Local seniors recognized by Province

By Mark Pavilons

Two area residents have been honoured by the Province with Ontario Senior Achievement Awards.

A total of 15 seniors were singled out for their outstanding seniors for their exceptional contributions to their communities and to the province.

“Congratulations to this year's Ontario Senior Achievement Awards recipients,” said the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. “Seniors across the province have felt most directly the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and it is a delight to be able to celebrate the positive difference seniors make to our communities. (Today's) recipients are role models to Ontarians of all ages.”

The seniors being recognized are dedicated and compassionate individuals who are helping to improve the lives of older adults through community services and humanitarian activities.

This includes fundraising, helping with Meals and Wheels programs, and volunteering in local churches, retirement homes and long-term-care homes.

They support and empower seniors by serving as mentors, environmental stewards, agricultural ambassadors, and educational, cultural, and artistic organizers.

“I'm inspired and encouraged by this year's Senior Achievement Award recipients,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “On behalf of all Ontarians, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for their exceptional service to their communities. You have all made a profound difference in the lives of seniors across our province.”

Pat Kolb of Bolton has been a dedicated community volunteer for more than 30 years. She has delivered for Meals on Wheels, and when that was not possible due to the pandemic, she transitioned to doing weekly telephone wellness checks for seniors and people with disabilities. Pat also volunteers with youth through her work with Peel 4-H. In addition, she is a passionate advocate for farm and agricultural issues and volunteers with the Albion-Bolton Fall Fair.

Janice Preiss of Beeton is a pioneer in the benefits of pet therapy. A lifelong dog lover, she started a pet therapy program for senior residents at Simcoe Village and Manor 33 years ago and has since trained many volunteers, while also serving as a member of the local St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog program.

Janice also raises funds for many community initiatives and has received several awards for community service.

The recipients were recognized by the Lieutenant Governor and Minister at a virtual recognition ceremony.

Older adults are the province's fastest growing demographic, and by 2023, there will be three million Ontarians over the age of 65.

The Ontario Senior Achievement Award was created in 1987 to recognize outstanding seniors who, after the age of 65, have made significant contributions to their communities.

Since 1986, the Ontario Senior Achievement Awards have recognized 660 outstanding seniors.