2024 Victoria County Volunteers of the Year!

Marjorie Fougere: A dedicated volunteer in Baddeck, and the driving force behind the Victoria County Hospital Foundation’s most successful fundraiser! With a vision to helping raise funds, Marjorie started a golf tournament that quickly became a popular annual event. Thanks to her drive and energy, the tournament has raised significant funds for the foundation. The success of the tournament is a testament to what one person’s passion, coupled with community spirit, can achieve.

Daniel Nicholson: In 2019, this creative university student took a leap of faith and introduced a novel fundraising idea for the Hospital Foundation—a Duck Race! Daniel engineered a unique finish line that ensured a fair and exciting race, allowing only one duck to pass at a time. Each year, he meticulously sets off 1,300 plastic ducks and a flotilla. Following the race, he collects each duck, ensuring they are ready for their next voyage. The Duck Race has become an annual community fundraiser drive for the young and old in Baddeck.

Gorden MacKay: Well-known Baddeck resident Gorden MacKay’s unwavering kindness and community spirit is embraced by many. Born with an intellectual disability, it’s never dampened his friendly demeanor and outreach to others. When his mother moved into Alderwood Care Centre in Baddeck, Gorden’s daily visits became a beacon of joy, not just for her but for all the residents. His move to Alderwood in 2020 only deepened his role as the heart of recreation at the Centre. With a funny quip always at the ready, he lifts the spirits of those returning from the hospital, asking nothing in return but the joy of their company.

Greg Redquest:  As an employee of the Freshmart grocer in Ingonish, Greg has become the unsung hero of the aisles. His day extends beyond the routine of stocking shelves; he is a lifeline for those confined to their homes. Whether due to age or circumstance, he ensures that no one is left without essentials, personally grocery shopping for them with care and attention. His kindness doesn’t stop at the doorstep; he offers rides, assists with errands, and delivers food with a smile that’s as nourishing as the meals he brings. In a place where everyone knows your name, he is more than an employee—he is a helper and a friend.  

Nancy Cronin: Since joining the Ross Ferry Stewardship Society in 2021 as a Volunteer Coordinator, Nancy has been the driving force behind a surge in community involvement. Her innovative strategies for recruiting volunteers has significantly bolstered the society’s membership, sparking a new-found awareness of both the society and the Ross Ferry Marine Park. Nancy’s creative outreach methods are infused with her positive energy and keen ability to draw the Ross Ferry community together.

BOLD Community Centre: In the heart of Baddeck, the BOLD organization stands as a beacon of community spirit and engagement. Driven by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors, BOLD is more than just a day camp for kids and seniors’ community center—it’s a vibrant hub that embodies the essence of community. With a mission to foster a positive impact through diverse programming, BOLD welcomes over 300 participants monthly, and spans all age groups. It’s a place where recreation meets mental and physical well-being, offering a supportive environment for young families adapting to rural life and ensuring accessibility for all community members.

Waterfront Baddeck:  Championed by a dedicated group of volunteers, Waterfront Baddeck is passionate to revitalize the Village waterfront. This team, united in preservation but looking towards future development, has devoted innumerable hours to enhance Kidston Island’s natural beauty. From gathering climate change data to ensuring their efforts are informed and impactful, they work in collaboration with the Baddeck Lions Club, to upkeep the scenic trails, fostering a connection between nature and the community. Their relentless pursuit of funding for the boardwalk’s redevelopment is a testament to their determination to create a space that is not only a hub for community gatherings but also a driver of economic sustainability.