The Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC) is an organization that runs, with a few exceptions, on volunteer manpower. In 1994, wanting to honour Arts Council volunteers who have made a lasting impact in their community, the OSAC Volunteer Recognition Award was created. Since that time over 80 people have been honoured with this award. This year, the Leader & District Arts Council is proud to announce that Cheryl Cocks has been honoured as one of the recipients of the 2019 OSAC Volunteer Recognition Award.
Cheryl has been an integral part of the Leader & District Arts Council since joining in 2005. She has also been a vital part of the community for a much longer time. Her love for the community is quite apparent. She has been involved as a volunteer in many capacities and has served on many boards, including the Sandhills Credit Union, Leader United Church, and the Leader Friendship Centre. As a cancer survivor herself, she has also been a major player in organizing the annual Relay for Life event in Leader.
Cheryl was completely surprised when presented with her award at this year’s Arts Council season premiere concert on October 4th. Former Arts Council Member Travis Boser spoke about the impact that Cheryl’s volunteer work has made in the community, and also touched on her career in education. Travis said that “Cheryl’s passion and care for each student that came into her classroom was very evident. She retired from teaching in 2004, and since then many students have spoken about the positive impact she had on their life.” Cheryl responded, noting that volunteer work has greatly enriched her own life and that she plans to continue to be involved in what she can as long as she feels she can make a difference.
Cheryl was also recognized at the provincial level this past weekend at the OSAC Showcase Conference in Saskatoon. Congratulations Cheryl! We cannot think of a more worthy recipient of this provincial honour!