2021 Warden’s Community Service Awards

Presented to Outstanding Community Members

Opeongo Hills Nordic Ski Club and Karthi Rajamani Recognized at 10th Annual Warden’s Community Service Awards

COUNTY OF RENFREW: A popular cross country ski organization and a local CEO have been recognized for their valuable contributions to our communities through the 2021 Warden’s Community Service Awards.

The awards were presented by County of Renfrew Warden, Debbie Robinson, at County Council’s November 24, 2021 meeting. The awards are designed to recognize and promote social responsibility demonstrated by individuals as well as for-profit and not-for-profit organizations that are making a difference in our community. Nominees were considered based on criteria that demonstrated how they contribute to the quality of life, which in turn makes the County of Renfrew a better place to live and work.

“This year, I’m pleased to present the 2021 Warden’s Community Service Awards to an individual, as well as to a not-for profit organization,” announced Warden Robinson. “A heartfelt congratulations and thank you goes out to Opeongo Hills Nordic Ski Club, a not-for-profit organization based out of Brudenell, Lyndoch and Raglan, and to CEO of the Pembroke Public Library, Karthi Rajamani.”

“Karthi came to Canada as an immigrant from India in 1998, and since then has become an invaluable part of our community in Renfrew County,” says Pembroke Mayor and nominator, Mike LeMay, “She has dedicated herself to providing educational, informational, and recreational programs for children as well as taking an active role in promoting diversity, multiculturalism, and literacy in our region. Positive change has come in our community thanks to her continued efforts and passion for her community.”

Winning the award in the not-for-profit category was Opeongo Hills Nordic Ski Club. “The OHNSC has become an integral part of community and economic development in the municipality of Brudenell, Lyndoch and Raglan, not to mention all of Renfrew County,” says past Ottawa Valley Tourist Association President and nominator, Chris Hinsperger, “Since the club was first established in 2011, hundreds of skiers and the volunteers that have contributed to the club over the years have had their lives enriched as a result of the forming of this club.”

Each year, a Selection Review Committee comprised of the County of Renfrew Warden, Chief Administrative Officer, and one member of County Council select the award recipients. Nominees are considered in each of the three categories: individual person, not-for-profit business, and for-profit business.

“Both winners of this year’s awards exemplify what it means to be community-minded,” says Warden Robinson. “We are fortunate to have so many amazing organizations in Renfrew County who are willing to go above and beyond to serve the needs of our residents. Opeongo Hills Nordic Ski Club and its volunteers and Ms. Rajamani are both shining examples of how community programs can have a large and lasting impact on our residents.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Paul Moreau, Chief Administration Office/Clerk, County of Renfrew 613-735-7288
Sierra Stinson, Media Relations/Grants Coordinator, County of Renfrew 613-281-5108