North Perth is celebrating its Citizen for the Year and North Perth Award Recipients. Council gave out their awards during Volunteer Appreciation Night on Wednesday held at the Elma Memorial Community Centre in Atwood.
Lucille Wittnebel has been named as the Norm Stirling Citizen of the Year who’s life is a testament to resilience, kindness and unwavering dedication who’s life is one defined by service, strength and compassion.
Lucille began volunteering at Listowel Memorial Hospital more than 30 years ago. From the Gift Shop to the patient floors, ER, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, and Diagnostic Imaging, she has given her time, heart and energy without hesitation. In 1997, she became a driving force behind the hospital’s Breast Assessment Center, where she continues to serve to this day.
Joan MacDonald has been named as the Celebrate North Perth Inspiration Award.
Joan has been a dedicated volunteer with VON Perth-Huron since 2012 holding several roles including delivering meals monthly through the Meals on Wheels Program, supporting both the team and clients at the Adult Day Program, and assisting in the office by making reminder and check-in calls to clients of the Cool-Aid Program.
Over 58 years ago, Joan became a resident of North Perth. Along with her husband Bob, they nurtured their two children Crystal and Terry – affectionately known as Toad and Mouse – in Donegal. They proudly cherish five grandchildren and one great-grandson.
Other Inspiration Award winners includes;
Tyler Martin:
Born and raised on a dairy farm in Listowel, Tyler experience volunteerism from an early age. His father volunteered with the Listowel Agricultural Hall and his mother with the Diabetes Association. Following closely in his parents’ footsteps, Tyler has also spent time canvassing the neighbourhood for the Diabetes Association. As a resident of Atwood since 2008, Tyler has been a member of the Atwood Lions for 15 years, undertaking roles such as president, bulletin editor, Chair of the Pathway through the Park Committee and participating in various other committees including the Outdoor Rink Committee, Light the Park, Parade Float and Witches Walk. His community involvement also embraces Atwood United Church where he serves as board chair and Stewardship chair.
Christin Dennis:
Christin Dennis has been a resident of Listowel since 2006, along with his wife Helen and their two sons, Seth and Sam. Christin is Indigenous, from Aamjiwnaang First Nation in Sarnia, and is a Sixties Scoop Survivor. He was removed from his home community at the age of six as part of the Sixties Scoop and was adopted by a non-Indigenous family. As a result of losing access to his language and culture at a young age, it has been Christin’s mission to reconnect with his traditions.
Warren Wray:
Warren Wray is a shining example of a life well-lived and generously shared. With a rich tapestry of experiences across multiple careers, Warren found his true calling in his 40s as a caring and engaged educator. For two decades, he has poured his heart into teaching—primarily in kindergarten at Eastdale Public School—where his students felt deeply supported, and families felt genuinely included through the many thoughtful and creative activities he organized. Beyond the classroom, Warren is a devoted friend and a pillar in the community, often seen on the sidelines cheering on youth at local sports events or performances, making those in his life feel valued. As a dedicated member of Atwood United Church, he serves as treasurer and frequently helps lead hymns, embodying the spirit of service in both quiet and visible ways. Warren also brings joy and talent to the stage as a regular performer with the Grey Wellington Theatre Guild, enriching the local arts scene with his presence.
Kailey Brock has been named as the Youth Impact Award winner.
Kailey Brock is an eighth-grade student at Westfield Elementary School. She tutors several young individuals in reading and writing and is a beloved babysitter. A very kind-hearted young lady, at 13 years old she is not only helpful around home but has proven her love of volunteering out in the community. Kailey possesses a very sunny disposition and has been an active member of Kin Cares for 3 years. She regularly volunteers at events such as the Teddy Bear Play Day, BBQ fundraisers for Kids Help Phone, hockey tournaments, and distributing candy during parades. During the holiday season, she can be found helping with the Salvation Army Christmas Kettle, singing at the hospital and handing out candy canes.
