Brock Township recently hosted its Volunteer Appreciation Night 2026 at the Beaverton Legion, honouring the dedicated individuals who have served on Council’s boards and committees over the past four years. The event recognized volunteers appointed in 2022 who have contributed their time and expertise to local governance, helping ensure that Council decisions reflect the needs and values of the community.
Many of the volunteers recognized have served for well over a decade, contributing not only to municipal committees but also to countless other community organizations that strengthen the Township of Brock. The evening highlighted the vital role these individuals play in shaping the municipality and supporting local initiatives across Brock, Beaverton, Cannington, and Sunderland.
Among the committees honoured was the Brock Accessibility Advisory Committee, a legislated body that advocates for persons with disabilities and ensures the municipality complies with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. The committee makes recommendations to Council on strategies to remove barriers and improve accessibility throughout the township.
The Non-Profit Sector Advisory Committee was also recognized for its work advising Council on the role and importance of non-profit organizations in the community. This committee has identified opportunities for collaboration between the municipality and community partners, strengthening the local social fabric.
The Brock Tourism Advisory Committee received appreciation for its contributions to tourism services and community-based initiatives within the township. The committee’s input helped inform the recently adopted Visitor Growth Plan, which will guide municipal tourism priorities from 2026 through 2029. The Tourism Working Group, supported by Central Counties Tourism, was also acknowledged for auditing Brock’s visitor offerings and identifying gaps and opportunities for growth.
The Brock Board of Trade serves as Council’s direct link to the business community, and its membership and board of directors provide valuable insight for municipal decision-making while supporting a wide range of local businesses. The Township of Brock Public Library Board was recognized for working with the Library CEO to execute the organization’s mission and ensure excellent services and programs continue at community libraries, which serve as vital hubs providing free resources to thousands of residents each year.
Community organizations celebrated at the event included the Manilla Hall Community Association, which promotes community use of the hall through events like pie sales, children’s parties, fiddle jams, and community luncheons. The former Wilfrid Hall Community Association was acknowledged for its longstanding dedication to community building and fundraising events.
The Sunderland Town Hall Ad-hoc Liaison Committee was recognized for preserving the historical significance of the Sunderland Town Hall and providing input on capital projects including the accessible entrance. The municipality’s Livestock Valuers were thanked for their essential work with local farmers, conducting investigations and providing information as required by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness.
The Committee of Adjustment, a legislated planning body, was acknowledged for its valuable function in making decisions regarding severances, lot line adjustments, and minor variances to the Township’s Zoning By-law in accordance with the Planning Act.
The evening served as a powerful reminder of the impact that volunteerism has on the Township of Brock. Whether through advising Council, preserving community spaces, supporting accessibility, culture, business, tourism, or governance, the contributions of these volunteers have a lasting and meaningful impact on the entire community. Council, staff, and residents expressed their gratitude for the time, energy, and expertise shared by all those recognized at the 2026 Volunteer Appreciation Night.
