JASON SETNYK
The Rotary Club of Cornwall Sunrise celebrated volunteerism and community service during its “Ignite Volunteerism” event at the Seaway Valley Theatre, recognizing local organizations and individuals through Paul Harris recognitions and special community honours.
The evening featured presentations from community groups and volunteers rather than traditional acceptance speeches, highlighting the impact of volunteerism across the region. Cornwall Councillor Carilyne Hébert attended on behalf of the city, with recipients also signing Cornwall’s Book of Recognition.
Among those recognized was Sisters For Life, which completed its 13th year of fundraising in 2025, bringing its total contributions to $312,801. Last year alone, the group donated $21,250 to the Canadian Cancer Society, $10,000 to the Cornwall Community Hospital Foundation for breast cancer detection and treatment initiatives, and $5,000 to Ronald McDonald House Ottawa. The group also hosted the Melanoma Canada Mole Clinic locally, providing 123 free assessments and 27 referrals for follow-up care.
“This recognition means more than words can express,” said Maureen Robertson of Sisters For Life. “These honours belong to every volunteer, supporter, sponsor, family member, donor, and community partner who continues to believe in our mission and stands beside us in making a difference in the lives of those living with cancer.”
The Friends of the Summerstown Trails were also recognized for nearly two decades of volunteer-driven outdoor recreation programming and trail stewardship. The incorporated non-profit maintains 30 kilometres of trails used year-round for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, walking, running, and cycling, welcoming between 20,000 and 23,000 visits annually.
Supported by more than 80 volunteers and over 350 members, the organization also operates equipment rentals, ski lessons, races, and youth programs. Its long-running school hosting initiative brings between 500 and 800 students to the trails each winter, helping introduce young people to outdoor recreation and nature-based activities.
Environmental advocates John Towndrow and Susan Towndrow were honoured for their longstanding work with Transition Cornwall+ and community environmental initiatives. The pair have been active in climate resilience, biodiversity, sustainability, ecological restoration, and local food system advocacy, while also contributing to programming and events connected to the Cline House Gallery. Hébert praised the couple during council remarks. “Being able to honour John and Susan was truly a privilege for me,” she said. “They go above and beyond being dedicated citizens to this community, and I am honoured to call them friends.” The club also recognized Lindsay Sayers for her commitment to Rotary humanitarian projects in Ghana, which focus on awareness, education, and treatment of neglected tropical skin diseases including Buruli ulcer, yaws, and leprosy. Rotary member Rory MacDonald was honoured for his contributions to Rotary projects and volunteer involvement with organizations including the Legion, Knights of Columbus, and local pipe bands.
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