Community leaders and volunteers honoured at Brock appreciation event

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: The spirit of community service was front and centre, at the Beaverton Legion, on Thursday, April 30th, as local volunteers were recognized for their years of dedication to boards, committees and community organizations which help shape life across Brock.

Hosted by council, the Township of Brock’s Volunteer Appreciation Night celebrated residents who have spent the past four years, and in many cases far longer, lending their time, expertise and passion to municipal committees and community initiatives.

Mayor Mike Jubb said, the evening was an important opportunity to recognize people whose work often happens quietly behind the scenes but has a major impact on the community.

“These volunteers give their time because they genuinely care about Brock and the people who live here,” said Mayor Jubb. “Whether they are supporting accessibility, tourism, local business, libraries, agriculture or community spaces, their contributions help council make informed decisions and strengthen our municipality in meaningful ways.”

The event acknowledged volunteers appointed during the 2022 term to a wide range of advisory committees, boards and working groups. Many of those recognized have served for well over a decade while also volunteering with numerous other local organizations.

“Volunteerism is the backbone of small communities like ours,” Mayor Jubb added. “The people we honoured tonight continue to make Brock a welcoming, vibrant and connected place to live.”

Among the groups recognized was the Brock Accessibility Advisory Committee which advocates for residents with disabilities and helps ensure the municipality complies with provincial accessibility legislation.

The Non-Profit Sector Advisory Committee was also highlighted, for helping strengthen relationships between the municipality and community organizations, while the Brock Tourism Advisory Committee and Tourism Working Group were praised for their role in shaping Brock’s recently adopted Visitor Growth Plan.

The plan is expected to help guide municipal tourism priorities, between 2026 and 2029.

“Our tourism volunteers helped identify what makes Brock special and where we can continue to grow,” said Mayor Jubb. “That kind of local insight is invaluable.” Other groups honoured included: the Brock Board of Trade, Brock Public Library Board, the Manilla Hall Community Association, the former Wilfrid Hall Community Association, the Sunderland Town Hall Ad-hoc Liaison Committee, the municipal Livestock Valuers and the Committee of Adjustment.

Council members noted, the volunteers’ efforts touch nearly every aspect of community life, from preserving historic buildings and supporting farmers to improving public services and organizing local events.

The evening concluded with a message of appreciation, from council and staff, thanking volunteers for the time, energy and experience they contribute to the municipality.

“The impact these individuals make lasts far beyond meetings and reports,” added Mayor Jubb. “They help build stronger communities and create opportunities for future generations. Brock is fortunate to have so many people willing to step forward and serve.”