Premier Awards - Outstanding Community Service (Circulation up to 1499, Circulation 1500 to 3999, Circulation 4000 to 6499, Circulation 6500 to 9999, Circulation 10000 to 12499, Circulation 12500 to 17499, Circulation 17500 and over, Digital - Population under 10K, Digital - Population 10-99K, Digital - Population 100K plus)Back
Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Gabriola Sounder (Gabriola Island, BC) Judge Comment: An exceptional example of a community newspaper stepping beyond reporting to actively strengthen democracy. The project addressed voter education, accessibility, youth engagement, and informed public discourse in a remarkably short timeframe. Particularly impressive were the efforts to engage students, remove transportation barriers to voting, and provide expert analysis and community learning opportunities. The initiative demonstrated measurable community impact and embodied the spirit of outstanding community service.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Gulf Islands Driftwood (Salt Spring Island, BC) Judge Comment: Gulf Islands Driftwood: Let's Pick It Up, Salt Spring!
This long-running initiative showcases the power of a community newspaper to mobilize residents around a shared goal. By organizing, promoting, and facilitating island-wide participation, the Driftwood created meaningful environmental, social, and charitable benefits. The campaign has become a valued community tradition and is an excellent example of sustained leadership beyond the newspaper's traditional role.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: St (Albert Gazette, St, Albert, AB) Judge Comment: St. Albert Gazette: 12 Days of Christmas Kindness
This uplifting initiative successfully celebrated the volunteers, caregivers, mentors, and community builders who help strengthen St. Albert. Through reader nominations, business partnerships, and positive storytelling, the Gazette fostered community pride and encouraged civic engagement. The project demonstrates how local newspapers can bring communities together through recognition and appreciation of those who make a difference.
