Recreation leaders from across the territory met in Whitehorse from October 6 to 9 for the annual Recreation Gathering.
Hosted by the Recreation and Parks Association of the Yukon (RPAY), with support from the Government of Yukon’s Sport and Recreation Branch, the gathering assembles leaders and volunteers for workshops, presentations and networking opportunities.
During the gathering, the Government of Yukon presented its annual Community Recreation Leadership Award. The award recognizes people who have made an outstanding contribution to community recreation in the Yukon.
The 2026 winner of the Community Recreation Leadership Award was Riley Olsen, a Kwanlin Dün First Nation youth recreation program coordinator.
Olsen was honoured with the award for her exceptional leadership, initiative and dedication to her position. Through her ability to build meaningful connections with youth and understand their interests and aspirations, Olsen has spearheaded several new initiatives, including cultural programming trips to Alberta and opportunities for youth to travel to Old Crow for the Father Mouchet Ski Loppet. Olsen is also a hands-on leader in the Kwanlin Dün First Nation’s cross-country skiing program, paddling camps and horse camps, where she fosters confidence, resilience and a sense of community among the youth she serves.
The Recreation and Parks Association of the Yukon also recognized recreation leaders for their contributions across the Yukon.
George Skookum received the RPAY Recognition Award for his passion for softball, hockey and pulling teams together for whatever opportunity is presented. He has made a lasting impact in Carmacks and surrounding Yukon communities through his dedication. Skookum inspires youth and adults alike to stay active, build connections and develop leadership skills.
Peter Jacob received the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association Emerging Leader Award for his commitment to helping expand recreation opportunities in rural Yukon communities. With a strong focus on youth leadership, water safety and community wellbeing, Jacob is a positive role model and mentor who inspires youth and others to become engaged in their communities.
Ian Spencer received the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association Award of Merit. Spencer demonstrated longstanding leadership in strengthening recreation at the community, territorial and national levels while bringing Yukon perspectives to the broader sector. Through his work, Spencer has consistently brought local experience into larger leadership conversations to help advance parks and recreation in a meaningful and lasting way.
I thank all the recreation leaders and volunteers across the territory for their passion and creativity in delivering important programming to Yukoners. I offer my congratulations to all award recipients for their well-deserved recognition, and thank you, Riley, for enriching the lives of our youth.
The Recreation and Parks Association of the Yukon is proud to recognize this year’s award recipients for their contributions to recreation across the Yukon and beyond. Together, these recipients demonstrate the important role recreation plays in connecting people, strengthening communities and improving quality of life across the Yukon.
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The Government of Yukon has presented the Community Recreation Award each year since 2000.
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The Sport and Recreation Branch supports recreation in rural unincorporated Yukon communities through the Community Recreation Assistance Grant, the Small Capital Projects fund and Active After School Grant.
Tim Kucharuk
Press secretary, Cabinet Communications
867-335-2419
[email protected]
John Tonin
Communications, Community Services
867-334-5816
[email protected]