Volunteer of the Month

Madison Gionet

Madison Gionet has made a remarkable contribution to the Janvrins Island community through her leadership, dedication, and commitment. For the past five years, she has served as President of the Janvrins Island Community Centre, playing a vital role in ensuring the Centre remains a welcoming and vibrant gathering place for residents of all ages.

A passionate advocate for her community, Madison dedicates countless hours to organizing fundraisers and community events that strengthen the Centre and bring people together. Her efforts have included coordinating Christmas potlucks, free community skating parties, children's bingo and movie nights, and numerous community suppers and breakfasts. She also volunteers as one of the dedicated "Breakfast Ladies" at Felix Marchand School, helping provide students with a positive start to their day.

In addition to her event planning and volunteer work, Madison has supported renovations and improvements at the Community Centre, using her creativity and eye for design to help create a more welcoming space for all who visit.

Madison's willingness to give her time, energy, and talents has enriched the lives of many and strengthened the sense of community on Janvrins Island. Her leadership, generosity, and community spirit make her a truly deserving recipient of the Community Volunteer Award.

Please join us in recognizing Madison for her hard work, dedication, and commitment to her community. We thank you for all you do for Richmond County!

Bobby Samson

Bobby Samson has devoted his life to volunteer service in Richmond County, making a lasting impact through decades of dedication to community organizations, parish initiatives, and local seniors.

He served for 30 years on the Richmond Arena Board and spent 25 years as Chair of the Finance Committee at St. Louis Parish. In these roles, Bobby provided strong financial stewardship, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of important community and parish programs. For more than three decades, he has also remained an active and committed member of the parish community.

Bobby’s contributions extend far beyond financial management. He has been a proud member of the Richmond County Men’s Choir, enriching community celebrations through music, and has served on the St. Louis Pastoral Committee, offering leadership, guidance, and support to parish initiatives.

Today, Bobby continues to give back as Treasurer of the Fleur de Lis Seniors Club, a role he has held for the past ten years. Through his oversight of grant funding, he has helped strengthen programs and services for local seniors while contributing to the organization’s ongoing success.

Whether organizing fundraisers, selling 50/50 tickets, setting up events, or working behind the scenes, Bobby is always willing to lend a hand wherever needed.

Please join us in recognizing Bobby Samson for his exceptional volunteer service, dedication, and commitment to our community. We thank Bobby for all he has done, and continues to do, for Richmond County and congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.

Ella Sampson 

Ella Samson is someone you will usually find behind the scenes, quietly doing whatever needs to be done. For more than 50 years, she has been a familiar and dependable presence at community breakfasts, bingo nights, and countless local events. While many may not have seen all the work she did, our community is stronger because of it.

Ella embodies the true meaning of volunteerism. She has given her time, energy, and heart to her community without ever seeking recognition. She is the person who simply showed up, year after year, ready to lend a hand wherever it was needed.

For more than half a century, Ella has quietly made a difference in the lives of others. Her countless early mornings, long hours, and unwavering commitment have helped build the strong sense of community we enjoy today. Her legacy is not measured by the number of years she volunteered, but by the kindness, generosity, and care she demonstrated every step of the way.

Ella's service reminds us that some of the most remarkable people are those who work quietly in the background, asking for nothing in return.

This summer, Ella shared with the D'Escousse Breakfast volunteers that, after many years of dedicated service, it was time to pass the torch. While her decision is well-earned, it marks the end of an extraordinary chapter of commitment and selflessness. Although she may be stepping back from her volunteer role, the impact of her contributions will continue to be felt throughout the community for years to come.

Please join us in recognizing Ella for her hard work, dedication, and commitment to her community. We thank her for all she has done for Richmond County and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.

Joe McNamara

Joe is deeply committed to his community and the organizations that are close to his heart. Over the years, he has served in a variety of leadership roles on the Riverdale Community Centre Board of Directors, demonstrating an unwavering dedication to its growth and success.

Joe has also been a devoted volunteer with the Junior B Strait Pirates Hockey Club and has played an active role in the Richmond Minor Hockey Program for many years. When he is not at the hockey rink lending a hand, he can often be found sharing his passion for sport by coaching the Richmond Academy boys’ basketball team. He has also generously contributed his time and expertise as a member of the Richmond Academy School Advisory Council, serving as its chair for many years.

With a generous spirit and a strong commitment to helping others, Joe is always willing to support local causes, community initiatives, and fundraising efforts. His willingness to give back and his dedication to the well-being of the community has made a lasting and meaningful impact on the lives of those around him.

Please join us in recognizing Joe for his hard work, dedication, and commitment to his community. We thank you for all you do for Richmond County!

Ian McKinnon and Philip Landry

Ian and Philip are invaluable members of St. Joseph’s Parish Hall Committee and the church community in Petit-de-Grat. They are always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it involves cooking, cleaning, painting, decorating, or assisting with community events. Their dedication and enthusiasm play an important role in the planning and success of all activities.

Dependable and hardworking, Ian and Philip consistently go above and beyond in their service to the community. They generously give their time and support to numerous causes throughout Isle Madame, demonstrating a strong commitment to helping others. In addition to their volunteer efforts, they are active members of the Petit-de-Grat church choir.

Ian and Philip exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and community service. Their kindness, compassion, and unwavering commitment inspire those around them, and their contributions have touched the lives of countless people. We are truly grateful to have them as members of our community and are proud to recognize the positive impact they continue to make.

Please join us in recognizing Ian and Philip for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to their community. We thank you for all you do for Richmond County!