by Betty Bardswich
SANDFIELD—The Big Lake Women’s Institute (WI) held its annual luncheon at the community centre on June 18 and also presented the Sandfield Citizen of the Year Award. WI President Carrene English informed her audience that Audrey Haggart was this year’s recipient of the award and there were audible gasps of delight and enthusiastic clapping.
“Several years ago,” Ms. English began, “a newly retired couple from Sudbury moved to our community. They love it here and it wasn’t long before this lady became known as the caregiver in the community. If you are sick, she appears with chicken soup; if grieving, a full meal for the entire gathered family. Audrey has been a very active member of the Big Lake Women’s Institute for 19 years. She has held the position of secretary of this organization in the past and is presently in the position of Comfort Convenor and sends out cards to members and friends of the Institute who are unwell, grieving or celebrating happy occasions. Audrey does a terrific job in the position. In the past she has volunteered her services to help the Big Lake Community Association when they held their fundraising steak and fish dinners.”
Ms. English went on to list many more good deeds Ms. Haggart has done including volunteering at the Manitoulin Family Resources (MFR) thrift store and food bank and helping to prepare the Christmas food hampers. She has also helped the Missionary Church choir and the junior Sunday school class. Yearly she can be seen canvassing door to door for the Canadian Cancer Society. Ms. Haggart also has driven folks to Sudbury for medical appointments.
Ms. English finished her remarks by saying, “Audrey has always been a shining example of what kindness and being a good neighbour is all about. Audrey loves everyone and everyone loves her. She is presently going through a difficult time and we hope receiving this much deserved award will make her realize just how much she is loved and appreciated for all she has done.”
Past WI President Ruby Lavigne of Fesserton was also on hand. “I was actually asked to come and present something to Audrey. She does so much for others,” she said as she pinned a beautiful corsage on Ms. Haggart’s dress.
MPP Michael Mantha also attended the luncheon and congratulated Ms. Haggart on her volunteer work and pointed out that volunteers do this because it is what is needed, not for accolades. He also brought greetings from MP Carol Hughes who told Ms. Haggart that she is an inspiration to everyone.
The award ceremony ended as WI member Pat Dryden gave Ms. Haggart a smaller plaque that she could take home.
