Brantford paid tribute to the spirit of service Thursday evening, as more than 600 people gathered to honour the contributions of local volunteers during the city’s annual Volunteer Recognition Celebration.
The event, held in partnership with the Brantford Volunteer and Recognition Awards (BRAVA), coincided with National Volunteer Week, which runs from April 27 to May 3 under the national theme “Volunteers Make Waves.”
The theme recognizes the powerful impact of volunteers across Canada — a message clearly reflected in Brantford’s own civic landscape.
“This is our chance as a city to express our gratitude,” said Lori-Dawn Cavin, Manager of Community Recreation and Events with the City of Brantford.
“We have over 850 registered municipal volunteers, but the true number of those giving back — through non-profits, neighbourhood associations, and grassroots programs — is far greater”, she added.
Among those recognized was Chris Tolhurst, a longtime volunteer whose efforts began 25 years ago when he helped maintain an outdoor skating rink in his backyard.
Since then, he has coached youth sports, led neighbourhood groups, and helped promote multicultural events, including the Brantford International Villages Festival.
Joanne Murray, Kiwanis Club and
Chris Tolhurst, Prince Charles Neighbourhood Association
“Volunteering has allowed me to meet incredible people,” said Tolhurst, who recently received the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
“It’s never been about accolades. But being acknowledged like this is truly humbling”, he told BrantBlog.
Much of Tolhurst’s work has focused on creating opportunities for young people.
“Whether it’s through recreation or culture, supporting youth has always been at the heart of what I do,” he said.
Brantford Councillor Richard Carpenter echoed that sentiment, calling volunteerism the foundation of strong neighbourhoods.
“Everyone contributes in their own way — whether it’s running a local program or shovelling a neighbour’s driveway,” said Carpenter, who has spent decades helping seniors on his street.
“If everyone looked out for the person next to them, no one would be alone”.
While the evening celebrated those already making an impact, Cavin noted the ongoing need for more helping hands.
“Volunteer demand is growing, especially as more community programs emerge. Our focus is on making volunteer opportunities meaningful, aligned with people’s interests, and rewarding,” she said.
As Brantford continues to mark National Volunteer Week, residents are being encouraged to consider how small gestures — from lending a hand to joining a formal initiative — can generate lasting change.
For Tolhurst, the message is simple: “There’s always more to give. And I plan to keep doing just that.”
