In the heart of St. Marys, Ontario, lies a community brimming with resilience and generosity. Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the town unveiled the “Strong as Stone” recognition program in 2021, a heartfelt tribute to individuals whose volunteer efforts have woven a tapestry of strength and support throughout the community.
The essence of this initiative is beautifully captured in the words of Brett O’Reilly, St. Marys’ corporate communications manager, who reflected, “It’s something that originated during COVID when people were doing so many selfless deeds. Things were sort of a bit dark for a while there, and we really wanted to take an opportunity to publicly recognize all the hard work that people were doing.”
Fast forward to the present, and six remarkable individuals have been honored during the recent National Volunteer Week for embodying the spirit of resilience and community service. Let’s delve into their inspiring stories of dedication and impact.
Cindy Bilyea: Leading with Passion
Cindy Bilyea stands tall as a beacon of leadership, chairing the boards of several organizations including St. Marys Minor Hockey, Quadro Communications, and the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation. Her commitment to empowering the community through various avenues is truly commendable.
Daniel Greig: Youthful Enthusiasm in Action
A local teen, Daniel Greig, exemplifies the power of youthful enthusiasm in driving positive change. From his active role in the student council at St. Marys District Collegiate and Professional Institute to his extensive volunteering endeavors, Daniel embodies the spirit of service with zest and dedication.
Ine Keller: Inspiring Wellness Advocacy
Ine Keller’s passion for promoting wellness and falls prevention among seniors is both heartening and impactful. Her enthusiastic volunteer work in teaching fitness not only enriches lives but also fosters a sense of community well-being.
Jeff Sager: A Pastor’s Compassionate Service
Jeff Sager’s compassionate service extends beyond the walls of his congregation. His work with local firefighters, involvement in community events like Evan’s Touch-the-Truck, and dedication to disaster preparedness highlight his commitment to supporting and uplifting those around him.
Pam Zabel: A Champion of Community Causes
Pam Zabel’s unwavering dedication to causes such as the Coldest Night of the Year and her invaluable contributions to advisory and fundraising committees exemplify her role as a champion of community causes. Her impact resonates deeply within St. Marys.
Phylis Spearin: A Legacy of Giving Back
With over five decades of selfless service, Phylis Spearin embodies the true essence of giving back. Her enduring commitment as part of the St. Marys Kinette Club has left an indelible mark on the community, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
Mayor Al Strathdee aptly expressed the town’s gratitude, stating, “We are incredibly grateful to this generous group of individuals for giving their time, effort, and energy to others. Their actions truly embody the Stonetown spirit.”
Looking ahead, nominations for the next Strong as Stone program will open in February 2025, culminating in an official announcement during National Volunteer Week. This initiative not only celebrates the invaluable contributions of volunteers but also serves as a beacon, illuminating the myriad ways individuals can make a difference in St. Marys.
In the words of Brett O’Reilly, “We really couldn’t do some of the amazing things we do in the community without (these volunteers). We really want to take an opportunity to recognize those people as a way of thanking them for their contributions, but also to build awareness about all the great volunteer opportunities that are available at St. Marys.”
As we celebrate these unsung heroes, let us be reminded of the profound impact that acts of kindness, no matter how small, can have on shaping a resilient and thriving community.
