For over 40 years, the Town of Georgina’s Volunteer Award of Merit program has celebrated the outstanding contributions of those who make a difference in our community. This meaningful award recognizes individuals, teams, groups, and businesses who demonstrate exceptional commitment to service, helping to make Georgina a more vibrant, caring, and connected place to live.
Nominations
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Volunteer Award of Merit
Help us celebrate the outstanding individuals, teams, groups, and businesses who make a difference in Georgina! Nominations for the 2025 Volunteer Award of Merit are now open and will be accepted until Dec. 31, 2025.
Take this opportunity to recognize someone whose dedication and community spirit help make Georgina a better place for all.
Submit your nomination today and help us shine a light on local excellence!
2024 Honourees
The Town of Georgina honoured members of the community with the 2024 Volunteer Award of Merit at a ceremony at the ROC on Thursday, May 15, 2025.
A special recognition award was given to the Pefferlaw and District Lions Club for their dedication and spirit of service.
2024 honourees
The Town of Georgina honoured members of the community with the 2024 Volunteer Award of Merit at a ceremony at the ROC on Thursday, May 15, 2025.
Individual Award of Merit
- Jim Beechey
- Bette Banks
- Emiko Balazik
- Jessie Sedore
- Deborah Todoschuk
- Morris Cohen
- Chris Girdlestone
- Ron LaCombe
- Elizabeth McLean
- Janice Osborne
Youth Award of Merit
- Lucien Joly
- Daniel Bennett
Community organization Award of Merit
- Georgina – Brock Garden Club
- Keswick High School Food Program
Business Award of Merit
- Sweet Pea Boutique
- Colour Central Hair Studio & Spa
- Last Rodeo BBQ
Special Recognition Award - Pefferlaw District Lions Club
The Pefferlaw District Lions Club has long been a cornerstone of community support in Georgina, hosting events like bingo, euchre, car shows, and holiday celebrations. Their commitment was especially evident during the recent ice storm when they opened their hall as a warming center, offering hot meals and a safe space for residents. Known for their teamwork and generosity, the Lions continuously give back through donations, family support, and community initiatives.
Read the media release for the 2024 Volunteer Award of Merit
Award descriptions
Individual Award of Merit
An individual who is currently contributing to the betterment of the community and to Georgina as a whole.
- The nominee is/are residents of Georgina
- The nominee has/have contributed to the betterment of their local community or Georgina as a whole (includes recognizing individuals for the community events.)
- Nominee is not an elected official or a staff member of the Town of Georgina as of the nomination deadline.
Community Team/Group Ward of Merit
A community group or team that significantly enhanced the Town of Georgina through their contribution, commitment, and leadership.
- The nominee is/are residents of Georgina
- The nominee has/have contributed to the betterment of their local community or Georgina as a whole (includes recognizing individuals for the community events.)
- Nominee is not an elected official or a staff member of the Town of Georgina as of the nomination deadline.
Youth Award of Merit
An individual who is currently contributing to the enrichment of the social, cultural or civic life within the community.
- The nominee is/are residents of Georgina
- The nominee is 18 years of age or younger as of Dec. 31 of the year of the award
- The nominee has/have contributed to the betterment of their local community or Georgina as a whole (includes recognizing individuals for the community events.)
- Nominee is not an elected official or a staff member of the Town of Georgina as of the nomination deadline.
Business Award of Merit
A business that is currently contributing to the betterment of the community and to Georgina as a whole.
- The nominee is/are residents of Georgina
- The nominee has/have contributed to the betterment of their local community or Georgina as a whole (includes recognizing individuals for the community events.)
- Nominee is not an elected official or a staff member of the Town of Georgina as of the nomination deadline.
Arts and Culture Recognition Award
This award is presented to a distinguished citizen of Georgina in recognition of their exceptional volunteer efforts in enhancing the town’s artistic and cultural landscape. It honours individual who have dedicated their talents to fostering creativity, supporting local arts initiatives, and enriching the cultural experiences of the community.
- Must be a resident of the Town of Georgina
- Nominee is not an elected official or a staff member of the Town of Georgina as of the nomination deadline.
- Demonstrates a concern for the overall development of the community
- Presents a positive public image of the Town of Georgina
- Participates regularly in community projects
- Evidence of ongoing leadership and dedication
- Broader significance of your nominee’s contribution, such as the impact on an organization and/or the Community
Environmental Award of Merit
Honouring an individual, group/team, business or community organization that supports the protection, sustainability or conservation of our natural environment, to create a greener community.
- Must be an individual, group/team, business or community organization that is in the Town Georgina
- Nominee(s) is/are not an elected official or a staff member of the Town of Georgina as of the nomination deadline.
- The nominee(s) has/have contributed to the betterment of their local community or Georgina as a whole (includes recognizing individuals for the community events.)
Volunteer in Georgina
The Town invites you to make a difference in our community by becoming a volunteer. Volunteering is a great way to give back, meet new people, and learn new skills. Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to get involved regularly, we have opportunities for everyone. Visit our Volunteer in Georgina page to learn more and sign up today. Together, we can make Georgina an even better place to live.
Photo and video
Media and Town of Georgina staff will be taking photos and video footage at Town of Georgina special events. These images may be used, re-used and published in news stories, social media and on websites, in addition to distributed to our event partners.