EDMONTON, ALBERTA – In a heartfelt ceremony held today at Government House in Edmonton, three dedicated volunteers from Habitat for Humanity Edmonton were awarded the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal. Her Honour, the Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, presented the medals in recognition of their exceptional volunteerism and lasting contributions to the community.
The King’s Coronation Medal honours Canadians who have gone above and beyond in service to others. Reno Laseur, Geoff Baxter, and Ted McClung were selected as recipients by Habitat Edmonton in recognition of their outstanding dedication and impactful contributions to the organization. Their longstanding commitment and quiet leadership have made a profound difference in the lives of countless Albertans seeking safe and affordable homeownership.
“True community lies in the connections that we have with our neighbours, and there is no better way to form those relationships than the act of volunteering,” said Her Honour, the Honourable Salma Lakhani. “The King Charles III Coronation Medals have been a way to raise the profile of Albertans who have devoted their time and talents to serving others and hopefully inspire others to follow in their footsteps. As His Majesty’s representative in Alberta, I offer my congratulations and deepest admiration to medal recipients for their volunteer efforts.”
Reno Laseur, a fixture at the Sherwood Park ReStore, is known for his steadfast presence and selfless approach.
“I am both honoured and humbled at the same time,” said Laseur. “I am passionate about our mission here at Habitat for Humanity and enjoy working with all the fine people that help make it happen.”
Geoff Baxter has lent his talents to everything from ReStore operations to golf tournament planning, always with humility and drive.
“Thank you and the Habitat team for this nomination… It is unexpected but such a greatly appreciated honour,” said Baxter.
Ted McClung, a volunteer of over 20 years, has led build crews and supported ReStore South with skill and grace.
“I feel very honoured to have been nominated by Habitat for Humanity to receive a King’s Coronation Medal,” said McClung. “Remember, I’m just a little old guy who fixes cupboards, builds beds, replaces legs on sofas, and assembles things! Volunteering for Habitat for Humanity has been a very satisfying second career for me. I’ve met so many great people at Habitat and truly enjoy their friendship.”
Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, shared her pride in the recipients:
“Volunteers like Reno, Geoff, and Ted are essential to everything we do at Habitat Edmonton. Their dedication reminds us that lasting change is made possible by everyday people who choose to show up and give back. We’re incredibly grateful for their commitment — and proud to celebrate them with this well-deserved recognition.”
This recognition comes just ahead of National Volunteer Week (April 27 – May 3), a time to reflect on the value of those who give their time to strengthen our communities. Reno, Geoff, and Ted exemplify the spirit of volunteerism at its best — their steady commitment has helped make affordable homeownership possible for more Albertans, and we’re proud to celebrate them not just today, but all year long.
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About Habitat for Humanity Edmonton
Habitat for Humanity Edmonton brings communities together to help build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. For more information about Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, please visit hfh.org.
Media inquiries, please contact:
Afarin Mirzadeh
Manager, Marketing & Communications
Habitat for Humanity Edmonton
communications@hfh.org
604-363-4077
