Betty and Marshall Laurin are well known in Midland for their decades of tireless service to improve the lives of others in the community.
The Town of Midland awarded them the Award of Merit in 2022, but health issues prevented them from attending the last council meeting. So Mayor Bill Gordon and Deputy Mayor Jack Contin delivered the award to them at their Midland home.
"This humble couple has served our community tirelessly for decades and continues to be an inspiration to the younger generation," Gordon told MidlandToday.
In the address to council, Gordon said "They have dedicated themselves to making Midland a better place to live for children, families, the less-fortunate, and seniors. For over 40 years, they have volunteered their services to multiple service organizations while living in the heart of Georgian Bay."
The couple's volunteer work includes driving people to doctor's appointments; office, fundraising and Christmas program work for We are the Villagers. The Midland Civitan Club members also sell Christmas cakes and assist with the annual Santa Claus Parade.
For St. Vincent de Paul's food bank, the Laurins have picked up food donations, stocked shelves and assisted with Christmas parties.
"Marshall has gone so far as to dress up as Santa," read Gordon.
The couple have served at the Breakfast Club at Huron Park School and committed their time to The Guest House. They have also volunteered with the Georgian Bay Hunters and Anglers and Ducks Unlimited.
During the pandemic, they volunteered virtually from a home office.
"Betty and Marshall Laurin are truly an example of community-minded individuals that are worthy of being recipients of the Town of Midland’s Award of Merit for demonstrating their love of their community by helping others throughout the decades," read Gordon.
The second Award of Merit was presented to JoAnn Stephan, executive director of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Simcoe, who attended the council meeting.
"Stephan is a true community leader. Over the years, she has led the Big Brothers Big Sisters family of North Simcoe in guiding children to a stronger healthier life," read Gordon.
"During COVID, children faced isolation and loneliness among many other mental health concerns. JoAnn found ways to adapt to these challenges while continuing to tend to the children and families in need.
"Stephan believes in youth and recognizes that the children of today are the future of tomorrow. . . and the world is a better place because of her."
