Honoring a Half-Century of Dedication:
Lynne Henderson-Drake
In the world of figure skating, there are few constants. Volunteers come and go, athletes rise and retire, and routines evolve with the times. Yet, for the past fifty years, Lynne Henderson-Drake has been a steadfast pillar of support, dedication, and passion for Figure Skating on Vancouver Island and around British Columbia. Her remarkable journey as a volunteer at the club, region, and section levels is a testament to the power of commitment and the impact of selfless service.
Lynne's journey in figure skating began in Powell River, at the Wellington Skating Club, where at age 4 she first laced up her skates and fell in love with the sport.
Lynne started her volunteering at the grassroots level, where she dedicated eighteen years to the Campbell River Skating Club where she took on roles ranging a from NST program volunteer, to a Club Board member, and culminating with thirteen years as Club President. Lynne’s passion for the sport quickly became evident, earning the admiration of fellow volunteers and club members alike. Lynne’s journey did not stop at the club level. Recognizing a desire to contribute more broadly, Lynne expanded her volunteer time at the Regional level. Here, for over 45 years, including 35 years as Region Chair, she played a crucial role in the Vancouver Island Region’s growth, bringing competitions, workshops, and her passions for the Special Olympic programs to Vancouver Island. The next natural progression for Lynne was to take on responsibilities at the Section level, where she was member of the BC/YT Section's Board of Directors for four years. After her four-year tenure, she returned her attentions to the Vancouver Island Region Board to continue as VI Region Chair.
Some of Lynne’s favorite memories come from the forty-plus years she was a figure skating Judge. She has fond memories of meeting incredible skaters and coaches in her travels throughout BC during those years.
Beyond the tangible contributions, it is Lynne’s unwavering passion for the skaters and the sport that have left an indelible mark on everyone who worked with her. Colleagues, skaters, and fellow volunteers often speak of her knack for motivating others to get involved by volunteering for their club or joining the VI Region Board. One of her favorite ways to get people involved is to say, “If you are going to complain or criticize, then get involved; if not, then stay quiet”. For those who don’t know Lynne, it is a well-known fact that it is difficult, maybe impossible to say no to her!
As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we acknowledge that the true impact of Lynne’s contribution cannot be measured in years alone but in the countless lives they have touched and the enduring legacy she has created. Lynne’s dedication has not only helped Skating grow on Vancouver Island but has also inspired a new generation of volunteers who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Lynne’s fifty years of volunteer service with Skate Canada is a testament of what one person’s passion and commitment can achieve. Her story is an inspiring example of how giving back to the community enriches both the giver and the recipient, creating ripples of positive change that extend far beyond the ice rink.
With her tenure on the Vancouver Island Region Board coming to end this past April, Lynne has turned her time and attention to her ten grandchildren. Her volunteer legacy is being continued as her own children dedicate countless hours to volunteering throughout their own communities.
Lynne was presented her Skate Canada 50-year Volunteer pin by retired CRSC Coach Lyn Holloway in Campbell River on May 6, 2024, surrounded by many of her former CRSC Board members and friends.
Lynne is an extraordinary volunteer, a cherished friend and mentor to many, and a true champion of figure skating. Thank you for your incredible service and unwavering dedication, Lynne. Your legacy will have a lasting impact on the skating community for many years to come!Honoring a Half-Century of Dedication: Lynne Henderson-Drake
In the world of figure skating, there are few constants. Volunteers come and go, athletes rise and retire, and routines evolve with the times. Yet, for the past fifty years, Lynne Henderson-Drake has been a steadfast pillar of support, dedication, and passion for Figure Skating on Vancouver Island and around British Columbia. Her remarkable journey as a volunteer at the club, region, and section levels is a testament to the power of commitment and the impact of selfless service.
Lynne's journey in figure skating began in Powell River, at the Wellington Skating Club, where at age 4 she first laced up her skates and fell in love with the sport.
Lynne started her volunteering at the grassroots level, where she dedicated eighteen years to the Campbell River Skating Club where she took on roles ranging a from NST program volunteer, to a Club Board member, and culminating with thirteen years as Club President. Lynne’s passion for the sport quickly became evident, earning the admiration of fellow volunteers and club members alike. Lynne’s journey did not stop at the club level. Recognizing a desire to contribute more broadly, Lynne expanded her volunteer time at the Regional level. Here, for over 45 years, including 35 years as Region Chair, she played a crucial role in the Vancouver Island Region’s growth, bringing competitions, workshops, and her passions for the Special Olympic programs to Vancouver Island. The next natural progression for Lynne was to take on responsibilities at the Section level, where she was member of the BC/YT Section's Board of Directors for four years. After her four-year tenure, she returned her attentions to the Vancouver Island Region Board to continue as VI Region Chair.
Some of Lynne’s favorite memories come from the forty-plus years she was a figure skating Judge. She has fond memories of meeting incredible skaters and coaches in her travels throughout BC during those years.
Beyond the tangible contributions, it is Lynne’s unwavering passion for the skaters and the sport that have left an indelible mark on everyone who worked with her. Colleagues, skaters, and fellow volunteers often speak of her knack for motivating others to get involved by volunteering for their club or joining the VI Region Board. One of her favorite ways to get people involved is to say, “If you are going to complain or criticize, then get involved; if not, then stay quiet”. For those who don’t know Lynne, it is a well-known fact that it is difficult, maybe impossible to say no to her!
As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we acknowledge that the true impact of Lynne’s contribution cannot be measured in years alone but in the countless lives they have touched and the enduring legacy she has created. Lynne’s dedication has not only helped Skating grow on Vancouver Island but has also inspired a new generation of volunteers who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Lynne’s fifty years of volunteer service with Skate Canada is a testament of what one person’s passion and commitment can achieve. Her story is an inspiring example of how giving back to the community enriches both the giver and the recipient, creating ripples of positive change that extend far beyond the ice rink.
With her tenure on the Vancouver Island Region Board coming to end this past April, Lynne has turned her time and attention to her ten grandchildren. Her volunteer legacy is being continued as her own children dedicate countless hours to volunteering throughout their own communities.
Lynne was presented her Skate Canada 50-year Volunteer pin by retired CRSC Coach Lyn Holloway in Campbell River on May 6, 2024, surrounded by many of her former CRSC Board members and friends.
Lynne is an extraordinary volunteer, a cherished friend and mentor to many, and a true champion of figure skating. Thank you for your incredible service and unwavering dedication, Lynne. Your legacy will have a lasting impact on the skating community for many years to come!
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