The Town of Renfrew is proud to open nominations for the annual The Town of Renfrew is proud to open nominations for the annual Citizen of the Year Awards, sponsored by ontrac Employment Resource Services!

These awards are a great opportunity to recognize the outstanding individuals and organizations that make our community a better place to live.

Do you know an individual or group who go above and beyond to support others, strengthen our community, or lead with kindness and dedication? Now is your chance to shine a spotlight on their efforts.

Award Categories:

• Citizen of the Year (Individual only) 
• Community Champion of the Year (Individual or group)
• Youth Volunteer (Aged 25 and under - Individual or group)
• Senior Volunteer (Aged 65 and older - Individual or group)
• Non-Profit of the Year (Must be a registered charity, non-profit, or not-for-profit organization in Canada)

Who Can Be Nominated?

• Individuals must live in the Town of Renfrew.
• Non-profit organizations or groups must operate within the Town of Renfrew. 

How Do I Nominate Someone?

Submit your nomination by emailing Hannah MacMillan at hmacmillan@renfrew.ca with the subject line: “2025 Citizen of the Year Awards”, or drop it off in-person at:

• Town Hall
• The myFM Centre Office
• Renfrew Public Library

Your nomination must include:

• Your full name and phone number and/or email address.
• The nominee’s full name, address, and contact details.
• The category you are nominating them for.
• A detailed description of their contributions and why they deserve to be recognized.

How are nominees and winners selected?
In February 2025, Renfrew Town Council appointed Councillor Jason Legris to serve on the Citizen of the Year nomination committee. He is joined by four additional confidential members: one Town staff member, two representatives from the community, and one individual from the business or non-profit sector. A public call for expressions of interest to join the committee was issued throughout March and April, allowing residents to apply and help shape this year’s awards.

Deadline to submit nominations: Wednesday, June 11 at 2:00 PM

Please note: Nominees are judged solely on the details provided in your submission, so take the time to tell their story and highlight the impact they’ve made.

Nominees will be announced the week of June 16, and winners will be revealed during a special Volunteer Award Ceremony at the Town of Renfrew’s Canada Day celebrations

Let’s recognize and celebrate those who make Renfrew such a special place to call home.

Submit your nomination today!

Nomination Categories

Citizen of the Year

The "Citizen of the Year" award recognizes an individual who has made a significant, positive impact on the Town of Renfrew. Nominations should highlight those who have demonstrated exceptional community involvement, volunteerism, or leadership for local initiatives, events, or organizations. We’re looking for people who inspire others through their kindness, dedication, and commitment to making Renfrew a better place to live, work, and play. This could include volunteering, advocating for community needs, supporting local businesses, or promoting sustainability and inclusion. Long-term service, cultural contributions, and acts of kindness also make a nominee stand out. If someone has made a lasting difference in our town – in whatever shape or form - we encourage you to nominate them!

Community Champion of the Year

The Community Champion of the Year award celebrates individuals of any age who make a lasting impact through their everyday dedication to others. These are the people who uplift the spirit of Renfrew by showing up, offering support, and quietly making life better for those around them. Whether they’re helping a neighbor, lending time to local efforts, or spreading kindness in simple, meaningful ways, their actions strengthen the fabric of our community. If you know someone whose steady generosity and care bring out the best in Renfrew, nominate them for this special recognition award. 

Youth Volunteer of the Year

The "Youth Volunteer of the Year" award recognizes a young person (18 and under) who has made a positive impact in the Town of Renfrew through their dedication to volunteering. This award honors youth who give their time and energy to support local events, organizations, or causes, demonstrating leadership, compassion, and a commitment to making their community better. Whether through helping others, organizing activities, or lending a hand in times of need, this award celebrates the spirit of volunteerism in young people. If you know a young person who goes above and beyond in service to our community, nominate them for this well-deserved recognition!

Senior Volunteer of the Year

The "Senior Volunteer of the Year" award honours a senior citizen (aged 65+) who has made a significant impact in the Town of Renfrew through their volunteer efforts. This award recognises those who dedicate their time and skills to supporting local organisations, events, or causes, demonstrating leadership, compassion, and a commitment to improving the community. Whether through mentoring, organising activities, or offering support to others, this award celebrates the valuable contributions of seniors to our community. If you know a senior who consistently goes above and beyond in service to Renfrew, nominate them for this well-deserved recognition!

Non-Profit Organization of the Year

**Must be a registered Charity/Non-Profit/Not-for-Profit in Canada

The "Non-Profit Organization of the Year" award recognises a registered non-profit organisation that has made a significant impact in the Town of Renfrew. This award honours an organisation that demonstrates outstanding dedication to improving the community through its programs, services, or initiatives. Nominees should show a clear commitment to supporting local residents, addressing community needs, and making a lasting positive difference. Whether through providing resources, supporting vulnerable populations, or running community-building projects, this award celebrates the vital role non-profits play in our town. If you know a registered non-profit that has gone above and beyond in service to Renfrew, nominate them for this deserving recognition!