General News

Simcoe County celebrates National Volunteer Week

April 23, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The County of Simcoe is celebrating National Volunteer Week from April 19 to 25.

This is to recognize the remarkable individuals who generously contribute their time, skills, and compassion across the County’s long-term care homes, seniors’ services locations, Paramedic Services, and the Simcoe County Museum.

This year’s national theme is ‘Ignite Volunteerism – celebrating the power of civic participation and renewing Canada’s culture of volunteering.’

This theme reflects the spirit of the county’s volunteers whose contributions continue to have a positive impact across the region.

“Volunteers are the heart of our communities,” said Simcoe County Warden Basil Clarke. “Their generosity, compassion, and commitment strengthen our services and enrich the lives of residents across Simcoe County every single day. During National Volunteer Week, we proudly celebrate not only the individuals who give their time in support of the County of Simcoe, but all those who chose to champion a cause close to their hearts. On behalf of county council, thank you for igniting community spirit and helping us build a stronger, more caring Simcoe County.”

In 2025, 223 Simcoe Strong volunteers supported staff and residents at Georgian Manor and Village, Simcoe Manor and Village, Sunset Manor and Village, and Trillium Manor by contributing more than 8,500 hours of their time to enhance programs and services.

The Simcoe County Museum benefited from 43 volunteers who contributed 1,794 hours, assisting with events, exhibits, and public programming.

In addition, County of Simcoe Paramedic Services staff donated 740 hours of their own time to community education and outreach, including school visits, seniors’ clubs, career days, the annual Food and Toy Drive, and various county events.

The county also launched the Resident Ambassador Program within Seniors Services, supported by the Seniors Community Grant Program. Approximately 30 resident ambassadors across Georgian Village, Simcoe Village, and Sunset Village have been leading workshops, hosting veterans teas, welcoming new residents, and supporting community engagement.

Plans are underway to expand this successful initiative into the County’s Long Term Care Homes.

To honour these contributions, the County is hosting a series of Simcoe Strong Volunteer Appreciation events across its long-term care and seniors services sites, featuring meals, gifts, photo presentations, and years of service recognition.

The Simcoe County Museum will also continue its annual volunteer celebrations, including its popular holiday appreciation event.   

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