Tony Bourke Honored with 2025 Knights of Pythias Community Award

On Giving Tuesday, the Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies (CFKR) announced that Tony Bourke is the recipient of the 2025 Knights of Pythias Community Volunteer Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities through volunteerism. The announcement was made by Lynnette Wray, Executive Director of CFKR, who emphasized the importance of the day in celebrating generosity and charitable giving.

Wray stated, “Giving Tuesday is a special day to encourage and recognize generosity and charitable giving around the world.” She further praised Bourke as an “unsung hero” whose dedicated volunteer work positively impacts Cranbrook and the surrounding areas.

Celebrating a Lifelong Commitment to Service

Bourke’s volunteer journey began at the Cranbrook Food Bank in 2011, where he commits four days a week to manage “Tony’s Bread Shed.” In this role, he is responsible for weighing and recording incoming food donations, proving to be an invaluable part of the team.

In addition to his work with the food bank, Bourke has also been active with the Cranbrook Hospital Auxiliary, sorting donations and assisting patients since 2011. Five years ago, he expanded his volunteer efforts by joining the Key City Theatre team, further demonstrating his commitment to community service.

As the 2025 award recipient, Bourke has chosen to direct the accompanying $750 donation to KidSport Cranbrook, an organization dedicated to helping local children and youth participate in sports. This decision reflects his ongoing commitment to supporting youth and fostering community engagement.

A Community Inspiration

Julie Rose, Executive Director of the Cranbrook Food Bank Society and Bourke’s nominator, highlighted his impact, stating, “Tony is more than a volunteer; he’s part of the fabric of our community.” She noted his grit, perseverance, and dedication to serving others, which inspire those around him.

“He embodies the value of staying active, engaged, and connected to one’s community, and stands as a role model for what it means to live a life of purpose and kindness,” Rose added. “Cranbrook is better because of him, and he is genuinely deserving of this recognition.”

The CFKR manages the Knights of Pythias endowment fund, which aims to recognize a community volunteer annually, along with a donation to the recipient’s charity of choice. The award previously known as the “Sustainable Community Builder Award” has honored numerous individuals for their exceptional service.

Past recipients include:

• Laura Kennedy (2024) for her extensive community service across various organizations.
• Mike LeClair (2023) for founding the Therapeutic Paws of Canada chapter in Cranbrook.
• Nancy Banks (2022) for over 25 years of service providing valuable support for cancer charity initiatives.
• Jim Nicol (2021) for his leadership and contributions to local environmental efforts.
• Colin Campbell (2020), posthumously recognized for his community contributions through various organizations.

Other notable honorees include Jean-Ann Debreceni (2018), Donna Brady Fields (2017), Robert Williams (2016), and Gord Johnston (2015), each celebrated for their unwavering community commitment.

The recognition of Tony Bourke serves to inspire others in the community to engage in volunteerism and philanthropy, reinforcing the value of contributing to society for a common good.