Barb McAllister, a prominent figure in 4-H in the county, has been posthumously recognized with the Syngenta 4-H Ontario Arbor Award.
On Feb. 3, 4-H Ontario announced three winners of the Arbor Award, including McAllister from Crieff.
McAllister passed away suddenly in January 2015. She was a 4-H volunteer for over 30 years after being a member in her youth.
The Arbor Award recognizes volunteers who have shown significant leadership, initiative and made a positive impact on 4-H at various levels.
Friend and colleague Carol Pollock described McAllister as “one of the kindest people you’d ever meet; just a great sense of humour.”
Pollock, along with the board of directors for 4-H in Wellington County, nominated McAllister for the award because she was a central driving force to and very dedicated to 4-H.
“We should have nominated her when she was still living, but I know we tried several times and she did not want the fanfare,” said Pollock.
“She was great with the kids, she knew all the kids’ names and always made a point of speaking to them at various events.”
Pollock added, “She was one of these people that didn’t take credit for anything, but she certainly got us going at various times.”
The 2016 recipients, which also include Rob Ashton and Keith Coleman, will be honoured at the Syngenta 4-H Ontario Arbor Award Banquet on April 2 in Alliston.
McAllister’s daughter Judy Ostopovich will accept the award on her behalf.
