Annual RAWQ Awards

West Quebecers honour community volunteers

 

Patricia Cassidy

The Regional Association of West Quebecers honoured outstanding volunteers within the English-speaking community of West Quebec at its eleventh annual Awards Banquet, held at Aylmer’s Aydelu Centre, October 24. Aylmer was well-represented with three of the awards going to local residents. Gatineau councillor Sylvie Goneau, mentioning the military in particular, spoke briefly but passionately about the ways in which we are touched by volunteers, and guest speaker, Michael Randall, Director General of CÉGEP Heritage College, presented an overview of the College’s twenty-five years of involvement with the Outaouais community. 

 

Aylmer’s honoured 

 

Eveline McCormick received the Graham Greig Award for Outstanding Community Service. She was recognized for driving neighbours and friends to medical appointments, collecting clothing and food for the needy, and helping out at the Legion. Rhoda and Wilfrid Scott were presented with the award for Health and Social Service.  Their volunteer activities include guiding clients to the CLSC for help, using their home as a stock room for the Feed a Child program and moving furniture. The recent West Quebecers Youth Skills Program  would not have taken place without Rhoda’s assistance.

Irish-born harmonica player, Don Kavanagh received The Arts and Culture Award. Don grew up with traditional music and, since coming to Canada in 1954, has shared his talent and knowledge, introducing audiences to this heritage music, and inspiring and encouraging many local musicians. Over the years, Don has participated in and helped to promote fund-raising concerts for many charitable organizations and causes in the region and beyond. 

In addition to the regular awards, a special Life Membership was presented to former RAWQ President, Noel Gates, for his many years of service to the Association and to the English-speaking 

community of West Quebec.  The other awards were presented to notable community leaders from the Pontiac, the Gatineau Hills, and the city of Gatineau.