Bill Popplewell was named Community Builder of the Year at the Cochrane Community Awards because of his “passion and enthusiasm.”
“I was shocked and surprised to receive the award,” Popplewell said.
The community builder said he was humbled by the nomination because he does not volunteer to get recognition but simply because he enjoys helping the community.
Popplewell, current president of the Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce, also volunteers with the Cochrane Alliance Church where a group of volunteers have been fundraising for an expansion and renovation.
“We want to add a space that is affordable and available for non-profit businesses and organizations,” Popplewell said.
As previously reported by the Cochrane Eagle, $2.1 million has already been raised of the $4.2 million goal. Popplewell said he thinks the expansion will be a great addition to the community and will hopefully promote community events.
“My whole like has been working on many community projects,” Popplewell explained.
“If you have a growing community, and if people are not active or involved, nothing will happened. I want to be part of the solution.”
The 2016 award winner’s nomination was full of praise for the community volunteer.
“Bill is dependable, likeable, loyal, honest and realistic all served with a great deal of passion and enthusiasm,” the nomination read.
“He brings our Chamber a deep respect for the greater community and along the way has built stability within the business community in a harmonious way. People like Bill are the heartbeat of Cochrane, a place we call home.”
Popplewell was selected as Community Builder of the Year after being nominated by Cochrane residents and chosen by a selection committee.
