On March 27th, Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North hosted a celebration to honour three outstanding individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication to affordable housing in their communities. The King Charles III Award Ceremony recognized the efforts of volunteers who have made a lasting impact through their hard work and passion.

The ceremony took place at Black Creek Community Centre, a venue strategically selected to make the event accessible to volunteers from both Courtenay and Campbell River, allowing representatives from both communities to gather and celebrate together. Councillor Nick Ward attended the ceremony on behalf of Cumberland Mayor Vickey Brown. He spoke on the importance of affordable housing and emphasized the important work our volunteers do.

The recipients of the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal were Keith Kent (20 years with Habitat), Pete Peterson (15 years with Habitat), and Margaret Sanders (19 years with Habitat). These volunteers have gone above and beyond to support Habitat for Humanity’s mission of building safe and affordable homes, shaping a future of hope and stability for families in need.

About the Award:

The King Charles III Coronation Medal recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada or to a specific province, territory, region, or community within Canada. The medal is also awarded to those who have achieved extraordinary accomplishments abroad that reflect positively on Canada. For more information about the King Charles III Coronation Medals and their recipients, please visit the Governor General’s website.

Keith Kent

Keith has been a valuable member with Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North for over 20 years! Keith has been part of our organization from the very beginning. From Kitchen salvage to build sites and everything in between, Keith has done it all! He is dedicated, hardworking and always willing to lend a hand. While he may have the best poker face, his smile will surely lift your spirit! Read Keiths' story.


“Do what you can, when you can, because every bit makes a difference. You don’t need to be an expert in anything - we have a place for everyone to get involved." - Keith

Margaret Sanders

Margaret has been a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North for 19 years! She is a valued team member, loved and treasured by all. She is active in our community, volunteering with us as well as other local organizations. Margaret always has a smile on her face when she walks in the door and is always willing to jump in where she is needed. She is more than just a volunteer, Margaret is an integral member of our Habitat family in the Comox Valley.

“I joined Habitat as a volunteer in February 2006, not long after I retired. I wanted something completely different but with a good purpose. I liked that Habitat promoted home ownership and recycling. When I started, only one duplex had been built, and I like that I have contributed, in some small way, to all the homes since!” - Margaret

Pete Peterson

Pete has been an honourable and dedicated volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North for 15 years! He always has the best smile on his face, welcoming customers, mentoring others, and adding laughter to our team. He has the best sense of humour and is loved by everyone. Pete has been more than just a volunteer; he is part of the family and the heart of our ReStore team in Campbell River.

“I volunteer at the ReStore because I enjoy the people who work on the team and the customers. I started at Habitat many years ago. I walked in as a customer and left as a volunteer. I haven’t stopped since.” - Pete

A Message from the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia

"I am delighted to congratulate the recipients of the King Charles Award, celebrating the outstanding dedication of three remarkable individuals who have been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal by Habitat Canada. Their generosity, commitment, and countless hours of volunteerism have made a lasting impact on their communities."

- The Honourable Wendy Cocchia, CM OBC Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia

Thank You

Thank you to everyone who attended in person and in spirit! Thank you to all the volunteers who came early to help set up and to those who stayed to clean up. Also, a shoutout to Gordon Patalla, who helped take photos at the event!

This year’s ceremony highlights the spirit of volunteerism that drives Habitat for Humanity’s mission. Volunteers like Pete, Keith, and Margaret are instrumental in making affordable housing a reality for many individuals and families, and their impact extends far beyond the walls they help build.

Looking to make an impact?

To learn more about volunteering, click below or email us at volunteer@habitatnorthisland.com.