Community volunteers were honoured Tuesday for their commitment to society.

Seventeen people were recognized for their dedication to everything from assisting the elderly to representing their neighbourhood.

Shirley Anderson was named volunteer of the year as a member of the Women's Auxiliary to the Whitehorse General Hospital – at the age of 80.

Anderson has served on the auxiliary for the past 28 years.

"Her quiet commitment has seen her change roles within the auxiliary as her health has allowed,” city councillor Kirk Cameron said during Tuesday's dinner held to honour the volunteers.

"For most of those years, Shirley pushed the tuck cart around the hospital, bringing a quiet and gentle presence into the room of patients, visitors and staff alike. Her caring and compassionate disposition has been a blessing to all.”

She's sold daffodils in the hospital foyer for the Canadian Cancer Society, and different items at the Christmas Craft Fair for the hospital, Cameron pointed out.

He said Anderson has also assisted the Blood Ties Four Directions Centre, has helped with supplies for the Outreach Van and has sold poppies for the Whitehorse branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.

"The hospital auxiliary is delighted to nominate Shirley, a humble, generous and most compassionate member of the community,” the councillor said.

"They are grateful that she has spent almost three decades serving those who find themselves in need, both in the hospital and the larger community. Thank you so much from the Women's Auxiliary.”

Also recognized were:

• Tracy Allard, Yukon Arts Centre;

• Erik Blake, Yukon Orienteering Association;

• Frank Curlew, Rotary Club of Whitehorse;

• Chris Hale, Yukon Association for Community Living;

• Maryanne Harach, Macaulay Lodge;

• Jean Johnson, Line of Life Association of Yukon;

• Barbara Phillips, Whitehorse Community Choir;

• Ron Pond, Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition;

• Sylvia Preto, Yukon Learn Society;

• Bernie Richardson, Copper Ridge Place;

• John Robbins, Habitat for Humanity;

• Beth Roberts, Crestview Community Association;

• Gordon Sutton, Grey Mountain Lions;

• Natalie Taylor, Girl Guides of Canada – Yukon Area;

• Scott Williams and Selena Boothroyd, Cross Country Yukon; and

• John Wright, Whitehorse Cross Country Ski Club.

"It is with great pride that we recognize our community's volunteers for their selfless contributions to the fabric of our community,” said Mayor Bev Buckway.

"Volunteers help make Whitehorse one of the best places in Canada in which to live. Thanks to all the volunteers for what you do.”