Eleven Island residents will be honoured by Governor General David Johnston at a ceremony in Halifax tomorrow.

They will be part of a group of more than 70 Atlantic Canadians set to be recognized for "excellence, courage or exceptional dedication to service."

One will receive the Meritorious Service Medal and 10 will receive the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers.

Penny WalshMcGuire, M.S.M. of Charlottetown was the driving force and executive director of PEI 2014 Inc., a non-profit organization established to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the 1864 Charlottetown Conference and its important role in Canadian history. Her ability to mobilize partnerships led to a year of highly successful events throughout P.E.I., attracting Canadians from across the country to join in the celebrations.

Colleen Bannon of Kensington, P.E.I., is a strong supporter of the Heart and Stroke Foundation and represents the organization at health fairs across Prince Edward Island. As a volunteer and ambassador, she performs blood pressure checks and educates the public on cardiovascular health throughout the province.

Michelle Blanchard of Stratford, P.E.I., has been working to advance the arts and culture of Prince Edward Island's Francophone and Acadian community through Music PEI and the Fédération culturelle de l'Île-du-Prince-Édouard. Serving in executive positions with both organizations, she has helped preserve and nurture her culture in Atlantic Canada.

Richard Burns of Charlottetown has been a volunteer with Special Olympics Prince Edward Island for 17 years, and has served as a fundraiser, mentor, and coach for both floor hockey and bowling. He has also promoted personal development and growth through such organizations as Youth Bowl Canada, where he encourages athletes to reach their full potential.

Edmond Gallant of Mont-Carmel, P.E.I., alongside his wife, Zita, promoted French arts and culture with such organizations as the Coopérative de développement culturel et patrimonial de Mont-Carmel and Communities in Bloom. Through the years, he has brought together P.E.I.'s Francophone community and preserved French language and Acadian heritage.

Zita Gallant of Mont-Carmel, P.E.I., with her husband, Edmond, has long served the Francophones of Prince Edward Island by organizing concerts and arts and heritage events. As an executive and leader with several organizations, she has worked to preserve and promote French language and Acadian culture.

Sterling "Stu" MacFadyen of Charlottetown is committed to fostering youth development through sport. He has volunteered as a coordinator and coach for the Charlottetown Minor Baseball Association, and helps with both the Spud Minor and the Early Bird hockey tournaments. He is also a Beaver leader and an usher with Holy Redeemer Parish.

Donald McLeod of Vernon Bridge, P.E.I., has been canvassing for the Heart and Stroke Foundation for the past seven years, assisting with annual campaigns, distributing information about cardiovascular health and raising awareness. His dedication and ongoing commitment has advanced the foundation's mission of creating a healthier country.

Sarah Paynter of Kensington, P.E.I., after seeing the need for a swimming program, joined Special Olympics Prince Edward Island over 19 years ago to do just that, and she continues to serve as a mentor and coach, both locally and nationally. Respected by both the athletes and her fellow coaches, she continues to provide support and leadership.

Kaitlyn Reher of Charlottetown has for almost 10 years, been a leader and a teacher, committing herself to the well-being of others as a Scout leader, and with the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Her work has helped generate a sense of community, and she continues to bring people together by connecting with stakeholders.

William Whelan of Charlottetown has been involved with the Canadian Cancer Society for over 10 years, as well as the Prince Edward Island (PEI) Science Fair and the PEI Home and School Federation. He has promoted dialogue between individuals and expanded community involvement in the province.