Jim Alix, a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Sun Peaks, was awarded one of rotary’s highest honours, the Paul Harris Fellowship. The award recognizes individuals who exemplify rotary’s guiding principle of “service above self” through exceptional commitment to their community.
Co-president Julie Kimmel highlighted both his dedication and character.
“Jim is just a good human,” Kimmel said. “I think Jim is the kind of person that if you were in a bind, he’d be the first person you’d call.”
Alix’s connection to Sun Peaks spans decades. He moved to Kamloops in 2004, relocated to Sun Peaks in 2007, retired in 2010 and joined rotary in 2017. Since then, he has become one of the club’s most dependable and quietly influential members.
Currently serving as sergeant-at-arms, Alix plays a key behind-the-scenes role in ensuring meetings run smoothly. He is responsible for welcoming members, setting up technical equipment and supporting the club’s operations. He also serves as chair of the membership committee, where he helps onboard new members and ensures they feel welcomed and connected.
“Without him, I don’t know what we would do,” Kimmel said. “He’s involved in everything. Even though we have many important titles within the club, Jim is someone we rely on whenever anything needs to get done.”
In addition to his rotary roles, Alix is known throughout the village for his volunteer work in various areas of the community, including at the Sun Peaks Bottle Depot. While he describes himself as “not the most social person,” those who see him regularly know him for his consistency and kindness.
“All I do is say hi,” Alix said.
Reflecting on receiving the Paul Harris Fellowship, Alix said he was both surprised and grateful.
“It’s rewarding. I didn’t expect to get it,” Alix said. “It’s about helping people, selflessly. That’s what rotary is about, giving back to the community.”
The Paul Harris Fellowship can be awarded either through cumulative financial contributions to rotary or through recognition of service that truly embodies rotary’s values. In Alix’s case, the award was presented in recognition of his long-standing commitment and the impact he has had within the Sun Peaks community.
“I think if you asked anyone in the village who deserves an award for service above self, Jim would be the answer,” Kimmel said.
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