On November 28th, 2001, Barbara O'keefe was presented with the Newfoundland and Labrador Volunteer Medal, by the Honourable A. M. House, Lieutenant-Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Barbara O'keefe came to Stephenville Crossing from England as a war bride and she has been a volunteer for more than half a century.

She has held executive positions with the Lioness Club and the Cancer Society. She has served her community on the library board and the town council and has promoted women's health issues.

Her major contribution has been with the Society for the Care and Protection of Animals, of which she is currently president. She was the driving force behind construction of a new animal shelter obtaining land and funding. If you would like to learn more about Barbara and her passion for animals, you can check out the