Municipality of Cumberland Mayor Rod Gilroy presents the municipality’s Youth Representative Volunteer Award to MacKayla Scott (centre) and the Representative Volunteer Award to Sharon Rogers during its annual Volunteer Week celebration in Springhill on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Darrell Cole – Municipality of Cumberland photo
The Municipality of Cumberland recognized more than 30 people for going above and beyond during its Volunteer Week celebration at the Dr. Carson & Marion Murray Community Centre in Springhill on Tuesday, April 21.
The theme of 2026 Volunteer Week is Ignite Volunteerism, reminding everyone that even one small act can start something bigger. By volunteering, people set an example for others to follow and it encourages others to get involved – something that helps the community as a whole grow stronger.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of the Municipality of Cumberland. Across our towns, villages and rural communities, residents give their time, energy and talents to make life better for everyone,” Mayor Rod Gilroy said. “Whether they are coaching youth sports, serving with fire departments, helping at community halls, organizing festivals, supporting seniors, protecting our environment or fundraising for local causes, volunteers strengthen the fabric of our communities every single day.”
“Their efforts create opportunities that might not otherwise exist. They bring neighbours together, build community pride and ensure Cumberland remains a welcoming place to live, work and raise a family. Volunteers are often the first to step forward when there is a need and the last to ask for recognition. Their generosity speaks to the caring spirit that defines our municipality.”
Sharon Rogers was recognized as the municipality’s Representative Volunteer for 2026.
A long-time member of the Oxford Seniors’ Club, Rogers has made a big difference in her community. As president of the Oxford Seniors Club for five years, Rogers helped grow membership from 27 to 203.
She also supports events and local groups, always making people feel welcome. Her dedication, positive attitude and generous spirit benefit everyone she works with.
Mackayla Scott, nominated by the Springhill Baptist Church, is the municipality’s Youth Representative Volunteer.
She has been a dedicated volunteer at the church for more than five years, serving in children’s, youth and nursery ministries on the Christian Education Board.
Scott inspires others through her kindness, reliability and servant leadership, helping younger children and youth feel supported and included.
She encourages others to get involved while quietly making sure every program runs smoothly. Her consistent care and mentorship strengthen the church community and leaves a lasting impact on the children, youth and volunteers she serves.
Also recognized were:
Anna Hergert – UNESCO Cliffs of Fundy Geopark
Billie-Jo Eagles – Beavers program in Parrsboro
Blue Osborne – Maggie’s Place Cumberland
Carla Black – Oxford Food Pantry
Carly Cleveland – Advocate District Development Association
Clare Canning – Davis Day/Miners’ Memorial Day Committee
Clarissa McCully – Parrsboro Skating Club and Parrsboro Lions Club
Courtney Morris – Advocate District Development Association
Darlene MacPherson – Malagash Mines Community Club
Delphine Heuze – UNESCO Cliffs of Fundy Global Geopark
Don Osborne – Springhill Baptist Church
Donald Forbes – Parrsboro Lions Club
Eric Sherlock – Lillian Allbon Animal Shelter
Robert Bentley – Parrsboro Band Association
Joyce Wood – Amherst Curling Club
Kathy Craib – Amherst Curling Club
Kris Larsen – Wallace and Area Recreation
Lacey Fisher – Amherst Rotary Club
Larry McDonald – Pugwash Ground Search and Rescue
Lisa Gottschalk – Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia
Michael Power – Northumberland Curling Club
Richard Belliveau – Minudie Heritage Association
Robyn Forbes – Parrsboro Community Christmas Dinner, Lions Club, Royal Canadian Legion
Simon Mackey – Canadian Red Cross
Terry Baird – Lillian Allbon Animal Shelter
Timothy Boyd – Wallace and Area Development Association
Zach Pettigrew – Cumberland Snowmobile Club, Cobequid Off-Highway Vehicle Club
Carter Tayor, Duncan Mills, Emma Forbes, Gracie Taylor and Sadie Mills – Children’s Christmas Party (Parrsboro)