Betty Andersen was presented with the Puslinch Volunteer of the Year award at the Aug. 13 township council meeting.
Mayor Dennis Lever commented that Wellington County did have a volunteer program that ended last winter.
“Council here still felt it was very important that we recognize volunteers in our community,” said Lever.
As a result, staff helped draft a volunteer appreciation program for the township.
“I’m very pleased to announce Betty Andersen as our first recipient for the volunteer award,” Lever said, adding Andersen has been an integral part of the Puslinch community for many years.
Andersen was an inaugural member of the Puslinch Historical Society in 1984 and acted as secretary for 18 years. From 2007 to 2014 she served as president.
“Betty’s keen interest in local governance and education policies led to her involvement with the Puslinch Pioneer and the University of Guelph’s animal health committee,” said Lever.
She also serves on the current board of the cemetery committee of the Danish Sunset Villa Association.
Lever continued, “Her wealth of genealogical knowledge has enabled her to answer many questions for many families in Puslinch.
“Betty has dedicated a tremendous amount of number of volunteer hours while balancing her family life and work as a market gardener.”
She is also a talented artist and shown many of her prize-winning hooked rugs at the Aberfoyle Fall Fair.
“Puslinch is extremely fortunate to have this extraordinary woman as a resident. Her tireless energy is a remarkable example to the entire community,” Lever remarked.
“On behalf of Puslinch council, thank you for all the effort you have put in and your countless hours as a volunteer over the years.
“We’re very pleased to have you as the first recipient of this award.”
Andersen said, “I feel very honoured to receive this and to be the first volunteer. Thank you all. I’ll remember it forever.”
