2026 Mayor’s Recognition Awards: Honoring 5 Volunteers from The Lending Cupboard®

Red Deer thrives because of people who quietly step up to care for each other. At The Lending Cupboard®, we rely on these individuals to help us provide essential medical and mobility equipment to those who need it most, not only in Red Deer actually, but across Central Alberta.

This year, we are incredibly proud to share that five of our own have received the 2026 Mayor’s Recognition Award for Distinguished Voluntary Service. This award highlights volunteers who make a real, positive difference in our community, an impact that reaches well beyond city limits into the surrounding towns and rural areas we serve.

Let's meet some of the people helping keep Central Alberta moving forward.

Bev Neufeld

With over 2,000 volunteer hours since 2016, Bev is a shining example of the many incredible volunteers who keep our storefront running smoothly. She arrives early every week to organize inventory and help clients find exactly what they need. Whether helping seniors or those recovering from surgery, Bev ensures everyone leaves feeling safe and supported. Though she is just one part of a much larger group, her reliability and willingness to help wherever needed greatly strengthen our ability to serve the community. Her volunteer work, along with her long career in education, shows just how committed she is to her community.

Kiffer Neufeld

Kiffer’s specialized, behind-the-scenes contributions have been vital to our operations since November 2012. With more than 40 years of experience as a commercial construction supervisor, he quietly takes on the complex technical jobs without needing any recognition. Every Wednesday morning, Kiffer meticulously sanitizes, inspects, tests, and repairs donated air boots, one of our most popular and in-demand items. By making sure these items are safe and functional, he helps provide clients with high-quality equipment at a fraction of the cost of buying new, ensuring that money doesn't get in the way of healing and recovery.

Bob Gibbens

For over a decade, Bob has been a steady, calming presence in the Red Deer volunteer community, recently earning his 10-year service award. Dedicating about 350 hours every year to The Lending Cupboard®, he proves himself to be one of our most dependable team members both on the road and behind the scenes. As a key driver for our delivery van, Bob ensures clients across Central Alberta receive their medical equipment when they cannot travel themselves. Additionally, he spends every Monday afternoon cleaning and sanitizing returned equipment, which significantly increases our capacity to serve more people quickly.

Mike Turner

Mike’s sustained, selfless service is the true embodiment of community spirit. For nearly 19 years and approximately 200 hours annually, Mike has continually evolved alongside The Lending Cupboard®, shifting from deliveries and client assistance to specializing in shop repairs. Through his skilled maintenance, he carefully restores walkers, wheelchairs, and other essential devices, directly supporting the quality of life for community members facing mobility challenges. Beyond his technical expertise, Mike is also a natural mentor. Humble, patient, and deeply compassionate, he consistently offers guidance through kindness and example, always lifting up his fellow volunteers.

Matthew Elliot

What makes Matthew so special is the genuine warmth and joy he brings to every single shift. He doesn't just give his time; he brightens the whole office. He always greets everyone with genuine enthusiasm, often with a compliment or a joke. He is also a passionate sports fan who loves cheering for the Toronto Blue Jays, Red Deer Rebels, and Edmonton Oilers, and he is always eager to share the latest game scores. Taking on the crucial task of cleaning and sanitizing, Matthew tackles his duties with his favorite cheerful motto: "It's a dirty job, but somebody's got to do it!" His dedication means so much to us. He leaves a lasting mark not just by keeping the office clean, but by brightening the days of our staff, volunteers, and clients.

Thank you to Bev and Kiffer Neufeld, Bob Gibbens, Mike Turner, and Matthew Elliot. You represent the very best of Red Deer and Central Alberta! The Lending Cupboard® family is just so proud.