Susan Mooney was awarded the title of Carman's 2018 Volunteer of the Year at the Carman Chamber of Commerce annual awards gala this week.

"My parents volunteered, and so I grew up learning volunteering, so I just think it's part of who I am," said Mooney, noting this made it easy for her to join

Susan Mooney accepting the Celebrate Literacy Award last year for her efforts, which include volunteering at Carman Elementary School different committees when she moved to Carman.

Mooney started volunteering when she was about 12 years old, helping out with community fall suppers. Since then, she's been part of establishing places in the community.

"I was on the committee to establish the daycare centre in Carman, that's quite a long time ago," said Mooney. She was also part of the family resource centre, library board, and multicultural festival.

Mooney believes volunteering is good for the soul. In addition, she enjoys meeting people, working with them, and accomplishing things for the community.

"I never work in isolation, I always am part of a committee, and that is so encouraging to be a volunteer because it has so many benefits."

When she was younger, volunteering was simply a part of the programs she participated in. Mooney feels positive about volunteer efforts of young people today.

"I do see there are young people volunteering," said Mooney, noting a grade 12 student helped their multicultural committee this year. "We were thrilled, and she brought to the table just that youth perspective, and of course, her technology ability."

"We have a very active philanthropy group at the high school," she added.

Mooney said she believes Canada is built on volunteering.

Other awards recipients include:
- Business of the Year: Vanderveen's Greenhouse
- Member of the Year: Scott Johnston - MMJS Law office
- Agricultural Business of the Year: Corduroy Plains, Kehler Farms, McIntosh Ventures, Rivertrail Potatoes, and Kroeker Farms