Downey recognized at King’s volunteer ceremony

Written By MARK PAVILONS

Caledon's Barb Downey received a special honour recently at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Night in King Township.

Downey received the A Special Recognition Award – Non Resident. It's given to individuals for a special contribution made to the community in whole or in part but who reside outside of King.

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,” said King Mayor Steve Pellegrini when he made the presentation.

Downey is a very active member of the Nobleton &  King City Garden Club (Horticulture Society). She was president in 1978-1979, 2008-2011, and was co-president in 2016-2017. She has been involved in the Flower Show committee, the Garden tour committee, and even participates occasionally as a guest speaker to show others how to do flower arranging or how to make floral decorations for one's door. She is currently a director of the society and serves as past-president.

She makes sure that trees are planted at Hill Farm Park with labels to honour the memory of important past members. At the end of the year annual dinner and awards banquet, she is there to help decorate the tables with creations from her garden. She participates in the flower shows, and creates inspiring designs for the club members to admire.

If there is a job to do and no one to do it, then Barb rolls up her sleeves and does the job. When the society wanted members to volunteer to show their gardens to other members, Barb offered her garden. When the society needs people to be at each garden during the Garden Tour, Barb volunteers.

She has designed many of the yearbooks as well. She represents Nobleton & King City Horticulture as she serves as Assistant Director of District 15 (Peel, York Region West, Toronto West). On the Victoria Day Monday, the society has a plant sale and Barb is always there with her ready smile, and lots of information to help people decide on what plants they might like. She also pots up lots of items to be sold for the benefit of the society.

When King Township invited community groups to have a display before the Volunteer Awards were given, Barb manned a booth for the Society.