Marlene was given the Abbeyfield Champion award by Alberni Valley Society board president Dave Cowan on behalf of Abbeyfield Canada. Marlene and Phil were involved in the start up and refurbishing of the old Port Alberni Hospital’s extended care wing into a 20-room Abbeyfield House at 3839 8th Ave. in 2001 to 2002. They worked with other volunteers to open the House and welcome the first residents in August 2003.

Marlene joined the House’s board of directors, and Phil was invaluable in helping with House maintenance and repairs for years. At various times, Marlene served as the board’s president and secretary-treasurer, and for many years, has been treasurer of the B.C. Abbeyfield Chapter and was involved in the B.C. Abbeyfield Trust. She retired from the Port Alberni House board in 2021.