For immediate release
Langley City, B.C. – On Wednesday, May 7, Langley City proudly hosted its first-ever Volunteer Appreciation Night at Council Chambers, honouring its dedicated Langley City Emergency Program ESS Volunteer Responders who play a vital role in community safety in Langley City. These ESS Volunteer Responders educate the public on emergency preparedness and step in during emergencies to support evacuees.
The event brought together Mayor and Council, the Langley City Emergency Program employees, and ESS Volunteer Responders to celebrate a year of service, compassion, and commitment.
“ESS volunteers are the heart of our emergency response,” said Mayor Pachal. “They show up when our community needs them most, and this evening was about showing up for them.”
The evening featured awards recognizing the outstanding contributions of our volunteers throughout 2024—the first full year of the program.
One of the evening’s highlights was the recognition of Debbie Malish, a cornerstone of emergency support in Langley for over 20 years. Debbie received the Provincial Emergency Management pin for 20 years of service, along with three Langley City Emergency Program awards: Service Above and Beyond, Dedication and Commitment, and an Award of Appreciation for her exceptional service in 2024.
“Debbie’s leadership, warmth, and tireless dedication continues to shape our program and inspire others,” said Melanie LaPointe, Emergency Management Program Advisor for the City, “She embodies the spirit of community resilience.”
This event, held during Emergency Preparedness week, marks the beginning of an important tradition to annually recognize the volunteers who help keep Langley City safe, informed, and supported during emergencies.
Langley City residents benefit directly from the work of these volunteers — whether through emergency response, preparedness education, or community outreach.
Get Involved
Looking to make a difference in your community? Become a Langley City Emergency Program ESS Volunteer Responder.
Visit LangleyCity.ca/ESS to learn more.
Media contact:
Ram Chungh
Manager of Communications
604.240.3101
rchungh@langleycity.ca