MINTO – In the week leading up to International Women’s Day on March 8, the Town of Minto and Minto Chamber of Commerce showcased a few of the community’s female business and community leaders.
A total of five “outstanding Minto women” were highlighted in social media posts between March 1 and 5.
WENDY CORMAK
Wendy Cormack was recognized for her involvement in the All Aboard Palmerston committee, Palmerston Lion’s Club, Party in the Park event, Palmerston and District Hospital and the Minto Mental Health initiative.
“Wendy leads by example in her business, Palmerston Home Hardware, and by actively helping in the community,” Minto officials state.
JANELLE HILL
Harriston native Janelle Hill is active in a number of local organizations. Big Brothers, Big Sisters North Wellington and their annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake; Harriston and Palmerston agricultural societies and Minto firefighters Touch-A-Truck events have benefitted from her volunteerism.
“It is evident that family, friends and community fill her cup,” officials note.
PEGGY RAFTIS
Peggy Raftis is a longtime member of the Grey-Wellington Theatre Guild, having taken on numerous roles on-stage and behind the scenes, including directing productions and serving as president, vice-president and secretary on the executive.
She has also been active in the Minto Cultural Roundtable, Treasures of Minto, Minto Dance Academy, Supporting Performing Arts in Rural Communities (SPARC) and all three downtown Minto public art exhibits (Trendy Trains, Cool Cones and Clifford Connects).
“It is women like this that elevate us, making everyone around a little better and very proud,” officials state.
AMY HABERMEHL
Amy Habermehl’s volunteer efforts have benefited the Minto Chamber of Commerce and the All Aboard Palmerston committee.
She has also organized or assisted with Journey for Jasper, the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington’s Christmas Adopt-a-Family program and the Palmerston and District Hospital Starlight Gala fundraiser.
“Those close to Amy value her strategic thinking and hands-on contributions … she challenges herself to be brave and bold in life and business,” Minto officials state.
KAREN DOWLER
Karen Dowler has received the Clifford Lions Club Citizen of the Year award and a longtime service award from Clifford Minor Hockey. Her volunteer resume includes work with the Clifford Food Bank, Clifford and District Horticultural Society, Clifford Recreation Association, Clifford Rotary Club, Clifford Homecoming committee and Clifford Knox United Church.
Officials note Dowler’s “hands-on, get-things-done personality” make her a valuable contributor to community organizations.
“Her love and commitment for everything Clifford is outstanding and appreciated. “
Each of the women showcased received a $50 gift card for a local business, sponsored by RBC.
