By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Community heroes live among us. They go about their day largely unnoticed, yet brighten lives through acts of kindness and compassion. Their contributions make the community stronger.
Recognizing those who embody the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” was a natural fit for the Rotary Club of Tilbury, which encourages individuals to make the world a better place through selfless service. The club’s Community Heroes initiative is a way of saying: We see you.
The recognition doesn’t come with a monetary prize or a trophy. It’s a simple gesture from those who appreciate the dedication of others and want to say thank you.
Rotary Community Heroes began as a way to honour individuals who have given generously of themselves. Each year, Rotarians contribute to the Rotary International Foundation to support global humanitarian projects. When a member’s giving reaches a certain level, they receive one of Rotary’s highest honours — the Paul Harris Award.
Over time, the Rotary Club of Tilbury earned several of these awards through the “Every Rotarian Every Year” program. The club chose to share these honours with community members who also give selflessly to improve the lives of others.
Initially, recipients were selected by the club — often individuals who hosted Youth Exchange students or supported the Interact program, Rotary’s initiative for youth. This year, the club invited the community to nominate individuals who exemplify Rotary’s values, as seen through the eyes of their peers.
Recipients of this year’s awards received a Paul Harris pin and certificate, along with notification that $1,000 has been donated in their name to support global efforts through Rotary International.
One of this year’s honourees is Annette Curtis Thibert, recognized for her service to her church through her dedication to the choir and her efforts in beautifying the grounds by planting and caring for planters each year. Her work with the Tilbury Horticultural Society, where she now serves as president, was also cited. One of her first acts in that role was to nominate several longtime members for provincial recognition for their years of service in beautifying the town. In addition, Thibert devoted herself to the care of a sick friend over many months.
The second recipient is Elizabeth Imeson Innes, honoured for her decades of volunteer service to several local organizations. Innes has been a familiar face at Tilbury Funfests, the Comber Fair gates and youth dances hosted by the Tilbury Area Action Team and sponsored by Tilbury Rotary. If help was needed, she was there — often volunteering for long hours and multiple shifts. This year, she continued to fundraise and support the Terry Fox Run, despite facing personal and family challenges related to the disease.
The Rotary Club of Tilbury encourages residents to congratulate this year’s recipients and to submit nominations for the 2024 Rotary Community Heroes Awards. The club remains committed to recognizing those who make a difference — one act of kindness at a time.
