The Town of Petrolia recognized four standout volunteers and an emergency response team at this year's Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.
Mayor Brad Loosley presented Susan Laker, Paul Gordon, Roger Mailloux and Ross Ellsworth with Volunteer of the Year awards for 2020 and 2021. Loosley also recognized the area's Special Operations Response Team (SORT) at Thursday's dinner.
Laker was recognized for her work with the Lions Club, Legion, Christmas for Everyone Luncheon, Baconfest and more.
Gordon is a community volunteer, a member of the Community Services Advisory Committee and a lifelong supporter of LCDS.
Mailloux has roles with the Central Lambton Family Health Team, CEE Hospital Foundation, Petrolia Community Fund, Rotary Club and is a major donor to the Pat Mailloux Cataract Clinic.
Ellsworth was recognized for being a key volunteer at events and the Playhouse, and for being a member of the Optimist Club, Trails and Advisory committees.
One of SORT's significant roles during the pandemic included helping implement a plan for the COVID drive-through assessment centre. They also supported mass vaccination clinics held at the local arena by providing monitoring and logistics support.
Each of the honourees was awarded a framed certificate from the mayor, and a glass award with the town's clock tower on the face, and bouquets of flowers.
Service Club members, Town Committees, Victoria Playhouse Petrolia volunteers, and many other groups were also recognized at the event.
"It is my pleasure to recognize these volunteers for their exceptional service in the Town of Petrolia," said Mayor Loosley. "I would like to also, once again, express my gratitude for each of you, and the role that you play in making our town a well-known community, and for giving so freely of your time and expertise. We thank you!"
Ninety-five people attended the event at the Petrolia Legion.
A media release from the town said the value for every one hundred volunteers is just over the equivalent of $370,000.00 in man hours.