Manitoulin-North Shore Victims Services celebrates 30 years – names Volunteer of the Year

By Rosalind Russell – Manitoulin Northshore Victim Services (MNVS) celebrated its 30th anniversary at the Espanola Golf and Country Club on Saturday, bringing together supporters and volunteers from across the North shore Corridor and Manitoulin Island.

Executive director, Cynthia Stewart, who led the evening’s presentations says for three decades, the agency has provided 24/7 crisis support to individuals and families experiencing some of life’s most difficult moments. 

She says the evening featured remarks from founding members and board representatives, a volunteer recognition ceremony, including two directors with 30 years, and two more who have been with the agency for 28 years.

The evening was capped off with the presentation of the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award to Lynn O’Farrell, recognized for her long-standing dedication to social services and her exceptional advocacy for victims in the community.

Each volunteer was recognized and noted for their years of service with the organization.

New Volunteers: Kate, Cynthia, Spencer, Leah. Lynn (1 year), Jessica (2 years), Ralph (3 years), Debbie (10 years), Renee (11 years), Pam (15 years), Joe (18 years), Doris (28 years), Gloria (28 years)

Board of Directors: Christine (8 years), K.T. (12 years), Leanne (25 years), Patricia (30 years), Al (30 years)

Staff: Kathy, Genevieve, Cindy, Jessica, Cynthia

The evening also included entertainment by comedian Dylan Gott and music by the Moonlight Buskers, along with a silent auction and community acknowledgements. 

Supper was provided by Good Enuf To Eat.

Photos by Rosalind Russell

This entry was posted in Local, News. Bookmark the permalink.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *