Mary Poirier has been selected as the 2024 Mayor’s Senior Volunteer Award winner.

Get to know her better and understand what motivates her to make a difference in the community.

Q. What motivates you to continue to give back to the community?
A. Since my kids were little, I have always been involved in volunteering in the community. It keeps me engaged and benefits me physically, socially, and mentally. My husband, David, is involved in giving back as well. We like to participate and give back to the community. It’s just who we are.

Q. What are some of the organizations you volunteer with in Whitby?
A. I have volunteered with many organizations over the years including Scouts, Hockey League, Ringette League, walking dogs for the humane society, cooking meals at The Refuge. I volunteered with the Whitby Legion and for Hospice Durham. Currently I knit items for premature babies and I am a convenor for the Quilting group and Rise and Shine Walking group at the 55+ Recreation Centre. 

Q. What was your first reaction when you heard you were the 2024 Mayor’s Senior Volunteer Award winner?
A. I was shocked and didn’t believe it. There were so many deserving candidates. It’s nice to be recognized but I don’t volunteer to win awards. I do it because it makes me feel good. 

Q. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about volunteering?
A. Don’t think about it, just do it. Find an organization you believe in and do it. Not only are you benefiting others, you are also benefiting yourself.

The Mayor’s Senior Volunteer Award recognizes Whitby residents age 55+ who have demonstrated outstanding and ongoing commitment to volunteerism in the community. To qualify, nominees must be a resident of Whitby, 55 years of age or older, and volunteer their time in any aspect of the community. Nominees are judged based on volunteering at multiple organizations, as well as the type of role and length of time they have spent volunteering.

The award is part of the Town’s commitment to building an active, engaged and connected community.

For more information about the award, visit whitby.ca/55plus.