Caledon’s Senior of the Year instrumental in securing Isola del Liri sister city agreement 

By Zachary Roman

Joe Tersigni said his parents always told him how important it was to help others. 

It's a lesson he's put into action for his entire life. Now 75, Tersigni recently received Caledon's Senior of the Year award for his role in helping secure Caledon's sister city agreement with Isola del Liri in Italy, and his years of volunteerism in the Caledon community. 

Tersigni, a realtor and music promoter, has been living in Caledon for 10 years. As soon as he came to Caledon, he became involved with the non-profit Bolton Italian Cultural Centre.

He helps the Centre fundraise for many initiatives, helps plan all sorts of events, and uses his skills in music management to bring in acts from Italy for the Centre's annual Italian Day events. 

“When someone calls me for something, I'm always there to listen,” said Tersigni. “Sometimes I cut myself too thin, but I do what I have to and I do it without thinking… it's natural.”

Tersigni said the Bolton Italian Cultural Centre is an amazing organization and its members work very well together to accomplish their goals. He said this year's Italian Day event was a great success and that planning work has already begun for next year's event.

“Community is built on getting together… you have to have community events,” said Tersigni. 

Helping Caledon become sister cities with Isola del Liri was special for Tersigni as that's where his parents are from — they came to Canada in 1958. 

“I was the key person in negotiating the deal and bringing it together,” said Tersigni, who, alongside Ward 5 Councillor Tony Rosa, provided translation as they speak Italian. “We made some great connections.”

Tersigni said the sister city agreement is great for business and cultural exchanges and that Caledon has lots in common with Isola del Liri. 

When Tersigni found out he won Caledon's Senior of the Year award, he felt appreciative and humbled. He said it's a reminder that people appreciate all the work that volunteers do.