Province recognizes seniors for outstanding community service

Three northern Ontarians have received the Ontario Senior Achievement Award for outstanding community contributions after age 65. Lyndsay Aelick has more.

The Ontario government has recognized 22 seniors with the 2024 Ontario Senior Achievement Award for their exceptional contributions to communities across the province. Among the recipients are three northern Ontarians – Anne Taylor, Barb Jackson, and Jim Rook – whose decades of volunteerism and leadership have left lasting impacts.

The awards, announced June 25, celebrate individuals aged 65 and older who have dedicated their retirement years to improving the lives of others.

Lieutenant Governor praises recipients’ impact to their communities

In a news release, Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont commended the honourees: “I am delighted to have this opportunity to acknowledge the work of 22 impressive Ontario seniors who have done so much to uplift and support their communities. These awards recognize the wisdom, generosity, and positive impact of seniors in all aspects of daily life.”

The award, established in 1986, highlights seniors who have excelled in fields such as arts, education, emergency response, and social services.

Anne Taylor: A lifetime of volunteerism

Anne Taylor, a North Bay resident, has volunteered for over 20 years with organizations like the Nipissing Trackers, which provides free downhill skiing for children with disabilities.

“I schedule my months… the first week I have my power squadron… the second week, my ladies auxiliary… Wednesday I’m on the library board. Thursday I help out with scuba diving,” Taylor told CTV News.

Her work with the Davedi Club’s Ladies Auxiliary also celebrates her Italian heritage, and her efforts earned national recognition on CBC’s Mercer Report in 2018.

Barb Jackson: Champion for social services

Barb Jackson, another award recipient, has spent decades supporting organizations like United Way, March of Dimes, and Community Living Algoma.

“My career led me to social services… I’ve been thrilled working with handicapped people and seniors,” Jackson said. “I love the community I live in, and I like being part of it.”

A former Brownie leader and Sunday school teacher, Jackson has also advocated for seniors’ housing and doctor recruitment in her region.

Jim Rook: Emergency leadership in Killarney

Jim Rook, a longtime leader in the Municipality of Killarney, played a critical role during the 2018 Parry Sound wildfire as Community Emergency Management Coordinator.

He later helped develop the Killarney Community Wildfire Protection Plan and continues to support vulnerable residents through food baskets and vaccination clinics.

Growing need for volunteers

While celebrating the award winners, Marnie Lapierre of the United Way Volunteer Resource Centre highlighted a pressing issue:

“The need [for volunteers] has grown… There is a disconnect now with senior volunteers retiring from service. We have spots to fill, and it’s a challenge.”

Both Taylor and Jackson told CTV News that they hope their recognition inspires others to step forward.

Provincial recognition

The awards, established in 1986, celebrate seniors who enrich their communities through advocacy, arts, education, and social services.

“I am delighted to acknowledge the work of 22 impressive Ontario seniors who have done so much to uplift and support their communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont in a government release.

Raymond Cho, Ontario’s Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, praised recipients for “improving the lives of other seniors and building a stronger province.”

A full list of recipients is available on the Ontario government’s website.