- Alena Barreca
- Brittany Harpell
- Janice Bechamp
- Kathryn Gray
- Kristy Chambers
- Lou Divita
- Melanie Austin
- Samantha Lernout
Citizen of the Year Awards
Each year, the Township of Wilmot proudly recognizes residents who made outstanding contributions to our community during the previous calendar year. These awards celebrate the commitment, generosity, and hard work of the volunteers and community builders who help make Wilmot a wonderful place to live.
2026 winners
After careful consideration of nearly 800 eligible votes, two incredible individuals have emerged as the winners of the 2026 Citizen of the Year awards:
- Kristy Chambers - Community Service category
- Shirley Mennel - Seniors category
Awards will be presented by Mayor Natasha Salonen during the New Hamburg Fall Fair opening ceremonies on Friday, September 18 at 6:45 p.m. Certificates will also be given to all 2026 Citizen of the Year Award nominees.
Community Service winner
Kristy Chambers
Kristy’s long-standing community involvement spans schools, sports, local events and charitable initiatives. She serves on the board for the New Hamburg Fall Fair, has chaired the Grandview Public School Parent Council for several years, and volunteers at Forest Glen Public School. She has also supported The Breakfast Club of Wilmot, the New Hamburg Firebirds, 100 Women Who Care, International Women’s Day and The Terry Fox Run. At Grandview, Kristy leads fundraisers and has organized the Fun Fair for more than a decade. Through her business, she creates volunteer opportunities and provides free personal training, memberships and classes. She also shares her passion for sport as head coach of the U11 Girls Wilmot Blue softball team.
Seniors winner
Shirley Mennel
For decades, Shirley has given her time to causes that support health, wellness and community care. Her volunteer work includes serving with the Wilmot & Wellesley Resource Centre food bank and supporting outpatient chemotherapy care at the Grand River Regional Cancer Centre for more than 20 years. She has also contributed to the Great Ride and Stride for Cancer and has volunteered with Children’s Wish/Make-A-Wish for more than 30 years. More recently, Shirley began helping with the Blood Donor Clinic at Steinman Church in Baden. Her many years of service reflect a steady commitment to improving the lives of others and strengthening the community around her.
2026 nominees
- Arlene McBride
- Helen Rempel
- Shirley Mennel
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