Brock honours community champions at second annual Awards of Merit

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: For decades, they have been preserving Brock’s history, tending its gardens, feeding neighbours, coaching young athletes, and opening doors to the performing arts.

On Wednesday, September 23rd, seven individuals and organizations were recognized for that spirit of service, during the second annual Brock Township Awards of Merit ceremony.

Mayor Mike Jubb called the evening a celebration of the people who help make the community what it is.

“What a spectacular evening, at our second Annual Brock Township Awards of Merit Event, in Cannington,” Mayor Jubb told The Standard. “Congratulations to all the well-deserved recipients. Another fantastic opportunity to acknowledge the amazing, hard-working folks who make the [things] happen in Brock.”

Councillor Peter Frank presented the Arts, Heritage and Culture Award to the Beaverton Thorah Eldon Historical Society, recognizing 50 years of preserving and celebrating local history, through its collections, historic buildings, educational programs, and community events.

The Environment and Climate Change Champion Award, presented by Councillor Ron Hodgson, went to the Cannington Horticultural Society. For more than 50 years, the society has enhanced Brock’s public spaces through gardens and pollinator-friendly plantings, while promoting environmental stewardship, through initiatives such as Seedy Sunday and educational programs.

Councillor Lynn Campbell presented the Community Services Group or Club Award to the Sunderland Lions Club, for decades of service: supporting local infrastructure, youth, health initiatives, scholarships, charitable programs, and community projects, including its contribution to the Sunderland Arena.

The Social Development Award, presented by Councillor Claire Doble, went to Candace Dove, for more than 25 years of service with the Brock Township Food Bank. Ms. Dove, who has served as director for eight years, has helped lead food distribution, volunteer coordination, holiday hampers, and community outreach.

Regional Councillor Cria Pettingill presented the Sports and Recreation Award to the Brock Rugby Club. Founded in 1978, the club has provided opportunities for athletes of all ages and built one of Ontario’s largest youth rugby programs, while promoting teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Councillor Angela Canavan presented the Brock Accessibility Award to the Beaverton Town Hall Players, for their efforts to create an inclusive environment, through accessible facilities, accommodations, and programs which help people of all abilities participate in the performing arts.

Councillor Canavan also presented the Volunteer of the Year Award to Katie Probst, recognizing more than 45 years of volunteer service in Brock. Ms. Probst has supported organizations and initiatives, including: Community Care Durham, the Brock Community Health Centre, Big Brothers Big Sisters, food security, youth programs, and environmental causes. She continues to volunteer through senior reassurance calls, an intergenerational pen pal program, and local charitable initiatives.

The ceremony highlighted the breadth of volunteerism across Brock and the many residents and organizations working behind the scenes to support their neighbours and strengthen the community.