SASKATOON (December 31, 2017) – CTV Saskatoon announced today that Hugo Alvarado is the recipient of the 2017 Saskatoon Citizen of the Year Award. Jeff Bollenbach, General Manager, Manitoba/Saskatchewan, Radio and Television, Bell Media, made the announcement on this evening’s edition of CTV NEWS AT SIX. Mr. Alvarado will receive the award at a reception in early 2018.

“Hugo is an artist who looks at the world through charitable eyes,” said Bollenbach.  “For decades, Hugo’s persistent vision to strengthen the community through art has helped fund countless valuable programs in Saskatoon.”

Alvarado is the co-founder of Artists Against Hunger, a group of artists who have organized a multitude of auction fundraisers over the course of 25 years featuring their original artwork. Their efforts have benefited numerous community organizations, including: the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre, the Saskatoon Crisis Nursery, Friendship Inn, and CHEP Good Food. In addition, Alvarado’s generous donations of his paintings and his time have benefited the fundraising efforts of Persephone Theatre, Boys & Girls Clubs of Saskatoon, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan, and CFCR 90.5 FM Saskatoon Community Radio.

The Saskatoon Citizen of the Year Award presented by CTV is an annual tradition now in its 51^st year. Each November, CTV Saskatoon accepts nominations from viewers for the Saskatoon Citizen of the Year Award, and at the end of December, presents the award to an individual who exemplifies excellence in community service.