Volunteers, business owners and community champions were honoured for their contributions to making Mississippi Mills a vibrant place to live, work and play at the fifth annual Mississippi Mills Community Awards.
Family, friends and members of council gathered at Almonte Old Town Hall on May 28 to celebrate the recipients. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed refreshments, desserts and snacks sourced from local Mississippi Mills businesses.
This year’s recipients:
Exceptional Volunteer
- Jenny Sheffield
- Allan Goddard
- Jennifer Hoy
- Bonnie McBain
- Don Willey
Business Champion
- Kris Riendeau
- Sanjeev Sivarulrasa
Community Builder
- Brent Eades
- Mary Rozenberg
“This year’s recipients embody the very best of Mississippi Mills. They are mentors, leaders and collaborators,” said Mayor Christa Lowry. “They bring passion, dedication and heart to everything they do. Their commitment to our community sets a remarkable example for all of us.”
The Exceptional Volunteer award celebrates residents whose generosity and dedication strengthen the community through the gift of their time.
Jenny Sheffield has been part of the cultural heartbeat of Mississippi Mills since childhood, growing up in local arts programs and continuing to champion theatre through the Almonte District High School Drama Club. She has a strong belief in the power of the arts to shape young people.
Landscaping expert Allan Goddard has never stopped beautifying Mississippi Mills, even after retiring from his Almonte landscaping business. He continues to share his knowledge freely, collect and distribute native trees and plants, maintain public gardens and contribute significantly to projects like the Almonte Alameda.
Jennifer Hoy is a tireless volunteer whose leadership has deeply influenced the Mississippi Mills Youth Centre (MMYC), where she currently serves as president. Her commitment extends beyond MMYC to Home Hospice North Lanark, where she lends her skills to the Comfort Care knitting group.
Whether volunteering with her sons’ sports teams years ago or helping children learn to read at Naismith Memorial Public School today, Bonnie McBain has always shown up for her community. Her volunteerism spans the Naismith Foundation, Puppets Up! International Puppet Festival and the Almonte General Hospital.
Affectionately known as “Mr. Light Up the Night,” Don Willey has poured more than 30 years into this beloved holiday tradition. His enthusiasm is contagious and his behind-the-scenes work — from fundraising to recruiting volunteers and sponsors — ensures the event shines year after year.
The Business Champion award recognizes leaders who inspire through their vision and community spirit.
Since 1998, Kris Riendeau, alongside her husband Rob, has operated theHumm, an economic engine disguised as an arts and entertainment publication. By encouraging residents to explore, attend, shop and invest locally, theHumm has become a cornerstone of community life, powered by Kris’ creativity, energy and unwavering commitment.
Born in Sri Lanka and trained in law, Sanjeev Sivarulrasa followed an unexpected path that led him to astronomy, photography and ultimately the creation of Sivarulrasa Gallery. Twelve years later, the gallery has become a defining feature of downtown Almonte, known for its exceptional Canadian artists, professional curation and welcoming atmosphere.
Two outstanding Community Builders were honoured to close the evening. This award recognizes individuals whose long-term contributions demonstrate leadership, vision and dedication to Mississippi Mills.
For more than a decade, Brent Eades has been a driving force behind The Millstone, a volunteer-run news platform that has become essential for local information, culture and connection. He has also built and maintained numerous websites for community organizations, strengthening their digital reach and impact.
Mary Rozenberg has a remarkable ability to unite people around projects that foster pride, remembrance and belonging. Her leadership in the Mississippi Mills Community Poppy Project and the Honouring Our Veterans Banner Program stands as a testament to her deep commitment to honouring others and building community.
Nominations for the 2027 Mississippi Mills Community Awards open in early 2027. Visit the Community Awards webpage for more information.
SOURCE: Mississippi Mills.
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