BROCKVILLE CHAMBER ANNOUNCES LIFETIME VOLUNTEER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
The Brockville and District Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Mary Mansworth as recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award. With a legacy of selfless service spanning nearly five decades, Mary’s dedication to community building, social advocacy, and volunteerism has left an indelible mark on countless lives.
Mary’s journey of community service began in 1976 when she and her husband, Colman, moved to Brockville from London, Ontario. Since then, she has been a pillar of the YMCA of Eastern Ontario, dedicating decades of volunteer service. She further extended her impact at the national level, serving on the YMCA Canada National Board from 1999 to 2002. In recognition of her exceptional service, she was awarded the YMCA Fellowship Honor in 2017.
Beyond her YMCA contributions, Mary has taken on numerous leadership roles. She has served as chair of the Brockville Municipal Non-Profit Housing Corporation, president of the Brockville and Area YMCA board, board member of the Brockville Community Foundation, and Commodore of the Brockville Yacht Club. Her deep commitment to education was recognized when she received an Honorary Diploma from St. Lawrence College in 2017, and she continues to serve as a board member of the St. Lawrence College Foundation.
Mary’s passion for humanitarian efforts is evident through her work with the Brockville Refugee Committee, helping resettle Vietnamese refugees in 1978 and Syrian refugees in 2016. Additionally, she has played a crucial role in the Wall Street Village Affordable Seniors’ Housing Project, which is developing an 85-unit affordable housing complex for seniors in Brockville.
Her tireless dedication extends to supporting mental health initiatives as a board member of the Child and Youth Mental Wellness Centre of Leeds and Grenville. She co-chairs the annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser, raising significant funds for Loaves and Fishes, a non-profit restaurant dedicated to feeding those in need. Mary is also the co-founder of the Brockville 100 Women Who Care initiative, which supports local charities.
Mary’s commitment to youth development is reflected in her involvement with the Charleston Lake Association’s youth programs, where she fosters community engagement and leadership among young people.
For nearly 50 years, Mary Mansworth has been a driving force in strengthening the Brockville community. Her passion, leadership, and unwavering dedication make her a truly deserving recipient of the Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award. The community extends its deepest gratitude for her lifelong service and celebrates her legacy of kindness, leadership, and positive change.
The Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award is sponsored by the 1000 Islands Community Development Corporation and the Volunteer Centre of St. Lawrence Rideau. Recipients are chosen by an independent committee of judges following review and assessment of multiple criteria including volunteer history, years of service, community impact, mentorship, and personal generosity.
Mrs. Mansworth will be celebrated during a special ceremony following the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting at the Brockville Country Club on Thursday, March 27th.
It was announced earlier that Mr. Shelley Bacon is this year’s Lifetime Business Achievement Award winner. Mr. Bacon will also be celebrated following the Chamber’s AGM.
Those interested in attending can RSVP at the Chamber of Commerce website www.brockvillechamber.com or call 613-342-6553 by March 20th.
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The Brockville and District Chamber of Commerce represents more than 300 members and has been the community’s business advocate since 1906. Our mission is to support and enhance businesses to build a strong economic community through proactive leadership in advocacy and relevant programming.