The Meridian Community Centre was filled with local volunteers who were recognized on November 22, 2023, at the annual Volunteer Appreciation event.

The evening included a keynote presentation from Vicki Keith, who shared her stories about fundraising more than $1 million through marathon swims across the Great Lakes and other international waterways. Keith highlighted how volunteers create opportunities and experiences that enrich the lives of those around them.

“Without the passion and dedication of volunteers, the Town of Pelham would not be such a wonderful place to call home,” said John Wink, Deputy Mayor and Master of Ceremonies for the event. “Volunteers are truly the element that creates a caring community in Pelham.”

Over 140 individuals were recognized through nominations from service clubs, volunteer groups, sports organizations and committees. In addition, each organization submitted a Peer Award nomination for someone who has provided exceptional service in their volunteer role. As part of the award ceremony, Town of Pelham councillors spoke about each of the 19 peers and one corporate recognition nominee, sharing highlights of each volunteer’s contributions.

Peer award recipients received a unique handmade pen from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation that is crafted by local woodturner Marv Ens utilizing 100% pruned wood from the Comfort Maple. Recipients included Lynn Reynolds, Pelham Seniors Advisory Committee; Patrick O’Hara, Pelham Seniors Advisory Committee; Lynn Bowman, Niagara Centre Skating Club; Jim Jenter, Kinsmen Club of Fonthill & District; Nicole Birrell, Pelham Soccer Club; Evelynn Roberts, Pelham Lionettes; Heidi Tebrake, Pelham Art Festival; Jill Primeau, Pelham Summerfest Working Group; Tim Vanderweide, Fenwick Volunteer Firefighter Association; Melissa Wells, Pelham Minor Baseball Association; Paul Slattery, Fabulous Fenwick Lion’s Club; Jeanette Dempster, Pelham Horticultural Society; Brian Baty, Pelham Active Transportation Committee; Byron Sinclair, Pelham Minor Hockey Association; Kent Ratcliffe, 3rd Fonthill Scouting Group; Barbara Sabucco, Pelham Senior VIP Program; Mike Jones, Pelham Advocates for Trees and Habitats; Scott Kenyon, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 613; Nancy Yungblut, Pelham Cares; and Sons & Daughters Winery who received the peer nominated Corporate recognition award.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities in Pelham at www.pelham.ca/volunteer

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Photo Credit: Rotary Club of Fonthill Volunteers