Wilkie’s heart and soul: Clarke Jackson honoured as Citizen of the Year

“Oh, heavens no, I’m not a role model for anybody,” he said when asked about the impact of his work.

“I just hope that people realize how important volunteerism is in a small community. If we don’t have people joining clubs, helping, and coming out to support events, we won’t have a community.”

Clarke Jackson tells battlefordsNOW why he feels proud of being recognized as 2024 Citizen of the Year. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Born and raised in Scott, about a 10-minute drive from Wilkie, Jackson has been an integral part of the town for nearly 50 years. His involvement spans multiple organizations, from town council to the Elks Lodge, and his commitment to improving Wilkie has never wavered.

Whether spearheading community projects—such as the swimming pool expected to open in July—or supporting local events, Jackson finds joy in giving back.

“The one that I’m going to feel the most proud of is the one that hasn’t come up yet,” he said, referring to the upcoming pool project. “It keeps you trying to achieve more and do more.”

He believes it’s not just about the work—it’s about camaraderie. The friendships he has built through volunteering, especially within the Elks, have been a driving force behind his continued service.

“We are a small club, and the reason that we survive is because of the fun we have,” he said with a laugh. “If you don’t have fun when you’re doing what you’re doing, you’re not going to do it.”

Wilkie councillor Les Henderson (right) presents the 2024 Citizen of the Year award to Clarke Jackson at the Saskcan Community Centre in Wilkie on March 1, 2025. Henderson says Jackson is well-known in the community and his recognition is well-earned. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW)

Town councillor Les Henderson, who has worked with Jackson, said the award is well-earned.

“He’s well known, and he does his best for everything he’s involved in,” Henderson said. “It’s nice to see that.”

The Citizen of the Year award not only honours individuals like Jackson but also serves as a reminder of the vital role volunteers play in keeping small towns like Wilkie thriving.

“Small communities like this are the backbone of our country,” Jackson said.

Recognizing the next generation

Alongside Jackson, Wilkie is also celebrating the next generation of community leaders.

Odin Kent, a Grade 12 student at McLurg High School, has been named 2024 Junior Citizen of the Year. A dedicated wrestler with an impressive win-loss record, he has won multiple provincial medals.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Kent is known for his kindness, leadership, and unwavering support for his teammates, said Wilkie recreation director Lori Fenrich.

McLurg’s Odin Kent (left) has his hand raised after a win over Swift Current’s Aiden Jahnke in the gold medal final of the Elite Male 82kg weight class. (Photo submitted/Chris Kent)

As a member of Charity in Action, Fenrich said Kent works to spread positivity and ensure that everyone feels valued and included.

“His big heart has a huge impact, and he truly cares about everyone around him,” she noted.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com

by Kenneth Cheung

Wilkie’s heart and soul: Clarke Jackson honoured as Citizen of the Year

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