A Port Moody entrepreneur and community volunteer will be recognized at a ceremony this winter for his dedication and selfless service.
Fred Soofi is one of 15 British Columbians to receive the Medal of Good Citizenship, according to a press release issued Monday (Dec. 5).
"It's an honour," said Soofi, who said he was happy to hear he had been selected for the medal.
In the press release, Premier David Eby stated that the medal winners embody "the traits of generosity, kindness and sacrifice for the benefit of others. Their actions touch so many lives, creating better communities throughout B.C. I commend each one of them.
"They are an example to all.”
Established in 2015, the medal acknowledges people's remarkable service to community life.
Immigrant from Iran
Soofi immigrated to Canada from Iran in 1972 and got his first job in the restaurant industry.
He is known for supporting many Tri-City charitable groups, often with food from his restaurant: Pasta Polo.
Now that Soofi is slowly tranferring ownership of the business to his staff in a gradual retirement, he says he continues to be involved.
Soofi sits on the board of a half dozen community organizations, including the Port Moody Seniors Club.
He's also planning to build seniors' housing with childcare in Port Moody and is fixing up a food truck that he hopes will help fund programs at the Port Moody Station Museum.
This past year, Soofi provided housing for a family from war-torn Ukraine for six months, helping them get settled and get connected with services.
Soofi said he enjoys being part of the community and taking an active intrest in what goes on around him.
"Being active in the community keeps you motivated, you get up in the morning and you have something to do," Soofi said.
His medal biography states that Soofi's dedication to serving others is a big focus of his life.
"Fred has incredible passion for his community and all its members. Many people care for others based on status, wealth, close connection — not Fred.
"He has been a volunteer, organizer and active member of Amnesty International for the past 45 years, where he is a constant campaigner for the release of prisioners of conscience and human rights for all people, which is a testament to his commitment to inclusion and compassion."
