Community champion recognized for lasting impact in Kindersley
By Joan Janzen
Joanne Kosolofski was awarded a Community Champion Award for Outstanding Volunteer by Rivers West District for Sport, Culture and Recreation. Bobbi Hebron, community development coordinator, presented Joanne with the award.
“After receiving several nominations across the district, Joanne was one of three champions chosen to be celebrated for Volunteer Appreciation Week,” Bobbi explained.
Joanne Kosolofski was presented with a Community Champion Award for Outstanding Volunteer by Bobbi Hebron, community development coordinator for Rivers West District for Sport, Culture and Recreation. Joanne’s nomination was submitted by Chelsea Omness. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
The nomination was submitted by Chelsea Omness, who described Joanne’s years of community contributions that have made a lasting impact in sport, culture and recreation.
As a lifelong resident of Kindersley, Joanne has supported virtually every minor sport in the community, contributed her time to the Kindersley & District Wellness Foundation, and played key roles on host committees for major events such as the Canada Cup, World Junior A Challenge, and provincial and national curling championships. She also served on multiple fundraising and building committees that helped develop and enhance Kindersley’s recreation facilities.
“However, her most remarkable contribution over the past decade has been the creation and growth of Pathway to Wellness,” Chelsea noted.
Pathway to Wellness was born after Joanne’s husband survived a “widow-maker” heart attack, requiring months of travel to Saskatoon for cardiac rehabilitation. Joanne soon realized not every family had the time and resources to travel for care and decided to act.
A simple walking group grew into a partnership with the Town of Kindersley, and fitness opportunities were introduced at the West Central Events Centre walking track. Eventually, the Saskatchewan Health Authority joined, allowing certified professionals to lead structured group fitness and cardiac rehabilitation-based programming.
Today, participants travel from Rosetown and Kerrobert to attend programming, which includes AquaFit at the Aquatic Centre and gentle chair stretch classes. The program also offers yoga, youth fitness, special needs programming, pickleball, skating, snowshoeing, one-on-one client sessions and monthly programming with Elizabeth School special needs students.
In 2024, the program was recognized by the Saskatchewan Health Authority as a cardiac rehabilitation centre, and in 2026, Pathway to Wellness is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
“Joanne’s impact extends far beyond volunteered hours,” Chelsea wrote. “She identifies needs, builds partnerships, inspires others to get involved, and creates sustainable programs that strengthen the entire community. Her compassion, resilience and leadership have shaped the recreation and wellness landscape in Kindersley in ways that will benefit generations to come.”
Bobbi Hebron agreed.
“Along with her incredible accomplishments highlighted in her nomination, we thank Joanne for allowing us to share her story. It stands as a true reminder of what can be accomplished when guided by a passion for change, a love of your community, the gift of time, strong partnerships and surrounding yourself with a great team of people,” she said.
The accolades continued as Bobbi added, “Every community and new idea needs a champion. Today we thank Joanne for inspiring us to find the gaps in our community and use our passion and time to make a difference in the lives of our family, friends and neighbours. We are excited to see what Joanne and her team will accomplish next.”
Joanne’s family, friends and business associates all recognize her as a true champion with a big heart for her community, and are pleased to see it made official as she accepts the Community Champion Award. Thanks for all you do, Joanne.