The St. Helen’s Hall Board was recognized with a pair of volunteer awards from Township of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh.
At this week's council meeting, the hall's committee was presented with the Outstanding Community Group Award.
Mayor Glen McNeil said the volunteers were all deserving of recognition.
"We would like to take this opportunity to recognize the St. Helen’s Hall Committee," he said. "In 2002, residents banded together to save the former Women’s Institute, which had fallen into disrepair. For the past 20 years, this dedicated group of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh citizens have worked hard to keep the hall updated, relevant, accessible, and affordable for the community use."
One committee member, Lila Rintoul, was also honoured with the Outstanding Individual Award. The former St. Helen's resident continues to serve on the committee despite moving to Blyth. She also led the local 4-H with her husband, served as President of the Women’s Institute and volunteers at the Seniors Dining Program.
Councillor Jennifer Miltenburg, who submitted the nominations for both awards, says Rintoul is an inspiration.
"I've worked with literally hundreds of volunteers and all of them are great people, but Lila, you are remarkable," she said. "Not only have you done it for so long, but you came back to do it. You made me feel very welcome... you're always welcoming and always smiling and I just get exhausted looking at you. You do a spectacular job and congratulations to all of you."
The Township sent its thanks to everyone who participated in the nomination process.
