The Town of Georgina honoured members of the community with the 2025 Volunteer Award of Merit at a ceremony at the ROC on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
“Our community is stronger because of the people who step forward to support others and bring neighbours together,” said Mayor Margaret Quirk. “I offer my heartfelt thanks to the recipients of the 2025 Volunteer Award of Merit. Their dedication and generosity continue to make a meaningful and lasting difference in Georgina.”
The Town recognized Rod Beswick as the 2025 Citizen of the Year, recognizing his outstanding dedication to preserving remembrance, supporting veterans and educating future generations about the importance of service and sacrifice. For many years, Rod Beswick has demonstrated unwavering commitment to both the Sutton Legion and the broader Georgina community. Through his outreach in local schools, including those on Georgina Island, he has helped ensure young people understand and honour the sacrifices made by veterans and fallen service members.
He has played a central role in organizing and leading Remembrance Day parades for the past 18 years. He has also participated in Police Services Remembrance ceremonies since their inception, helping to uphold traditions that are deeply meaningful to the community.
He regularly volunteers his time at Legion events by assisting in the kitchen, supporting community gatherings or helping with cleanup. In addition to his work with the Legion, he has supported numerous community initiatives, including the Terry Fox Run and municipal inaugural ceremonies. Rod has contributed to the development of a new cenotaph in Sutton’s Peace Park, helping to create a lasting space for reflection and remembrance. A proud veteran with 12 years of service in the army, he brings discipline, knowledge, and deep respect for tradition to everything he does.
The following is a list of the Volunteer Award of Merit recipients:
Individual Award of Merit
- Blaire Strolenberg
- Andrea Earl
- Bryan Graham
- Corinne D’Angelo
- Emilee Elliott
- Jeff Greenaway
- Margaret Landry
- Doreen Wright
- Rod Beswick
- Walter Mackey
- Leanne Harding
- Dave Hackenbrook
Youth Award of Merit
- Carleigh Davis
- Gobiha Sairam
- Olivia Hewitt
Community team/group Award of Merit
- Friends of the Library
- Keswick Community Fridge Volunteers
- Georgina Farmers’ Market
Business Award of Merit - Zehrs Keswick
Environmental Award of Merit
- Debbie Gordon
Arts and Culture Recognition Award
- Ewa and Steeve Chwojko