Midhurst/January 29, 2025 – Last evening, the County of Simcoe hosted the second annual Age-Friendly Recognition Awards, celebrating the achievements of those who have taken significant steps to create inclusive, age-friendly communities
Honorees were chosen by a selection committee in two categories: businesses and individuals. Businesses were acknowledged for their efforts in enhancing services and accessibility, while individuals were celebrated for their dedication to fostering age-friendly communities and improving the quality of life for older adults across the region. The public nomination process took place throughout the second half of 2024.
Congratulations to Individual Age-Friendly Recognition Award recipients:
- Frieda Baldwin, Midland
- Betty Hancey, Collingwood
- Sharon McLean, Barrie
- Tamara Nowak-Lennard, Barrie
- Sylvia Naughton, Barrie
- Keara Sweet, Orillia
- Joe and Jim Soriano, Barrie
- Catherine Ecker, Barrie
- Joe Fecht, Orillia
- Kelly Ritchie, Barrie
- Gertrude King, Wasaga Beach
- Melanie Hopkinson, Collingwood
- Deb Bobechko, Barrie
Congratulations to Age-Friendly Business Recognition Award recipients:
- Information Orillia, Orillia
- Saunders Book Company, Collingwood
- Windlee Farms Maple Syrup, Tiny
- RTO District 17 – Unit 1 (Retired Teachers Organization), Springwater
- 54 Plus Seniors Centre Alliston, New Tecumseth
- The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, Barrie
- Topline Feed and Farm, Tay
- Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery, Springwater
- Habitat for Humanity Huronia Restores, Barrie
- The Transformation Station, Barrie
- Alliston Legion – Branch 171
“We are grateful to the individuals and businesses who are leading the way in helping to create age-friendly communities across Simcoe County. Their dedication to improving the lives of our older adults is inspiring and essential as we continue building an even more inclusive and supportive environment for all.” ~ Basil Clarke, County of Simcoe Warden
“It is an honour to recognize the outstanding contributions of those who have gone above and beyond to support our older adults. From businesses advancing services to individuals advocating for inclusivity, their efforts are integral to shaping a future where all ages can thrive. These exceptional individuals and organizations are showing how important it is to prioritize the well-being and dignity of all.” ~ Jane Sinclair, General Manger, Health and Emergency Services
About the Simcoe County Age-Friendly Community Program
The Age-Friendly Community Program was established in 2016 to increase awareness of the County’s aging population and help businesses and organizations evaluate their environment and service delivery. The County continues to provide resources and assessment tools to help organizations implement age-friendly goals and strategies and adapt to our aging population. For more information on our Age-Friendly Community program visit https://simcoe.ca/residents/seniors/, email agefriendly@simcoe.ca or call 705-726-9300 ext. 3127.
About County of Simcoe
County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.
