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Latest Update: May 5, 2025

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Volunteer Appreciation Award Recipients

Each year, the Township of King hosts a Volunteer Appreciation Night to honour and celebrate one of the Township’s most important resources: its volunteers.

You can read the media release about the 2025 award recipients here.

2025 Volunteer Appreciation Award recipients

Below are current and past volunteer appreciation award recipients.

2025 Award Winners

The Citizen of the Year Award is given to a citizen of the Township of King to recognize and honour outstanding contributions to King. This year’s recipient is Kelly Harbridge.
For over 14 years, Kelly has been a champion of community service, leading the King Township Minor Hockey Association and contributing to youth sports, healthcare and humanitarian causes.
Kelly's leadership in the Schomberg Minor Hockey Association and the King Township Association has provided countless young athletes with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive both on and off the ice.
His involvement with the Southlake Hospital Foundation and the Schomberg Lions Club further exemplifies his dedication to serving others.
This award is given to one or more citizens or an organization for a special contribution made to the community. This year’s recipients are:
Anna Errico: Recognized for her efforts in organizing community events, fundraising for the Schomberg Community Barn and her active involvement with the Schomberg Lions Club. Anna has been instrumental in spearheading many fundraisers, cookouts, and events, including the New Year's Eve event where she served as the chef. Her dedication to the Schomberg community farm and various town clean-up events highlights her commitment to the community.
Anna Santarossa: Honoured for her leadership in the Nobleton and King City Garden Club, contributions to the Heritage Advisory Committee, and support for refugees and retired teachers. Anna's involvement with King 4 Refugees and the ARYCT group demonstrates her passion for helping others and fostering community connections.
Bev Flannigan: Acknowledged for her roles in the King Township Historical Society, Sacred Heart Catholic Women's League, and various community organizations. Bev's energetic and enthusiastic approach has made a significant impact on the King Heritage and Cultural Centre, the Concerned Citizens of King Township and Climate Action King.
Cheryl Fisher: Celebrated for her initiatives in creating community events and spaces, including the Schomberg Scarecrow Competition and Schomberg Community Farm. Cheryl's efforts in fundraising for the bridge to the farm and advocating for the restoration of the Barn have provided residents with unique opportunities to engage with their community. (Pictured is Cherly's daughter Shelley accepting the award on her behalf)
Joanne Bailey: Commended for her volunteer work with Arts Society King, Nobleton Seniors group, and Schomberg Community Farm. Joanne's dedication to organizing activities and inviting guest speakers for the Nobleton Seniors group, as well as her involvement in various community events, showcases her commitment to enhancing the lives of others.
Giovannina Colalillo: Celebrated for her leadership in uniting residents through her successful career in the arts. Giovannina facilitates monthly sketching sessions at a pub, teaches figurative drawing classes and runs a book club and other clubs like Artist Adventures. Her artwork shines in many galleries, earning recognition for her artistic success and make her most deserving of this award.
Kay and Ajit Dhamrait: Recognized for their dedication to the King Township Food Bank, providing essential support and embodying the spirit of community service. Their weekly efforts in packing food boxes, organizing monthly distributions and picking up fresh produce have made a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.
Martha Richardson: Honoured for her support for sustainable communities and conservation efforts, Martha highlights her commitment to a greener future.
Rina Trimmeliti and Marina DiGirolamo: Celebrated for their dedication to Arts Society King, supporting events and promoting the arts. Their enthusiasm, problem-solving skills and advocacy for the arts have made a significant impact on the organization and the community
Bob Pickering, Patti Wolfe, Liz Fyfe, Murray Fyfe, Wendy Cockburn, Rick Sikorski, Josie Dorio and Elaine Kitteridge: Recognized for their advocacy in preserving the historic character of Kettleby Road. Their efforts in soliciting opinions from residents and proposing design modifications have ensured that the road design respects the unique historic character of Kettleby.
This award is given to one or more individuals for a special contribution made to the community who reside outside of King. This year’s recipients are:
Gail Nowell: Honoured for her work with the Open Closet Outlet and King Township Food Bank, providing support to less fortunate families. Gail's organizational skills and dedication to ensuring a dignified and beautiful experience for those in need have made a significant impact on the community.
Jackie Treadwell: Recognized for her hard work and carrying out various functions where needed and communicating the results of her work to the King City Seniors Centre board of members at large where required. In particular, she has done excellent work with computer tasks.
Glenda Reynolds: Recognized for her contributions to the community through various volunteer efforts. Glenda's involvement with the Open Closet Outlet and her willingness to help with sorting and organizing items have provided invaluable support to the King Township Food Bank.
Lisa Lethangue: Celebrated for her leadership and dedication at the Open Closet Outlet, ensuring smooth operations and a welcoming environment for all. Lisa's tireless efforts in leading the volunteer group and organizing monthly events have made a positive difference in the lives of many.
Margaret “Maggie” Patterson: Acknowledged for her inspiring volunteer work at the Open Closet Outlet, bringing joy and support to the community. Maggie's active involvement and positive attitude, despite her age, have made her a beloved figure among volunteers and visitors alike.
Torben Hoyer: Recognized for his dedication and positive attitude in the King Township Public Library’s Math Buddy program. Torben's patience and eagerness to help his math buddy have made a significant impact on the program.
The York Region Amateur Radio Club: Recognized for their professionalism and dedication in assisting with parking at various Township events. Led by Eric Brown, the club's volunteers have ensured smooth operations at events such as Trees & Treats, Nobleton Victoria Day, and Kingtoberfest.
This award is given to a senior citizen of King to recognize and honour special contributions to the senior population of King. This year’s recipients are:
Mary Aldcroft: Recognized for her meticulous work in organizing kitchen tasks and ensuring well-attended community functions. Mary's dedication to overseeing every phase of work in the kitchen has contributed to the success of numerous events.
Rosemary Bellefontaine: Celebrated for her extensive volunteer work at the King City Senior Centre, Hope House Community Hospice, and All Saints Anglican Church. Rosemary's compassionate and dedicated approach has made her an invaluable member of the community.
This award recognizes outstanding citizenship within the community, with many years of dedicated service and devotion to the residents of King. This year’s recipient is:
Keith Beckley: Honoured for his tireless volunteer work since 1998, including coaching sports teams, environmental advocacy, and organizing community events. Keith's leadership in promoting electrification and organizing the Electric Vehicle Community event has made a lasting impact on King Township.
This award is given to a younger citizen of King to recognize special contributions to the Township. This year’s recipients are:
Siena Chiaradia: Acknowledged for her exemplary volunteer work with various community organizations and her leadership in the Mayor’s Youth Action Team. Siena's involvement in events such as the Truth and Reconciliation Day Celebration and her support for the arts and heritage initiatives highlight her commitment to the community.
Kyla Ruthven: Celebrated for her consistent and exemplary volunteer work with the King Township Food Bank and various township events. Kyla's maturity and willingness to assist seniors and other volunteers have made her a valuable member of the community.
Nathaniel Weber: Honoured for his helpful and reliable volunteer work at the King Township Public Library. Nathaniel's willingness to run activities and alleviate pressure during busy times has been greatly appreciated
Marygrace Telesco: Recognized for her dedication to the Mayor’s Youth Action Team, environmental initiatives, and various community events. Marygrace's leadership in organizing youth events and her passion for environmental causes have made her a standout volunteer.

2024 Award Winners

The Citizen of the Year Award is given to a citizen of the Township of King to recognize and honor outstanding contributions to King. This year’s recipient is Ivan Rapa.
Nominated by Anthony Bisogno on behalf of the King United Soccer Club (KUSC), Rapa's contributions to the community and the club have left a lasting impact.
Rapa's journey with KUSC began nearly 13 years ago when he joined as the equipment manager. His dedication to making soccer accessible to all soon propelled him into the role of vice-president of operations and, later, president. Known affectionately as "Coach Ivan," he became a familiar face on the field, ensuring that every child's experience with the sport was meaningful and aligned with the club's ethos of "Soccer for Life."
As president, Rapa worked tirelessly to enhance KUSC's facilities, collaborating with the Township and private stakeholders. He also represented the club at regional and provincial soccer levels, advocating for the sustainability of community clubs like KUSC against for-profit academies. Rapa’s leadership has inspired many to return to coach and volunteer, creating a ripple effect of positive change in King Township.
This award is given to one or more citizens or an organization for a special contribution made to the community. This year’s recipients are:
Nancy Boyd: Boyd was recognized for her support of the King Township Food Bank and community, her creation of the Love Bags program and her dedication to serving the less fortunate in a profound way.
Karen Marshall: Marshall was recognized for her dedication and service with the King Township Food Bank as well as Christmas in King and significantly enhancing the organization’s fundraising efforts with her remarkable organizational skills.
Patti Skrypek: Skrypek was recognized for her dedication and service to Arts Society King, the King Township Public Library’s King City branch and for the various charity events she has helped to run, such as Comedy in King and the King Holiday Lights Tour.
This award is given to one or more individuals for a special contribution made to the community who reside outside of King. This year’s recipients are:
Karlene MacDonald: MacDonald was recognized for her dedication and service with the Nobleton Skating Club. She was recognized for her compassion and professionalism alongside her countless volunteer hours, ensuring families and skaters enjoy the sport.
Ken Orr: Orr was recognized for his contributions to the community by way of coaching and donating to youth sports teams, along with his giving more than 40 years of service to work with and help fundraise for the Lions Club.
This award is given to a senior citizen of King to recognize and honour special contributions to the senior population of King. This year’s recipient is:
Earl Groombridge: Groombridge was recognized for his coordination of initiatives to uplift the underprivileged, his involvement with the King Township Food Bank and support of those facing transportation challenges, offering his time and vehicle to those most in need.
This award recognizes outstanding citizenship within the community, with many years of dedicated service and devotion to the residents of King. This year’s recipient is:
Carol Ann Trabert: Trabert was recognized for her creation and development of the King Township Food Bank, her “proclivity for saying yes” when it comes to serving her community and her exemplary dedication to her community’s well-being.
This award is given to a younger citizen of King to recognize special contributions to the Township. This year’s recipients are:
Isabella Iacolino: Iacolino was recognized for her volunteer work over the last two years with King’s Community Services department. She first started volunteering to obtain her high school volunteer service hours. However, she has far surpassed her 40 hours and continues to volunteer with King. She tackles every volunteering opportunity with enthusiasm and a sense of fun.
Layla Giambattista: Giambattista was recognized for her willingness to support her community through the act of volunteering with the King Township Public Library, providing valuable support as a Reading Buddy to younger children as they develop and improve their literacy skills. Parents of the children she volunteers with speak highly of her.

2023 Award Winners

The Citizen of the Year Award is given to a citizen of the Township of King to recognize and honor outstanding contributions to the King.
The 2023 Citizen of the Year Award was given to Angelo Santorelli.
Presented in recognition of his special dedication, generosity and time to his community as a longtime resident, proud business owner and President of Trisan Construction, member of the King Chamber of Commerce for over 10 years, including President since 2019, as well as his participation and involvement in the Township’s Sustainability Advisory Committee.
Angelo has helped bring businesses together and have been involved in creating a stronger and better community for all who live and seek to thrive in our Township.
This award is given to one or more citizens or an organization for a special contribution made to the community in whole or in part. There are 15 recipients for 2023. They are:
Brenda See: Schomberg Village Association, Schomberg Agricultural Society, Dufferin Marsh Nature Connection, Schomberg Lions Club and the King Township Foodbank
Joe D'Ercole: Committee of Adjustment
Sharlene Maietta: Girl Guides in King, King Township Food Bank
Beverley Berger: Accessibility Advisory Committee
Bob Belcher: King Curling Club
Fiona Macrae/Llian Macrae and Gerladine Alletson: Kettleby and Christ Church, Christmas in King (King Township Foodbank), Open Doors King (King Historical Society), Canada Day in Kettleby Park, Kettleby Fair, Christ Church Kettleby’s Women’s Guild Spring and Fall Teas, activities of Kettleby Village Association as well as writing, editing and publishing a a book about Kettleby Village and its Christ Church.
Gillian Watt: Concerned Citizens of King Township
Gino and Susan DiFebo: Nobleton United Church and community, King Curling Club
Ian Hilley: Kingscross Estates Ratepayers Association, King for Refugees, CHATS and the Canadian Hemachromotosis Society
King For Refugees: Presented in recognition of assisting 30 newcomers from different parts of the world to reside in King by raising the funds necessary to sponsor a family for a year, guiding and supporting the families toward financial independence, securing accommodations, clothing, furniture and food among many other things.
Linda Pabst: Involved in bringing ambulance service to Nobleton and King City, volunteering with EMS for over 16 years and serving as a King Councillor for 24 years. After retiring as a Councillor in 2018, member of the Accessibility and Advisory Committee.
Mary Muter: Chair of the Georgian Bay Great Lakes Foundation, Concerned Citizens of King Township, Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust, Save The Oak Ridges Moraine Coalition and Kingscross Ratepayers Association.
Meline Beach: King Township Food Bank
Michele McNally: President of Arts Society King
Schomberg Horticultural Society: Presented in recognition of its tremendous efforts and contributions to the community since its inception on April 12, 1935.
Susan Hayhoe: Nobleton Pool Committee, Nobleton Skating Club, Nobleton Tennis Club, Young Mother’s Group in Toronto acting as a support and mentor to young single mothers.
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes outstanding citizenship within the community, with many years of dedicated service and devotion to the residents of King.
Louise Di Iorio: King Township Historical Society, Heritage Advisory and the King Township Museum Board.
Wendy Sue Bishop: Marshal for the annual Main Street Christmas Parade for the past six years and the voice of Schomberg with a weekly update in the King Weekly Sentinel for over 30 years.
The Youth Award of Merit is given to a younger citizen of King to recognize special contributions to the Township.
Julia Tabrizi: King Township Public Library Reading Buddies program.
Noa Brook: Mayor’s Youth Action Team, organized a group to clean a public pond in King, coordinated a school fundraiser for the Vaughan animal shelter as well as teaching English to Ukrainian refugees.
Paul O’Neill: Leaders In Training program for summer camps at the Township of King. Volunteered for eight weeks at the King City Arena leading campers through games, activities and helping with the lunch program.
Zoran Ouslis: Volunteer camp counsellor with the Township of King in 2021, volunteer mentor for younger high school students at King City Secondary School, including volunteering time to tutor students in Physics and Mathematics, volunteered with the Reading Buddies Program and currently enrolling in the Math Buddies Program.

2022 Award Winners

The Citizen of the Year Award is given to a citizen of the Township of King to recognize and honor outstanding contributions to the King.
The 2022 Citizen of the Year Award was given to Michelle Frauley.
Michelle received the award in recognition of her dedication, generosity and time to the community as a caregiver, volunteer, resident and business owner.
Michelle has more than three decades of nursing experience, including family medicine, palliative and end-of-life care, women’s health, complex long-term care, operating room and community.
In 2013, she founded Hospall Private Homecare in King. In 2016, she received an award from the International Nurses Association as a Worldwide Leader in Healthcare.
During the pandemic, Michelle took on a leadership role at King’s partner-led King Township Vaccination Clinic. She was a mentor to community volunteers, doctors and nurses, and helped lead the clinic to success.
This award is given to one or more citizens or an organization for a special contribution made to the community in whole or in part. There are 11 recipients for 2022. They are:
Alf Budweth: Nobleton Tree Lighting; Nobleton Victoria Day; A Main Street Christmas; King Fire and Emergency Services
Charles Cooper: Schomberg Village Association—A Main Street Christmas.
Gord Dobson: Schomberg Lions Club
Jennifer Eaglesham: Nobleton Tree Lighting; King Heritage Advisory Committee; St. Mary’s Parent Council
Catherine Flear: King Township Vaccination Clinic; Hope House Community Hospice; Hospice King-Aurora; Concerned Citizens of King Township; Climate Action King; Tree Focus Group; King Heritage Advisory Committee.
Earl Groombridge: Nobleton Lions Club
Bill Jones: Dufferin Marsh Nature Connection
Latif Kassam: Nobleton Lions Club; Nobleton Lions Charity Golf Tournament
Ian McClelland: King City Lions Club
Dorita Peer: WriteNow!@King, Arts Society King
Geoff Simpson: King Township Food Bank; Concerned Citizens of King Township; Arts Society King; King Township Vaccination Clinic.
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes outstanding citizenship within the community, with many years of dedicated service and devotion to the residents of King.
Bill Salter: Oak Ridge’s Trail Association; Concerned Citizens of King Township; Cold Creek Stewardship; Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust; King Township Historical Society.
Dennis O’Hara: Schomberg Agricultural Society; York Region Milk Committee; York Region Holstein Club; Farmers’ Parade of Lights; York Region Federation of Agriculture; St. Patrick’s Church.
The Youth Award of Merit is given to a younger citizen of King to recognize special contributions to the Township.
Celina Lovisotto: Bags of Promise
Sofia Elisabeth Ouslis: Christmas in King; Nobleton Tree Lighting; A Main Street Christmas; Farmers’ Parade of Lights; King City Craft Beer and Food Truck Festival; Cold Creek Bee Festival; Holland Marsh Soupfest; Raspberry Festival; King Township Public Library.

2019 Award Winners

This year the accolades went to Bruce Craig, current chair of Concerned Citizens of King Township (CCKT).
The highly engaged community activist, a common face at council meetings, was almost speechless when he came forward to accept the award. He thanked his long-time friends and colleagues who attended the evening. For Craig, his mantra is how much can be accomplished when we all just listen and understand one another.
A member of the King City Bible Church, Bruce is part of the “Missions and Compassion Team,” which identifies opportunities to help individuals. An active member of King for Refugees, Bruce is compassionately involved with families providing social and emotional support, assisting with fundraising efforts and most recently is an integral member of its Planning and Administration Team helping propel the organization forward.
He’s also a past member of the King Township Environmental Advisory Committee and was instrumental in forming the Tree Focus Group, helping to preserve trees in King.
Mayor Pellegrini said Craig is know for his “gentle and loving voice".
“You have become a dear friend to many and are a compassionate and caring individual who has a tremendous ability to give to others. A good and caring neighbour to all, you have been a blessing to many through your thoughtful and generous nature.”
Craig was among several CCKT volunteers recognized with Provincial Volunteer Service Awards in 2017.
Craig is a retired elementary school teacher with YRDSB and a King City resident since 1992. Bruce’s engagement with CCKT goes back to the “Big Pipe” sewer conflict and Community Plan and Official Plan planning processes in King in the mid-1990s. Bruce has been concerned with several environmental and planning related issues facing King, sustaining and preserving the Oak Ridges Moraine in particular.
Lisa Barenthin received the award for her tremendous efforts tremendous efforts within the community. She helps organize and execute a taekwondo tournament in Pottageville for the school, and has been the coordinator and organizer of the annual Terry Fox Run in King for 13 years. “Your dedication and leadership for the community is truly inspiring.”
Jerry MacBain got the nod for his involvement and dedication to coaching in the Nobleton Minor Hockey Association for several years. He was also chair of Nobleton arena for roughly 20 years. He’s an active member of the Nobleton Lions Club and held the position of president.
Anne Peat was honoured for her service assisting with King Township Archives, helping organize documents related to the histories of families who have or still live in King. She generously volunteers with Hospice King-Aurora (now known as Hope House Community Hospice). She also assists in the program “Picking up the Pieces” which offers assistance to patients after forgoing their cancer treatments.
“Your sensitivity, care and compassion for others is truly uplifting.”
Elaine Robertson was praised for her work as a member of the Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee for over 30 years and president for eight years. She’s been a long-time member of the Historical Society and Arts Society King and is actively involved with preserving Kettleby. She volunteered at the Kettleby Fair.
Len Adams has been an instructor for many years at the King City Seniors Centre, teaching “Gentle Motion” (a form of Tai-Chi), encouraging seniors to be active and lead a healthy lifestyle. He participates in a cycling fundraising event for blindness.
Dima Berchalli and Mohammad Totah served as directors for King for Refugees, contributing countless hours in volunteer service which has enriched the lives of “newcomer” families in The Township of King. “You have been instrumental in sponsoring and welcoming new families to the community; generously preparing foods, attending settlement group meetings, organizing schooling for both adults and children, organizing budgeting, financial management and assisting families in settling into life in Canada.”
Caledon’s Barb Downey was recognized for her role as past-president and current director of the Nobleton & King City Horticultural Society. She’s actively involved in the Flower Show Committee, the Garden Tour Committee and is occasionally a guest speaker providing floral and decorating tips. “Your dedication, commitment and inspiring floral designs are truly admired by all!”
Haider Meghjee & Aziza Amarshi were honoured for providing a series of free monthly wellness talks and complimentary nutrition and wellness seminars offered at the King City Library and for seniors at the King City Senior Centre. They have been instrumental to the community by building and providing exceptional friendly service at the King City Guardian Pharmacy, and volunteering for the King for Refugees by helping initiate a fundraising program, and mentoring and providing employment to several of King’s newcomer youths. They also enter a support the Run for Southlake Hospital, and created a team in the Sporting Life Walk which supports “Camp Ooch” (patients of Sick Children’s Hospital). They also support the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation Ride for Cancer.
Mary Aldcroft was honoured for her service with the King City Senior Centre and Board of Management, operating as the kitchen convenor. She makes sure the entire center’s functions have the necessities they require. Known for her helpful nature, she is often found driving seniors to and from doctor’s appointments, food shopping, assisting with pet care when the owners have been away, and organizing weekly bingo and other events in her building. Aldcroft is known for her great smile and contagious laugh.
Carol Field was singled out for her time serving as acting chair of the King City Seniors Centre; attending monthly board meetings, ensuring the members have a variety of programs and events they can participate in, such as pot lucks, barbecues, fashion shows, day trips, bridge and painting classes. She’s a member of the Nobleton & King City Horticultural Society and has generously hosted garden tours, maintained the seasonal outdoor arrangements as well as planted and nourished the centre’s gardens. “A concerned and helpful neighbour,” she is often seen driving people to their appointments, and assisting in any way she can.
Shannon Adams was honoured for her dedication and time assisting emergent readers and children through the King Township Public Library Reading Buddies Program.
Dylan DiGirolamo was praised for participating with the volunteering program HOSA Canada, a health science student organization that enhances and develops the quality for future professionals of health education within the high school. Dylan is also involved in King fundraising events such as MS drives, Cure for Cancer, Township’s summer fairs and events and at the Trisan Centre, helping coaches and training younger players.
Mahya Subedar assists emergent readers and children through the King Township Public Library Reading Buddies Program.