Diane Fleming has spent a quarter of a century making sure people have affordable healthy food to eat, and in turn her efforts aren't going unrecognized.

JCI Vernon has named Fleming its 2024 Good Citizen of the Year. 

Fleming is the program coordinator for The good Food Box and has been helping to run the food program for over 25 years. The Good Food Box helps provide fresh local produce to over 1,000 families in Vernon. 

"For all of her hard work, we would like to thank Diane on behalf of the citizens of Vernon," JCI Vernon said in a media release. 

In addition to the prestigious award, JCI Vernon will walk alongside Fleming at the upcoming Vernon Winter Carnival parade, with a vehicle being provided by Walkin Motors Ford.

Kidston Helm Ross Lawyers will also by making a $500 donation to the charity of Fleming's choice.

Fleming was nominated for the award by Caroline Meijer, coordinator of the Pregnancy Outreach Program at the North Okanagan Friendship Centre. 

"Diane has been involved with helping families and seniors with healthy eating most of her life," Meijer said. "She taught community kitchens in Vernon for years, teaching participants to cook healthy meals on a low budget. Diane always goes over and beyond her duty making sure people have access to fresh, local good quality B.C. produce."

To learn more about JCI Vernon visit .