From left: Charles Baillargon, Kurtis Kopp, Jackie Etcheverry, Robert Mercer and Tracy Clarke pose with their King Charles III Coronation Medals during a ceremony hosted by the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre on Monday, June 24, 2025, in North Battleford. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)
KING CHARLES III CORONATION MEDAL

Feeding their community earns national medals for Battlefords volunteers

Jun 25, 2025 | 2:25 PM

Five longtime volunteers with the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre have been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal — a national honour recognizing their dedication to helping others and fighting food insecurity in their community.

The medals were handed out Monday night to Charles Baillargon, Kurtis Kopp, Jackie Etcheverry, Robert Mercer and Tracy Clarke at Riverside Blend Restaurant in North Battleford.

They were nominated by Food Banks of Saskatchewan and Food Banks Canada under the category of community service and philanthropy.

Michael Kincade, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan, said the recognition highlights a kind of selfless work that often goes unnoticed.

“These medals aren’t given out very often,” Kincade said.

“Every volunteer that comes out to a food bank or works at a food bank doesn’t do it for the pat on the back or a thank you because we don’t get it, we very rarely get it…we know it’s the right thing to do, so it’s nice to get together and be appreciated once in a while.”

The Coronation Medal celebrates the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III as the King of Canada. Every year, 30,000 medals are awarded, all of which are managed by the Chancellery of Honours at Rideau Hall.

A garden that feeds hundreds

Charles Baillargon was recognized for donating thousands of pounds of fresh vegetables from his garden each year — a contribution that helps stock the food bank’s hampers.

“His garden has truly become an extension of our food bank shelves,” said executive director Erin Katerynych. “You have truly helped us grow, literally and figuratively.”

Baillargon credited friend Trudy Iverson and “that wonderful patch of black soil on her acreage” for making it all possible.

“This medal is for everybody that likes to give back ,” he told the crowd.

From left: Charles Baillargon; Erin Katerynych, executive director of the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre; and Michael Kincade, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Always showing up

Kurtis Kopp, an artist and drummer, was honoured for his creative spirit and reliability — whether that means painting the food bank’s windows or helping with deliveries.

“Your creativity, your kindness, your willingness to jump in whenever you’re needed — it all makes our food bank stronger, more vibrant and more connected,” said Katerynych.

In his speech, Kopp reflected on what it means to simply show up.

“I’m not here because I did something extraordinary, by any means. But I’m here because I didn’t flake,” he said. “I kept showing up, and even when it was hard, especially then.”

From left: Kurtis Kopp and Michael Kincade, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan.

A kind face at the door

Jackie Etcheverry, a retired teacher, is often the first face clients see when they enter the centre.

“Her kindness puts people at ease in moments that can sometimes be overwhelming,” said Katerynych.

Etcheverry also runs the baby area, making sure young families receive essentials with care and dignity.

“Your gentle leadership has helped build the caring community that we’re so proud of today,” said Katerynych.

From left: Jackie Etcheverry; Erin Katerynych, executive director of the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre; and Michael Kincade, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan.

Behind the scenes

Robert (Bob) Mercer was recognized for wearing many hats — as a volunteer driver, handyman and tax preparer.

“Bob has been a steady, dependable driver behind our food bank truck…Bob is our go-to handyman, fixing up a lot of stuff around the food bank and keeping the place running with patience and skill,” Katerynych said.

“Bob, we are so grateful for you…your hard work, reliability, generosity and thoughtful leadership have made a lasting difference.”

Mercer also shared a message he once heard from a client: “They would keep coming back to the food bank because they were treated with respect.”

From left: Robert Mercer; Erin Katerynych, executive director of the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre; and Michael Kincade, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan.

Nearly 20 years of dedication

Tracy Clarke is the food bank’s longest-serving volunteer. She’s been helping for nearly two decades and now sits as the secretary on the organization’s board.

“She has spent years educating her own school and other schools about who we are, what we do and why food security matters, helping to inspire the next generation of community leaders,” said Katerynych.

“Tracy, we are so thankful for you. Your years of service, your steadfast support, your passion for building a stronger, more compassionate community and it’s truly extraordinary.”

As the ceremony closed, Katerynych offered a final message to all volunteers in the room.

“You are neighbours. You are community builders. You are the heartbeat of our food bank family,” she said. “So let’s keep going. Let’s keep growing.”

From left: Tracy Clarke; Erin Katerynych, executive director of the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre; and Michael Kincade, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan.

Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com

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