The City of Owen Sound is recognizing several volunteers for their work in the community.
After cancelling the Arts and Culture Awards, the city held its Volunteer and Senior Awards Monday afternoon.
The 2025 award recipients include:
-Olive Boroski, Youth Volunteer of the Year
-Dave Barber, Volunteer of the Year
-Jeff Nickel, Volunteer of the Year
-Evelyn Barnes, Senior of the Year.
Mayor Ian Boddy says Boroski is a high school student in Owen Sound and was nominated by United Way of Grey Bruce Executive Director Francesca Dobbyn.
“Banditfest is a grassroots music and arts festival founded by Olive to showcase emerging youth talent and foster community engagement. She is described by her nominator as an innovative leader with the ability to foster collaboration, making her a role model among her peers. Olive is also an active volunteer with Owen Sound Farmers’ Market, United Way of Grey Bruce and Summerfolk,” says Boddy.
Barber was nominated on behalf of the Silversea of Owen Sound, a non-profit group which supports the community through service.
“Over the past year, Dave has volunteered for 579 hours at various events like Hockeyfest, the Owen Sound hospital, Owen Sound Attack games, school breakfast programs, the home show, community barbeques, the Owen Sound Spectacular, and Salvation food drives,” says Boddy. “He is also known throughout the region for his effort volunteering with several election campaigns.”
Nickel was nominated by Owen Sound Minor Basketball.
“Jeff is an Owen Sound resident and founder and driving force behind Owen Sound Minor Basketball. His role includes overseeing all aspects of the league, including program development, scheduling, coordinating with Junior NBA, managing other volunteers, registrations, and ensuring a positive experience for all participants. Jeff also takes an active coaching role, working directly with young people to develop their skills, teamwork and a love for the game,” says Boddy.
Barnes was nominated for Senior of the Year on behalf of Scenic City Lion’s Club of Owen Sound.
“Described by her nominator as a perfect example to all Lions, encouraging members to participate in Lions opportunities. Evelyn has been an involved dedicated Lioness and Lion for 48 years,” says Boddy. “She has helped the Order of Good Cheer with their festival in the park for the past 10 years.”
Boddy thanked all volunteers in Owen Sound for sharing their time and expertise to make the city a better place to live.
