since 1976 and is the founding father of Gujarati Mandal, which promotes the language, culture and traditions of the community, which has its roots in the western state in India.

He is still involved as the senior activity co-ordinator and also helps out at the Brenda Stafford Foundation, running bingos, leading day trips or assisting with any other service they need.

“I love doing volunteer work. It gives me pleasure in the heart. It makes other people happy and that makes me happy.”

When he came to Calgary from Kenya in 1973, the Gujarati community was still quite small. But as it began to grow, Patel wanted to ensure it had a society to guide its way. They host many events, including Diwali, Navratri, festival celebratio­ns and picnics, and help newcomers settle in and become active participan­ts in the city.

“It is an important thing. If you are able, give your services to the community. Giving back is very essential,” said the father of two and grandfathe­r of four.

This is the latest in a long line of awards for Patel. He received the Mayor’s Special Recognitio­n, a certificat­e from Alberta Culture and Tourism, was named an Outstandin­g Calgary Citizen by the Alberta Associatio­n of Gerontolog­y and was recognized by the India Canada Associatio­n.

“At your age of 80, you look so young and full of life and you have inspired many community members by (your) leading example,” said Rupesh Patel, secretary of the Gujarati Mandal.

It is an important thing. If you are able, give your services to the community. Giving back is very essential.

 ??  ?? Avinash Patel
Avinash Patel

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