Lacombe resident and volunteer, Debbi Gallant was selected by the Alberta Government to receive the 2020 Alberta Community Justice Award; however, she believes the award does not just belong to her but to both the Lacombe Community Watch Association and Lacombe Police Victim Services. 

The award is based on strong relationships and collaboration with police. It was presented in four categories including leadership, innovation, community mobilization, and partnership and collaboration. As President of the Lacombe Community Watch Association and Vice President of the Board Directors for Lacombe Police Victim Services, Gallant was awarded for her expertise in leadership but says others played a role in her success.

“You don't accomplish great things on your own. It takes a group of people or a team around you to make all of that happen. Great leadership also knows that you don't take all of the credit. This award really goes out to everybody that has been involved including the 80 volunteers that have worked with us for the last six years on,” said Gallant.

She attended a virtual award ceremony on November 19th where she accepted her award on behalf of her affiliations. A local police officer nominated Gallant so she was not surprised by the award but was humble about her recognition.

“To me, volunteering in the community is just something you do from the heart. You don't expect to necessarily be acknowledged and nor do you even think in those terms. I was very honored to receive the nomination and then be awarded the leadership forward,” said Gallant.

She’s grown a healthy respect for giving back to the community and says it’s something she is very passionate about.

“I think giving back and giving your time in the community, making good decisions for the well being of every citizen is something that I'm really passionate about. Volunteering in a community is just something that you do from your heart,” said Gallant.

Gallant believes positive relationships with police are the backbone to a strong community because they can’t possibly be everywhere. As crime increases in the community, she hopes the community continues to engage the police to create a safe community space.

She was very appreciative of the award but wanted to recognize all of those who helped her earn recognition.

“I'm very humbled and honored to have been the recipient of the Solicitor General Community Justice Award for leadership. Making communities safer has always been my passion, but really, this award is most reflective of the collective efforts of many volunteers who share the same vision and give us their time and talents towards making a difference in Lacombe. I really need to recognize the ongoing support of the Lacombe Police Service Victim Services and the Lacombe Community Watch Association,” said Gallant.