2025 Inverness County Volunteers of the Year

August 19, 2025

Volunteers are truly the heart of our communities, and each year communities across Canada come together to celebrate National Volunteer Week. This year, National Volunteer Week took place April 27 to May 3, 2025.

In recognition of this week, the Municipality of the County of Inverness launched its 2025 Volunteer Recognition Program, where community members are invited to nominate local volunteers who make a difference. Nominees are then recognized for their invaluable contributions with a certificate of recognition and a gift certificate from a local Municipality of Inverness County business of their choice.

This year, community groups and individuals throughout Inverness County nominated 38 people! Read on to learn more about the incredible volunteer efforts of this year’s nominees.

Kate Beaton

Chestico Museum & Historical Society

The Chestico Museum & Historical Society (CMHS) is proud to nominate Kate Beaton as our 2025 volunteer of the year. Besides being treasurer of CMHS, Kate is always there to lend a helping hand with our events and special projects.

Kate is also the chair of the Inverness Manor Ladies Auxiliary, a board member for Inverness County Home Care as well as an active member of St. Peter’s Parish CWL. Whether working as part of an organization or personally reaching out when she sees a need in the community, Kate is always ready and willing to pitch in and help.

Congratulations Kate!

Leo Beaton

Mabou Rivers Trails

Mabou Rivers Trails is pleased to announce Leo Beaton as our volunteer of the year. Leo recently retired from the oil industry and now resides part time in New Glasgow and his home turf in Mabou.

Due to the varied chores associated with the maintenance of our 20km section of the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, we are fortunate that Leo gives freely of his time and expertise. Trail maintenance involves a myriad of different skills and trades to ensure our trail users get the best possible opportunity to enjoy our great outdoors.

We all hope Leo enjoys his much-earned retirement and continues to find time away from his part time work to assist his crewmates throughout the seasons. Good luck with your retirement Leo and we appreciate your volunteer spirit.

Linda Beaton

St Peter’s Parish CWL, Port Hood

The CWL of St. Peter’s Parish Port Hood is pleased to nominate Linda Beaton as our volunteer of the year.

Linda’s contribution to our parish and community exemplifies the spirit of service and commitment to giving generously of her time, energy and dedication. Linda does not hesitate when asked to help and does it all with kindness, caring, and guidance.

As a retired educator, parent, and active supporter of children, she continues to be a voice for ensuring their best guidance and mentorship will be available. Linda’s compassion and sympathy extends to families and friends during times of unexpected loss, and she responds with genuine support and assistance at a time of need.

As a neighbor and friend, Linda can always be counted upon. She is a valuable member of the CWL, and we are happy to recognize and celebrate all she does for our parish and community.

Congratulations, Linda!

Darlene Boudreau

Sacred Heart Community Health Centre Auxiliary

The Sacred Heart Community Health Centre Auxiliary is happy to nominate Darlene Boudreau as their 2025 volunteer of the year!

Darlene has been a very active and devoted member of the Sacred Heart Community Health Centre Auxiliary for over a decade. She always attends monthly meetings and participates in the Eastern Region’s Annual General Meetings.

Hospital Auxiliary members dedicate many volunteer hours to help raise funds to purchase equipment and other medical articles for the hospital. In Chéticamp, the auxiliary also focuses on Foyer Père Fiset, the Dialysis & Occupational Therapy Departments as well as the Hospital Equipment Loan Program.

Events and activities organized by the Sacred Heart Community Health Centre Auxiliary are always well planned thanks to Darlene. She reserves facilities, calls volunteers to arrange for baked goods, helping hands, and much more. Darlene purchases and supplies hospital patient rooms with toiletries, and she also kindly distributes cards from the auxiliary to the sick, those in need of surgery and to those who have had a death in the family.

Darlene will also be representing Inverness County at the 51st Annual Provincial Volunteers Awards Celebration in September. Thank you, Darlene, for your kindness, dedication and positive impact on your community. Congratulations!

Jacqueline Boyd

Glendale and Area Community Cooperative Ltd.

The Glendale and Area Community Cooperative Ltd/Fr. John A. Rankin Cultural Centre is happy to nominate Jacqueline Boyd as our volunteer of the year.

Jacqueline is a dependable volunteer who donates her time and effort with the annual outdoor Kitchen Fest concert which is held in July. She helps with the preparations for the concert such as cleaning and painting the stage and working the gate. Jacqueline is also a volunteer for our haunted house cast and she is also helpful in applying for funding for our community. Jacqueline is an all- around community volunteer, serving also on the parish committee and Glendale community hall committee.

Jacqueline is an asset to our wonderful little community of Glendale, and we thank her for all she does! Congratulations!

Jack Brideau

Celtic Shores Coastal Trail

If you’ve spent any time on our trail, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with that guy, the one who always seems to be in the right place at the right time, ready with a helping hand and a warm smile. That’s Jack Brideau. He’s the kind of volunteer every community dreams of – dependable, friendly and deeply passionate about the outdoors.

Whether he’s clearing branches after a storm, offering directions to a lost hiker, or sharing a story about the land, Jack brings heart and hospitality to everything he does. He’s the kind of person you hope visitors meet because you know they’ll walk away feeling not just welcomed but connected.

We’re lucky to have him on the trail, and even luckier to call him part of our team. Thank you, Jack, for your many years of dedicated service!

Marie Brideau

Judique Community Centre

The Judique Community Centre is delighted to nominate Marie Brideau as their volunteer of the year.

Marie, you’ve made a real difference at the Judique Community Centre. Your smiling face is always a warm welcome when you volunteer at events – fish dinners, special event dinners, teas and so much more. Every holiday you treat us with some of your delicious homemade chocolates that we all love so much! You’ve inspired us with your willingness to help, not only with our organization but the entire community. We are so fortunate to have you.

Thank you, Marie!

Bernard Cameron

Comunn Gàidhlig agus Eachdraidh Mhàbu / Mabou Gaelic and Historical Society

Comunn Gàidhlig agus Eachdraidh Mhàbu / Mabou Gaelic and Historical Society is proud to recognize Bernard Cameron as our 2025 volunteer of the year.

Born and raised in Northeast Mabou, Bernard learned Gaelic both at home from his Gaelic- speaking parents and in school. He dedicated many years to teaching the language in the public school system, most recently at Bayview Education Centre, before retiring. In addition to his work in schools, Bernard has long been a dedicated teacher of community Gaelic classes and has played a key role in expanding our local class offerings.

A long-time supporter of Comunn Gàidhlig is Eachdraidh Mhàbu, Bernard has been generous with his time and talents, whether serving on the committee or simply lending a hand when needed. He is also a devoted member of Còisir an Eilein and is always ready to help with ceilidhs, from setup to teardown. Currently, he leads our maintenance committee, overseeing essential upgrades and upkeep at An Drochaid.

We at Commun Gàidhlig is Eachdraidh Mhàbu/ Mabou Gaelic and Historical Society are indebted to him for his contributions. Congratulations, Bernard!

Jeanette Cameron

Margaree Food Security Society

The Margaree Food Security Society is pleased to nominate our treasurer, Jeanette Cameron, as our volunteer of the year.

Jeanette works diligently to keep our account up to date; she manages the purchasing of gift cards with flawless bookkeeping skills. Her attention to detail and commitment to searching for, and completing, grant applications is phenomenal. Jeanette personifies our society’s commitment to protecting the dignity and privacy of our clients. She has taken on this role with an exemplary level of professionalism and empathy.

In addition to our society, Jeanette volunteers as a Margaree Meals on Wheels delivery person and enjoys working with her fellow community members at dinners and events at both St. Michael’s Hall in Margaree and the Belle Côte Community Centre.

Thank you, Jeanette, from your grateful community!

John Campbell

Port Hood Area Development

Port Hood Area Development is pleased to recognize John Campbell as their volunteer of the year for 2025.

John has been a valued member of Port Hood Area Development since 2018. He is always ready to pitch in wherever he is needed and lends his expertise in carpentry and art in many of our projects. He has contributed many hours in decorating our Central Park at Christmas time.

Port Hood Area Development is fortunate to have John as a member, and we are pleased to select him as our volunteer of the year. Congratulations, John!

Carmen DeGruchy

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Whycocomagh

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Whycocomagh is proud to recognize Carmen DeGruchy as their 2025 volunteer of the year.

Carmen joined St. Andrew’s Church in 2021 and since that time he has been a regular attendee at church services, a volunteer at all church events, a member of the Board of Managers and Ways and Means Committee, a choir member, a driving force behind St. Andrew’s float in the “Christmas in the Village” Parade and sound man for the outdoor summer worship services.

St. Andrew’s Session and congregation sincerely thank and appreciate all of Carmen’s volunteer efforts. Congratulations!

Donna Ferguson

Glencoe Station Recreation Association

Glencoe Station Recreation Centre is proud to nominate Donna Ferguson as their 2025 volunteer of the year.

Donna, with her pleasant personality, is always the first to offer her time. She is helpful with graphic design, creating games for the children’s Christmas party, working at dances and taking her turn faithfully at the annual Hunters Breakfast. Donna recently served a term as secretary on our Board of Directors and did an exceptional job.

We are fortunate to have Donna as an active member of our community organization, and we thank her for her time and kindness. Congratulations, Donna!

Deborah Graham

Storytellers Gallery

The Storytellers Gallery in Judique is proud to nominate Deborah Graham as our volunteer of the year.

Debbie is the president of the Gallery Board of Directors, and as such is invaluable to our organization. She spends countless hours working on fundraising, Tea and Toast on Wednesdays and many other activities. She does all this with a smile!

Thank you, Deborah for all you do. Congratulations!

David Greenwell

Mabou & District Community Development Association

Mabou & District Community Development Association (MDCDA) is very pleased to nominate David Greenwell as our community volunteer of the year.

MDCDA is especially grateful to David for his contribution to our organization serving two multi- year terms on the board of directors – first in 2012 to 2017 as a director and then as chair. During this time, David used his very significant leadership skills to keep Mabou Development alive, managing to recruit volunteers and maintain community initiatives.

Now in his second term with MDCDA, David serves on the executive as secretary. He is a master at minutes and communication while keeping our meetings organized. David also participates and leads numerous initiatives.

David’s volunteer contribution does not stop at MDCDA. He has been treasurer of Strathspey Performing Arts Centre (2010/2011), and a director of Design & Construction Institute of Nova Scotia (2018-2022). Since 2018 he has been registrar of Nova Scotia Home Designers Association and from 2020 to 2024 director and 2nd VP of the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce.

David has also lent significant help to Mabou Rivers Trail, Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, Celtic Colours International Festival, Hillsborough/ Glendyer Community Association and West Mabou Hall.

David, you have touched a lot of organizations with your time and talent. We commend you and thank you!

Adele LeBlanc

Margaree Highland Games

Adele LeBlanc has been one of the founding members of the Margaree Highland Games since 2012. Her dedication to the games as well as her selfless contributions of time, energy and spirit continue to be instrumental in the success of our event. The Board of Directors of the Margaree Highland Games feel that Adele embodies the true definition of volunteerism, and we are very fortunate to have her as part of our team.

Adele also volunteers as the lead organizer of the Margaree Forks Terry Fox Run and she is a member of the Acadian Credit Union Board of Directors. She was also involved in reviving children’s involvement at St. Michael’s Parish last year. When Adele is not busy volunteering in these many capacities, you can be sure to spot her providing general support at her family farm.

Congratulations, Adele!

Lester LeBlanc

Malagawatch Cemetery Association

The Malagawatch Cemetery Association is happy to nominate Lester LeBlanc as their volunteer of the year for 2025.

Lester can be counted on to assist with repairing graves, restoring headstones, and doing general maintenance on the cemetery grounds. He looks after our flagpole and Canadian flag and our mailbox, ensuring they are repaired, replaced and stored in the winter season.

Families appreciate Lester’s work for the benefit of the cemetery and the community. Congratulations!

Julie Lovely

Cranton Cross Roads Community Centre

Cranton Cross Roads Community Centre is proud to acknowledge Julie Lovely for her outstanding dedication, leadership, and vision. Julie has been the driving force behind transforming our community center into a designated comfort centre for times of emergency and need. Her efforts have gone far beyond the call of duty, showcasing her commitment to the well-being and safety of our entire community.

Julie spearheaded significant upgrades to our heating and electrical systems, ensuring that the centre is equipped to serve residents during power outages, extreme weather, or other crises. Her hands-on involvement, from advocating for necessary improvements to coordinating contactors and securing support, has made a lasting impact.

Thanks to her tireless work, our community now has a safe, warm, and reliable space to gather when it matters most. Julie’s initiative exemplifies the spirit of community service, and we believe she is truly deserving of this recognition.

Donald MacCuspic

Creignish Recreation Centre

Creignish Recreation Centre is happy to recognize Donald MacCuspic for his incredible dedication to our community. As a member of the Creignish Recreation Centre board of directors, he carefully manages our finances and always helps behind the scenes. He’s the first to step in when something needs to be done, from filling out grant applications to overseeing summer students. His leadership and hard work were essential in planning and building the community playground. He’s a reliable and generous volunteer, often the last to leave the hall after Friday night happy hour. Our community is better because of his ongoing commitment and support.

Congratulations, Donald!

Eleanor MacDonald

Mill Road Social Enterprises

Mill Road Social Enterprises is proud to recognize and honour Eleanor Macdonald for the many years of dedicated service she has given to the organization. Eleanor was a member of the volunteer Board of Directors for 38 years, as director at large, secretary, vice president, and president. She participated in functions from fundraising to celebrations and helped us grow and develop as an organization. With a well grounded and calm nature, Eleanor would often be the voice of reason. In 2024, Eleanor decided to retire from the Board of Directors, but she remains a close friend of Mill Road Social Enterprises.

We appreciate all you have done, Eleanor. Congratulations!

Glen MacDonald

St Mary of the Angels Community Hall

St. Mary of the Angels Community Hall is happy to recognize Glen MacDonald as their volunteer of the year.

Glen came to Glendale full-time in 2020 after his well-deserved retirement, thankfully for us! He picked up projects around the community almost immediately. He took on the job of painting the St. Margaret of Scotland Church on River Denys Mountain, painstakingly scraping and painting it, many, many, many days doing it solo! Glen then joined our hall committee with perfect timing – seeing we needed help! He came onboard at the beginning of our kitchen renovation and was instrumental in both the demolition and makeover. Glen is a steady-eddy, active in all aspects of the hall committee and always very willing to lend a helping hand with anything.

Thank you, Glen, for all your efforts. Congratulations!

Theresa MacDonald

L’Arche Cape Breton

Theresa MacDonald is one of L’Arche Cape Breton’s most passionate and dedicated volunteers. As branch manager at the Mabou and Port Hood branches of East Coast Credit Union, she has championed our partnership with the credit union which began in 2005. Theresa takes the time to know our core members personally and we always look forward to her visits. She spearheaded Chowder Challenge, now our largest annual fundraiser, devoting countless hours to its success year after year.

Through her friendship and unwavering commitment, Theresa has made a lasting impact on L’Arche Cape Breton. Congratulations, Theresa!

Donna MacFarlane

Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital Auxiliary

The Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is happy to nominate Donna MacFarlane as our 2025 volunteer of the year for her ongoing efforts to support community health care services in our area.

Donna has made a positive contribution to the work of the auxiliary in recent years, both as a skilled crafter and as an active participant in planning the auxiliary’s Tea and Sale events each May and November. Whether it is sharing her talents for these seasonal fundraisers or designing delightful crafts for auxiliary raffles, Donna is always willing to lend a creative hand.

With a background in nursing, and now retired, Donna is also active in her home community of Southwest Margaree.

Congratulations, Donna!

Ben MacKay

Inverness Historical Society

The Inverness Historical Society is proud to nominate Ben MacKay as our volunteer of the year.

Ben is a very active member of his community, volunteering with the United Church, the Arts Center, the Ned MacDonald Volunteer Community Award Chair, as well as a member of the Miners Museum Board of Directors.

Ben graduated from St. F.X. in May 2025 with a degree in political science. He is a hard-working student and employee, who has endeared himself to many visitors at the Miners Museum. We profusely thank him for his service and congenial manner.

Best of luck, Ben, as you continue to move forward! Congratulations!

Nicole MacLean

Mabou Athletic Club and Aileen MacDonald

It is with great admiration and appreciation that we nominate Nicole MacLean as a 2025 Inverness County volunteer of the year.

Since moving to Mabou with her husband Tyler, Nicole MacLean has embraced her new home with open arms and a full heart.

Nicole is the kind of person who leads not for recognition, but out of genuine care and passion for others. Her tireless dedication to volunteering touches every corner of Mabou and its surrounding communities. Whether she’s raising vital funds through Mabou Fire and Ice, an initiative she created that has raised over $35,000 in support of the local fire department and arena, or responding to emergency calls as a proud member of the Mabou Volunteer Fire Department, Nicole gives her time, energy, and heart without hesitation or expectation.

She is also a driving force behind Mabou Ceilidh Days, an annual celebration that brings joy, pride, and connection to the community. Her generous spirit extends even further, contributing her time and talents to Mabou Communications Ltd., the Mabou Welcoming Committee and the Mabou Athletic Centre. Nicole’s efforts have resulted in organizing of pub nights, upcoming accessibility upgrades, new lights and continuous repairs inside the arena facility. She is always willing to step up and give a hand, from assisting Santa at Christmas to completing applications for the arena.

Nicole’s quiet leadership, strong work ethic, and natural warmth make her not just a volunteer, but an inspiration. She truly embodies the spirit of community service. Her efforts may not come with fanfare, but their impact is deeply felt. Congratulations, Nicole!

Raymond MacLean

Inverness Development Association

If you have been to Inverness in the summer, you know Raymond. A seven-year seasonal employee of the IDA, who forgets when his designated shift starts and ends, he opens the washrooms early in the morning, locks them at dusk, and does maintenance that keeps things flowing. Raymond is always available for repair and maintenance at any time of the year.

We thank Raymond for his continuous efforts. He was the main impetus for the lighting of the park this past year, from fundraising to installing the lights.

We appreciate all you do, Raymond! Congratulations!

Shirley MacLean

North Mountain Cultural & Recreation Association

Shirley has been a tremendous asset to our organization and community since she moved here a few years ago. She approached us asking if there was anything she could do to help in the community. As luck would have it, North Mountain Cultural & Recreation Association was looking for a new secretary and Shirley agreed to take that on and has done an excellent job. She also serves as secretary of a committee set up to develop a new association website.

Shirley has chaired a very successful volunteer luncheon for the past two years. She is an active member of the Library and Activities Committee and is also one of the administrators of our Facebook page.

Thank you, Shirley, for all you do. Congratulations!

Bradley Malcolm

West Bay Road & District Volunteer Fire Department

West Bay Road & District Volunteer Fire Department is happy to announce Bradley Malcolm as our volunteer of the year for 2025. Bradley has been our truck captain for many years. He is actively involved in the department in many capacities that go beyond his responsibilities as captain, and plays a key role in the membership and training committees.

Bradley takes every opportunity to train, keeping his skills current in firefighting and medical response. He travelled to Texas in 2024 to attend training at the Training Specialties Inc. Advanced Foam Firefighting School.

Congratulations Bradley. We are very proud to call you our volunteer firefighter of the year!

Sidney Matheson

Little Narrows Presbyterian Church

The Little Narrows Presbyterian Church is happy to recognize Sidney Matheson for his volunteer efforts.

Sidney has been the treasurer of the Little Narrows Presbyterian Church and the Little Narrows Presbyterian Cemetery Society from 1998 to 2024. Sidney has also generously volunteered his time at L’Arche Cape Breton and the Port Hawkesbury Senior’s Club.

Thank you, Sidney, for all your time and dedication. Congratulations!

Bailey MacNeil & Faith Welsh

Port Hood residents Tammy Stanley & Nicole MacEachern

It is with great appreciation that we nominate Bailey MacNeil and Faith Welsh for their outstanding volunteer contributions to our community. For the past year, Bailey and Faith have dedicated their time and effort to organizing and hosting trivia nights at The Admiral Lounge, an initiative that has not only brought the community together but has also made a significant impact in supporting our local food bank.

What began as a weekly event soon became a highly anticipated community gathering, drawing in large crowds and fostering a sense of camaraderie. As winter approached, the sessions transitioned to a monthly format, yet their commitment never wavered. Through their dedication and enthusiasm, Thursday nights at The Admiral have flourished, benefiting both local business and, most importantly, the food bank.

The impact of their efforts speaks for itself. Over $7,000 has been raised in donations since the inception of trivia nights. Despite the extensive preparation and time commitment required to organize these events, Bailey and Faith have remained steadfast in their volunteerism, showing remarkable dedication to both the cause and the community. Their passion and perseverance have ensured that this initiative continues to thrive. Their contributions have not gone unnoticed, and we sincerely hope they continue this invaluable work for years to come.

On behalf of the community at large, we extend our deepest gratitude to Bailey and Faith for their selfless efforts and unwavering commitment. Their impact is immeasurable, and they are truly deserving of this recognition.

Thank you, Bailey and Faith, for all that you do!

Bob Middaugh

Shean Trail Committee

Shean Trail is proud to recognize Bob Middaugh as their 2025 trail volunteer of the year. As the senior volunteer for the Sheen Trail section of the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, Bob’s leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment have been truly inspiring.

Since the trail’s inception, Bob has been a driving force behind its development, continuously striving to make Shean Trail a standout gem along the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail. His enthusiasm and passion remain as strong today as they were on day one, motivating and energizing fellow volunteers.

Bob, your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed. Thank you for everything you do to keep Shean Trail thriving! Congratulations!

Robert Neil Middaugh

Mabou New Horizons Senior Club

The Mabou New Horizons Seniors Club is happy to announce Robert Neil Middaugh as their volunteer of the year. Robert is president of the Mabou Seniors Club.

Robert has also volunteered many hard-working hours along the Inverness Shean Trail over the past 20 years and has also served on the Board of Inverness Legion Branch 132.

Thank you, Robert, for all your time and dedication. Congratulations!

Cathy Miller

St. Joseph Parish, SW Margaree

The Parish of St Joseph in Southwest Margaree is pleased to nominate Cathy Miller as our volunteer of the year.

Cathy is a faithful and dedicated member of the parish. She leads the hall committee and is also the chairperson of the tri-parish finance committee. Cathy is a dedicated member of the CWL and is always willing to help wherever she can be of service. She faithfully leads the recitation of the rosary before mass and is always generous with her time and talents. Cathy cares for many members of our greater community by willingly offering to drive and accompany people to appointments. She has served in many roles in the church including as catechist, altar server and eucharistic minister.

Thank you, Cathy, for your dedication to your parish.

Krystal Noble

Scotsville School of Crafts

Scotsville School of Crafts is delighted to recognize and nominate Krystal Noble as our 2025 volunteer of the year. Krystal lives on a small sheep farm with her husband Chestley and son Finley. It was Krystal’s interest in fibre that first brought her to the Scotsville school.

Krystal has assisted with our dye garden, painting and cleaning. She offers more than her labour. She brings her enthusiasm and laughter, making the most difficult jobs lighter. In addition, when you get Krystal, you get her family. We thank you all!

Congratulations, Krystal!

Elaine Rankin

Inverness County Cares

After retiring from 40 years of caring service as an Licensed Practice Nurse and later as an assistant in the Occupational Therapy Department at St. Martha’s Hospital, Elaine Rankin spends much time in her native community of Judique. She has a heart big enough to encompass the larger world and Inverness County Cares is happy to nominate her as their volunteer of the year.

For the past 10 years, in her quiet and capable way, Elaine has attended regular meetings and volunteered in many ways to support the visually impaired, blind and albino students at two schools in Zambia. Whether it be the organizing of a ticket fundraiser, decorating a Christmas tree for the Festival of Trees in Judique, preparing pizzas for a Chestico days pizza sale or painting the recyclable trailers in Mabou and Port Hood, this woman is up to the task, and has done it all. In addition, she personally sponsors Patrick, a student in need at St. Odilia School in Mporokoso, Zambia.

Inverness County Cares is fortunate to have Elaine on our team. Congratulations!

Marilyn Sangster

Stella Maris Parish, Inverness

Marilyn (Poirier) Sangster was born and raised in Inverness. She grew up in a home where the door was never locked, and everyone was welcomed into the house. She learned from a young age that you always help your community, no questions asked.

Marilyn has been an alter server and eucharistic minister all her adult life. She has been teaching religious education for many years at Stella Maris Parish in Inverness, and eventually for students from St. Margaret’s Parish in Broad Cove.

Marilyn has been very active in fundraising initiatives. She has volunteered for the annual Stella Maris Parish Dinner (same day as the Broad Cove Concert) every year for 25 years, the annual Stella Maris Parish Fall Bazaar, the Stella Maris Parish quilters who make a quilt every year as a fundraiser for parish, and she is a member of the Christmas Tree of Lights Memorial Angels fundraising committee.

Additionally, Marilyn has volunteered her time as a founding member of the “Save Our Schools” committee, for Cursillo and Challenge teams in Mabou, teaching Beavers, and has served two terms on the Shean Co-op Board of Directors.

Thank you, Marilyn, for your dedication to your community. Congratulations!

Pat Stinson

Margaree Area Development Association (MADA)

Margaree Area Development Association is proud to nominate Pat Stinson as our 2025 volunteer for her commitment to Celtic Colours programs in our villages over the past 15 years.

Moving to the Margarees in 1994, Pat has been a valued community supporter through the years, but MADA has particularly appreciated her focus on Celtic Colours programming in our area since 2009.

Whether it has been the planning of community events, the organizing of volunteers on site through the busy festival week, or her hands-on preparation of a delicious meal for the entertainers and backstage crew on concert night, Pat has provided steady leadership throughout.

We applaud Pat’s community spirit! Congratulations!

Lauren Tran

Danielle Casgrande, Cape Breton Partnership Welcome Network

I am thrilled to recognize Lauren Tran for her incredible volunteer services in Inverness County. Lauren’s dedication to her community is truly inspiring. As a volunteer with the Welcome Network, she actively supports newcomers, fostering connection and inclusivity. Most recently, Lauren went above and beyond to organize a beautiful cursive writing workshop at the Inverness County Centre for the Arts as part of our Coffee and Connect program. She not only facilitated the workshop but also designed custom worksheets, created promotional materials, and even did an interview with CBC Radio to spread the word.

Lauren’s passion, creativity, and generosity make her an outstanding community volunteer! Congratulations, Lauren!

Etheridge Vance

Margaree Salmon Museum

Margaree Salmon Museum is pleased to nominate Etheridge Vance as our 2025 volunteer in recognition of his ready volunteerism within the Margarees and for his seasonal groundskeeping at the museum.

Etheridge grew up across the road from the Salmon Museum in Northeast Margaree. He now volunteers his time to mow the grass and keep the museum grounds looking attractive each year between June and October.

The father of a young family, Etheridge also volunteers as a fireman and first responder with the Northeast Margaree Fire Department. Whether he is helping to maintain the museum property or supporting the valuable work of the fire department, Etheridge is a firm believer that living in a place like the Margarees is a privilege and with that comes a responsibility to help build and support his community.

The Margaree Salmon Museum is proud to nominate this industrious young man. Congratulations!