N.W.T. volunteers are recognized for leadership in 2026.

The Northwest Territories Outstanding Volunteer Awards — held annually since 1991 — honoured volunteers in youth, Elder, individual and group categories, including youth winner Erasmus and individual winner McShane.

The Northwest Territories Outstanding Volunteer Awards were presented in 2026 to recognise local volunteer leadership and community service. The awards, established in 1991, are held annually to celebrate the role of volunteerism in building resilient and connected communities. They span four categories: youth, Elder, individual and group. This year's recipients include youth winner Erasmus and individual winner McShane, among others. Notable points: - The awards were established in 1991 and are held each year to honour volunteer efforts across the territory. - Erasmus, the youth award winner, volunteers with the Fort Simpson Fire Department and with local speed skating and curling clubs and said she felt honoured to receive the award. - McShane, the individual award winner, has spent 17 years with the Coast Guard Auxiliary in Yellowknife and has worked in marine search and rescue. - The Coast Guard Auxiliary comprises more than 100 volunteer members who respond to emergencies affecting residents and ships in N.W.T. waters, and a new vessel is planned to launch in Aklavik this year. - The Government of the Northwest Territories highlighted Johns for roughly 40 years of service and volunteer leadership in the South Slave region. - The Run for Our Lives Committee has been active for more than 20 years; its annual mud run drew about 400 participants last year to raise funds for Stanton Territorial Hospital. Summary: The 2026 awards highlighted long-standing volunteer commitments and community-led initiatives across the Northwest Territories, from search-and-rescue work to hospital fundraising events. The coverage notes expanding response capacity in the North with a new vessel planned for Aklavik this year. Undetermined at this time.