G.A.P. Volunteer Spotlights

Barb Barrowman • (November 29th, 2023) Before she became a G.A.P. volunteer, Barb Barrowman helped at the weekly Supper Club serving dinners to neighbours in the community. She was committed to helping those in need and in G.A.P.’s early days, readily offered her assistance. Barb reflects on how gratifying it has been to watch G.A.P. grow into what it is today. “It is very well organized, with positive groups of people working together to meet multiple needs,” she remarks.

Currently packing food for the Thursday food program, Barb says that she is impressed with the many different ways that G.A.P. lends a hand to others.

When asked how she, herself, benefits from being a part of a service organization, Barb responds, “I get a feeling of satisfaction helping others. I have also met a wonderful group of people to work with.”

Barb, you are such a vital part of the team and G.A.P. is truly fortunate to have your whole-hearted attitude on board! Thank you for your generous spirit and the meaningful contributions you are making to the Gravenhurst community.

Marg McLaughlin • (November 22nd, 2023) Giving generously to others is as natural as a heartbeat to Marg McLaughlin. Having grown up in Gravenhurst, she has deep roots and a great love for the community. She is a successful realtor for Muskoka Real Estate, but still makes time as both a Rotarian and a G.A.P. volunteer to help out wherever she can. She is also a busy mother and grandmother.

Thinking about her work as a weekly food delivery driver for G.A.P., Marg says. “The benefit of seeing smiles on the faces that we deliver to, makes me feel grateful.” She notes that volunteering for G.A.P. is easy, adding, “To some degree, G.A.P. encourages the community to become involved… we are neighbours.”

Thank you, Marg, for saying it so well! We are neighbours helping neighbours. Your meaningful contribution is important to the lives of those who have less and it is greatly appreciated.

Donna Gordon • (November 15th, 2023) Donna Gordon has been a dedicated G.A.P. volunteer for years. She liked what G.A.P. was providing in the community and started out helping in the kitchen prior to COVID-19 restrictions. She readily switched to delivering food hampers to ensure neighbours in need had some food security. Donna is grateful to be a G.A.P. volunteer as it gives her an opportunity to be involved in the community in a bigger way.

Reflecting on G.A.P.’s work, she says, “I think we all need to appreciate what so many people in the community are doing to support G.A.P. I like that it is a grassroots organization and benefits a large number of people in the town of Gravenhurst.”

Donna also likes that there are so many volunteer jobs to choose from as well as a choice on the amount of time a volunteer wishes to give. She adds, “G.A.P. is very respectful of needs that volunteers have, to provide a service.”

Donna, we are truly grateful for your kind words and for all that you do for your community. As a weekly volunteer driver, you literally keep the wheels of G.A.P. moving!

Jennifer Dalby • (November 8th, 2023) Jennifer became a G.A.P. volunteer because she likes to give back to her community and help those in need. Each week, she loads up her vehicle with food hampers to deliver them to neighbours who are unable to drive in to pick them up. It takes time, gas, and effort but she does it willingly and with kindness.

“It just makes me feel good to help people,” she says.

Jennifer thinks that it is a great thing for our community to provide others with food including fresh produce that they may not be able to afford. She adds, “It helps them to get by which is greatly needed in today’s society.”

Jennifer likes the different opportunities she has had to volunteer for G.A.P. As she says, “There are many different positions…not just one thing and it’s a huge help.”

A heartfelt thank you to this compassionate volunteer who keeps on giving to the community she loves.

Tim Luke • (November 1st, 2023) Tim Luke joined G.A.P. to give back to the community he lives in. He is a Thursday food packer and driver and also loads a multitude of food hampers into the other delivery drivers’ vehicles. It is hard work but he is motivated to do it because, as he says, “Our neighbours that I deliver to are all very appreciative of the program. It makes my day to see the smiling faces of children as they ask if they can help deliver the boxes. The many thank you’s I get is all you really need to know that the work you are doing is appreciated.”

Tim adds that he is rewarded by seeing firsthand that G.A.P. really does make a difference in the community. An unexpected personal benefit is the great friendships that he is making. He is impressed with the fact that so many people give their time and experience to make Gravenhurst a better place to be. He values the compassion and understanding that G.A.P. shows to the community.

When asked why others should consider volunteering with G.A.P., Tim responds, “If you would like to expand the size of your heart, G.A.P. is for you. I think every volunteer’s heart at G.A.P. grows a little larger every week. I love the fact that it is 100% volunteer-driven. G.A.P. is a very well-organized team with clear communication of its goals.”

Tim, your jumbo-sized heart is beating such a tremendous amount of care for others. We can’t thank you enough for expressing it through your dedicated volunteer work.

G.A.P. is so fortunate to have your friendship!

Chris Winship • (October 25th, 2023) After five decades of spending summers in Muskoka, Chris Winship made the move to Bracebridge from Burlington. He is now happy to call Muskoka his year-round home.

For over 20 years, he was teamed up with the Scott Mission in Toronto, delivering food baskets and Christmas hampers. When he relocated here to Muskoka, he wanted to get involved with a local charity. He found G.A.P. online and we’re so glad he did!

Chris delivers G.A.P. food hampers every Thursday. He often asks if he can do a second route and he willingly helps load other vehicles with their food for delivery. In other words – he’s a hard worker!!

Chris says of his experience, “By being one of many dedicated volunteers, it has allowed me to give back weekly to the community in which I live and love.” He further comments on meeting many new people, whom he now considers to be friends.

In considering G.A.P.’s scope, Chris appreciates how it offers so many opportunities for any one to get involved and help out those in need.

We are so grateful for volunteers like Chris who think nothing of all the time and effort they give to others. Thank you, Chris, for being such a vital part of the G.A.P. team!

David Wetherald • (October 18th, 2023) David loves to see jam-packed food hampers when he delivers to neighbours in need. Wanting to make the most of the available space in his truck, he will ask for more deliveries to transport to the rural areas of Gravenhurst.

2019, is when David was first drawn to Gravenhurst Against Poverty. Reflecting on this, he says, “It seemed like (turned out to be true) a very good grassroots organization through which I could directly help improve the lives of my neighbours.”

David stepped in quickly, taking on the roles of G.A.P. Booth Market Coordinator, Food Program Lead and Vice-Chair of the Steering Committee. He played a major role in G.A.P.’s missed attempt to acquire the Ing Building to develop affordable housing units and a community hub.

Four years later, he is happy to be a weekly volunteer driver.

David has been involved with many charitable causes and feels a great deal of satisfaction and gratitude in helping neighbours who need assistance. In his words, “I have been fortunate in my life with numerous helping hands along the way and now it is my turn to do the same.”

He believes that G.A.P. is a well-run grassroots organization that positively impacts the lives of many of our neighbours. Giving thought to why others should consider supporting G.A.P., David says, “If we each do our bit then we can make a big difference in our nice little community. And what other organization can you think of that is entirely run by volunteers?”

David, we sincerely thank you for your vital leadership in G.A.P.’s early beginnings and we are also grateful for your continued volunteer work, your financial support and your ongoing encouragement of G.A.P.’s mission to reduce poverty.

Kellie Frankish • (October 11th, 2023) Kellie Frankish was there when G.A.P. first set up a booth at the Gravenhurst Farmers Market four years ago and she was still there every week during Market season this summer.

When asked why she became a G.A.P. volunteer, Kellie responds, “Volunteering with G.A.P. is a great way to give back to my community. I wanted to do something local and was struck by how much food insecurity existed in my own town.”

She describes how rewarding it is to meet and share with others what G.A.P. is doing, “I love chatting with people. It feels good, and a little scary, to do this work when the needs seem to be growing so quickly. I am very aware of how blessed I am and the fact that you never know when you will need help or support. If I ever need it, I hope that a program like this will be there for me. Lots of caring and no judgment… it is filling a large need in our community.”

Kellie, you are such a vital part of raising awareness about that need. We are so happy to shine a light on your role in growing support for all that G.A.P. is doing to reduce poverty in the community.

A huge, heartfelt thank you for your dedicated volunteer work!

Maggie Cowan • (October 4th, 2023) Maggie lives in Collingwood and is a long-time cottager in Muskoka. For the last 4 years she has been greeting visitors and sharing the G.A.P. story of helping neighbours in need at the G.A.P. booth at the Gravenhurst Farmers Market.

Maggie was initially a G.A.P. donor along with her husband, John, through the Muskoka Community Foundation. G.A.P.’s Transportation Program was very grateful to receive a grant from the Cowan Family Fund. But further to that, and recognizing the important work that was being done, Maggie expressed a desire to also be involved as a volunteer for G.A.P.

A retired high school teacher and grandmother of nine young artists, Maggie loves finding creative venues to explore. Her hobbies include art classes, tennis, hiking, writing and bridge.

Maggie, we are so thankful you make the time in your busy schedule to give to G.A.P. and our neighbours in need.

Joyce Bartz • (September 27th, 2023) Joyce initially volunteered with G.A.P., assisting our Garden Coordinator Sarah Meyers, with the G.A.P. Garden Program. It didn't take long to realize that Joyce displayed a great passion for listening.

Joyce would make phone calls to the 30+ garden volunteers to confirm the sites that they would take care of for the season. She also helped with the planning and organizing of the first-ever G.A.P. Garden Party. In her words, “It’s an extremely hard-working, dedicated group of people… their passion is obvious with the bounty of veggies they are able to produce.”
Joyce has now become the friendly voice our neighbours hear when phone calls are made to share information about changes to programs. She loves every minute of it, saying, “I always look forward to the next project.”

Joyce has not let her limitations with physical mobility prevent her from making an impact in the community.

A 31-year resident of Gravenhurst, she worked part-time at both Gravenhurst Home Hardware and Gravenhurst Pharmacy. She became a member of the Royal Canadian Legion where she did extensive volunteer work, “There’s nothing I wouldn’t do and still would do if possible.”

Reflecting on the importance of her G.A.P. volunteer work, Joyce comments, “While making phone calls, I have talked to many people who just need to visit and we have had some good chats. Listening to people has always been my style and it’s great therapy for me as well.”

How lucky are we to have such a positive and caring volunteer in this wonderful lady?
Thank you, Joyce, for being such a valued part of the G.A.P. story and family.

Lorne VanderDussen • (September 20th, 2023) Lorne VanderDussen became a G.A.P. volunteer in 2020 during the pandemic restrictions. He wanted to provide much-needed support to neighbours in the Gravenhurst area who were finding it difficult to provide the food and transportation needs for their households.

He also joined the G.A.P. Steering Committee, and for three years, played a vital leadership role in helping to shape the organization’s growth. He just recently finished his term on that committee.

Responding to what G.A.P. means to him personally, Lorne comments, “In a region that is perceived by many as a playground for the affluent, it is important to share the reality that poverty is as present in Muskoka, and specifically Gravenhurst, as it is anywhere else in Ontario. G.A.P. literally fills the gap for many of our neighbours by providing no-cost, judgement-free support at a challenging time in their lives. I would love to see G.A.P. out of business because it is no longer needed.”

Lorne’s volunteer work has extended to being a greeter at G.A.P.’s Booth at the Gravenhurst Farmers Market. You will see him there every Wednesday morning during Market season. When considering the value of being a G.A.P. volunteer he says, “It is one of the most efficient organizations that I have had the pleasure to be a part of. We are staffed 100% by volunteers which means that funds raised are not going to paying salaries and wages but directly to supporting our neighbours in need, Additionally, you are going to meet some amazing people and have a great time!”

Lorne happens to also be a volunteer firefighter for the Gravenhurst Fire Department.

Lorne, we are truly grateful for your volunteer service to our community. Thank you for raising awareness about what G.A.P. is doing to reduce poverty in Muskoka.

Denise & John Cooper • (September 13th, 2023) John and Denise Cooper are long-time, strong supporters of G.A.P.’s mission to reduce poverty in our community.

Each and every single week they are committed to volunteering in different ways. John delivers food hampers by vehicle to neighbours experiencing food insecurity. Denise purchases food where and when it is on sale. She also sorts incoming food rescue donations that will be distributed by G.A.P. to those in need.

Together, they both also support G.A.P.’s annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) community fundraiser event.

If you know John and Denise then you know of their kindness and generosity. They love to celebrate all that G.A.P. is doing while also encouraging fellow volunteers along the way. We are so lucky to have this dynamo couple sharing G.A.P.’s story and practicing meaningful volunteer work that contributes to community wholeness.

John and Denise, a huge, HUGE, G.A.P. thank you to both of you for all that you do!

Mary Jean Cline • (September 6th, 2023) Meet Mary Jean Cline. Mary Jean is a very busy G.A.P. volunteer. She supports the weekly Tuesday meal preparation, sorts incoming deliveries of donated food and helps keep the pantry organized. She helps to get a lot of essential jobs done behind the scenes that keep G.A.P. operations running smoothly. We think it’s important for us to shine a bright light front and centre on her long-time contribution to G.A.P.’s Tuesday food program.

Mary Jean talks passionately about the need in the community for this kind of service. She is quick to humbly highlight G.A.P.’s remarkable teamwork, saying, “Everyone’s effort matters. Someone suggests an idea and then another one builds on it.”

When asked what she gets out of volunteering for G.A.P., her response is, “My gratification is knowing someone had a better day.”

A huge thank you, Mary Jean, for your years of generous service to both G.A.P. and the Gravenhurst community.

Maggie Keates • (August 30th, 2023) Originally from New Zealand, and now a long-time resident of Gravenhurst, Maggie Keates is a dedicated gardener and G.A.P. volunteer. She is a retired minister who believes strongly in giving back to her community.

Maggie originally volunteered for the Thursday night Supper Club which was started and coordinated by Val Ceschia at Trinity United Church and then continued that work when G.A.P. agreed to run it in 2019.

Maggie also plays a big role in the G.A.P. Garden Program. She gardened at a few sites but now helps tend the seven garden boxes at the Centennial Centre. As you can see, they are flourishing under both her expertise and care!

Thank you, Maggie, for believing that those who have less in our community deserve our attention.

Marion Purvis • (August 23rd, 2023) Originally from South Africa, Marion now volunteers as part of G.A.P.’s Tuesday Food Program. She is part of our kitchen team that helps to prepare healthy meals for neighbours to pick up and take home.

Two years ago she found out about G.A.P through social media as well as our good friend and supporter at The Oar, Robbie Irvine. Marion says she has learned so much about poverty in Muskoka and the very real need to address it. In addition to the Tuesday program, she has worked in the G.A.P. Garden program at the GPS, GHS and Trinity United Church garden sites.

Marion thinks that G.A.P. is an amazing organization and says, “It’s a bright shining light in my life to do this work.” She describes the teamwork as being fantastic and looks forward to it every week.

Marion, we want to thank you for all that you do for G.A.P. It is such a pleasure to have volunteers like you who give to the work with such passion in your heart!

Sylvia Crowhurst • (August 16th, 2023) Meet Sylvia. Sylvia has been a dedicated G.A.P. Garden volunteer since 2021. She is a retired massage therapist and also worked in theatre doing alterations on costumes.

Sylvia is a strong believer in community. In her words, “Supporting those in need combined with my love of gardening all came together for me to become a G.A.P. volunteer.” In fact, a few years back, when Sylvia was considering moving to Gravenhurst, she saw all of the G.A.P. garden boxes at the Centennial Centre and thought, “I’d like to live in a community that cares like this about others.”

It makes perfect sense that Sylvia works at the Bethune Memorial House G.A.P. Garden where the humanitarian seed of caring for others was first planted for Dr. Norman Bethune.

A heartfelt G.A.P. thank you Sylvia, for choosing Gravenhurst to live - we are so lucky you did!

Ardyn Todd • (August 9th, 2023) G.A.P. Volunteer Spotlight: Ardyn Todd. Meet Ardyn Todd, G.A.P.’s Food Rescue Coordinator. Ardyn is responsible for a team of food rescue volunteers. Together, they pick up and deliver both surplus and purchased food every week for distribution to our neighbours in need.

Pictured here, Ardyn stands beside his grandson, Jivan Todd, who he recruited to help deliver and re-package eggs.

Along with food rescue, Ardyn has worked in the G.A.P. Garden Program, hauling soil and lumber during the building phase of the boxes at multiple sites. He has also been a yearly volunteer organizer of G.A.P.'s Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) fundraising event.

Ardyn, we are so grateful for your tireless service to G.A.P.’s vision and all the wonderful work you have done for our community.

Phil Tomasetti • (August 2nd, 2023) G.A.P. Volunteer Spotlight: Phil Tomasetti. Phil Tomasetti is one of G.A.P.'s original Directors. He was there at the beginning when challenging conversations took place. That was when and where the tough questions were asked about what could be done to help so many individuals in need.

Phil attended countless organizational meetings involving G.A.P.’s purpose, mission, and initial programs. Before the pandemic, he started a pay-it-forward complimentary meal program in collaboration with The Oar Restaurant.

Phil was also a part of the inaugural Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) Committee and inspired his church members to serve hot chocolate to the participating walkers.

He regularly picked up rescue food for G.A.P. and in recent years, substantial quantities of pet food for neighbours to give to their furry friends.

As the Minister at Gateway Church, he obtained permission for their garden boxes to be used to grow food for G.A.P. neighbours in the community. In fact, Phil was part of a team who actually built a couple of the boxes. He has helped tend the plants over the years and is always enthusiastic about their growth.

Phil has recently stepped back from G.A.P.’s board of directors but he has not left his love of the work that G.A.P. does. He is always willing to take on a task and in his words, is “…only a phone call away!”

What more could you ask of a dedicated volunteer? Phil, thank you for so many years of your wholehearted service.

Hannah King • (July 26th, 2023) G.A.P. Volunteer Spotlight: Hannah King
Hannah King is G.A.P.’s Young Adult Centre (YAC) Coordinator. For over two years she has been a dedicated G.A.P. volunteer welcoming youth in the community to enjoy YAC’s various activities.

Hannah says she has really appreciated seeing the growth in each of the individual youth participants as well as the bonds of friendship that have formed within the group. We think they are pretty lucky to have a leader who plans and leads great fun-filled activities for them every Friday night. Most recently, they have included beach volleyball, clay sculpting, a BBQ party with lawn games, a scavenger hunt and a board games night. Hannah has used her personal talent as an artist to lovingly encourage the young people to create paintings. She has been a constant anchor, providing a safe place where youth can be together and connect as a community.

Hannah is a busy gal as she also works full-time as the Activity Coordinator at Granite Ridge.

Thank you, Hannah! Your heart is big and we are grateful for all you give to the community.

Kathy Roberts • (July 19th, 2023) Kathy Roberts is another one of our delightful volunteers who assists with preparing food during G.A.P.'s Tuesday Fresh Meal Pick-Up days. She is always willing to jump in to help wherever needed and brings a contagious smile everywhere she goes.

When not volunteering her time with G.A.P., Kathy loves to play pickleball and curling but, most of all, she loves to spend time with her precious grandbaby.

Thank you, Kathy, for all you do and all you give to help others in our community. We are grateful to have you as a member of the G.A.P. family.

Kate Frittenburg • (July 12th, 2023) Meet Kate. Kate is one of the kitchen crew volunteers for G.A.P.'s Tuesday Meal Pickup Days. Often seen with a big, bright smile, Kate is a delightful member of the team, always eager to jump in and help wherever needed. She also loves to sing while she works, which helps to keep the spirits high for everyone she works with.

In her spare time, we've heard that Kate is quite the golfer and bowler!

Thank you, Kate, for all you do for G.A.P. and to support our neighbours in need. You're a volunteer superstar!

Gerry Lawrence • (July 5th, 2023) Sadly, it is time to say farewell to another long-time, dedicated, G.A.P. volunteer who is relocating – this time to Nanaimo, British Columbia. Gerry Lawrence has been volunteering with G.A.P. for over 4 years! Every week for all of those years, he has faithfully attended G.A.P. on the Thursday food day to distribute food hampers as well as deliver food at the end of his shift.

When neighbours would arrive to pick up their food packages, Gerry was there to receive them and ensure they get the one with their name on it. He is well-known by many of our neighbours and undoubtedly, they will miss his familiar face. We sure will!
Additionally, Gerry’s poverty-reduction volunteer work has also included a weekly commitment to Circles Muskoka for the past 4 years.

Gerry, thank you for your personal giving as both a volunteer and a donor. We are grateful for the funds you have raised every year for G.A.P.’s Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser. Thank you also for participating in the annual winter walk.

We will miss you and we wish you the very best on your new life adventure.

P.S. We promise to keep rooting for your beloved Maple Leafs!

Judy Campbell • (June 21st, 2023) Judy Campbell is a one-of-a-kind volunteer with exceptional talents. She has just relocated to North Bay and will be greatly missed by the Gravenhurst community. For years we have been especially fortunate to have had Judy as part of the G.A.P. family.

Willing to help out wherever she was needed, Judy volunteered in the kitchen for the Tuesday lunches and delivered hampers for the Thursday food program. She offered wisdom and encouragement as a member and vice-chair of the G.A.P. Steering Committee.

Judy was a trailblazer in obtaining the Ryde school in order to establish the Ryde Co-op and that experience was very valuable to G.A.P. during its early growth and development. Her expertise as a grant writer has resulted in a great number of successful grant applications which have provided substantial funds to G.A.P.

Judy, how can we thank you enough for all you have done for G.A.P.?! We wish you all the best and know, without a doubt, that North Bay has been gifted with one very
special volunteer!

Marie Little • (June 14th, 2023) A smile that can light up the room! Yes, Marie Little really is this excited to be volunteering for Gravenhurst Against Poverty! She is a great bundle of energy which she uses to do so much to help our neighbours.

Marie joined G.A.P. in April 2022 and started out by helping to pack food for the Thursday Food Program, but quickly rose to be the coordinator for that program. She then showed her culinary and leadership skills by regularly preparing both meat and plant-based meals for members of the Circles group. Most recently, Marie has taken on the huge task of organizing a team that prepares over 600 hot meals that are distributed to our neighbours on alternate Thursdays.

Despite all the many hours that Marie spends at G.A.P. she still finds time for golf. In the 'off-season', she is a very active member of the curling club.

Marie, you certainly are a treasure and G.A.P. is so very fortunate to have you on our team of wonderful volunteers. Thank you for all you do!

Frances Garner • (June 7th, 2023) This week we are shining a light on the amazing work of Frances Garner. Frances only began volunteering with G.A.P. in September 2022, but boy has she ever stepped up in a HUGE way and made a big impact on G.A.P. and our community in that short time.

Frances volunteers a lot of her time with the Community Kitchen Program, teaching our neighbours the basics of cooking as well as teaching them how to prepare nutritious, plant-based meals. With the ever-rising cost of food, especially meat products, Frances guides the participants on how to prepare foods that they may never have tried before. Last week, several lucky G.A.P. volunteers were treated to a wonderful lunch prepared by the Community Kitchen class who had just completed a 6-week course.

When not volunteering at G.A.P. Frances keeps very busy, especially on weekends, as an Officiant.

Frances, you are an amazing, generous and kind soul who is so much fun to work with! Thank you for all you do to support G.A.P. and our neighbours.

Kitty Nancekievill • (May 17th, 2023) When you see this beautiful smile you just know that there is a beautiful person inside. This person is Kitty Nancekievill who joined Gravenhurst Against Poverty last year. Since her arrival, Kitty has been volunteering with the G.A.P. Tuesday Food Program where she has been helping to make our neighbours feel welcome and ensures that they are able to get the food they need.

Kitty also volunteers her time at a Muskoka thrift store and loves to spend time with her family - especially her grandchildren!

Thank you so much for all you do, Kitty!

Dave & Elaine Robbins • (May 10th, 2023) This week, we are excited to shine a spotlight on Dave and Elaine Robbins.

These volunteers have been with Gravenhurst Against Poverty since the very beginning. Together as a team, they helped to prepare food all the way back when G.A.P. was serving in-house meals and are still giving their time and energy to G.A.P. all these years later by volunteering with the Thursday Food Program. They shared with us how they have a special place in their hearts for those struggling with mental wellness and how they have regularly worked to raise money to help support the neighbours in our community.

For several years Dave and Elaine gave visitors to Gravenhurst a wonderful place to visit by welcoming them to their beautiful B&B on Gull Lake. Their warmth and caring hearts have made them great ambassadors for our community.

If you see this cheerful couple around town please say hello, or even better, offer a big thank you for all they do to give back and help others! Thank you, Dave & Elaine!

Jaden Hollingshead • (May 3rd, 2023) Jaden is a real asset to Gravenhurst. Among other things, he is a co-owner of a local business, a member and Director of the Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce and Gravenhurst BIA and he is very active in community politics and the growth of our community. Despite all his other commitments, Jaden still finds time to regularly volunteer for Gravenhurst Against Poverty.

You will find Jaden carrying heavy boxes of food up the stairs and loading them into vehicles for delivery to our neighbours. No matter what the weather, Jaden is there with a smile and a kind demeanor to help those around him. G.A.P. certainly appreciates having someone like Jaden for this job!

Thank you, Jaden, for all you bring to this community and the support you give to Gravenhurst Against Poverty.

Pete Lemoine • (April 26th, 2023) This week we are shining our spotlight on a G.A.P. Volunteer who is no stranger to volunteering! Pete Lemoine volunteers his time and expertise in many areas throughout Muskoka; such as the Gravenhurst Environmental Advisory Committee, as the Muskoka Watershed Council, as a director of the Parry Sound Muskoka Community Network and, of course, with Gravenhurst Against Poverty.

While volunteering with G.A.P. Pete will fill in anywhere he is needed. He has not only packaged food, loaded carts and made countless trips up the stairs with boxes of food but he has also loaded vehicles, done deliveries and even mopped the floors at the end of the day.

Pete is humble, hard-working and wears his kind heart on his sleeve for all to see. We are so thankful for all he does for G.A.P. and for our wonderful community.

You are a real treasure, Pete, thank you!

Bob Collins • (April 11th, 2023) This week we are pleased to shine a spotlight on G.A.P. Volunteer Bob Collins.

Bob is very well known in the community and certainly has left his mark not only as a former owner of Gravenhurst Home Building Centre, but also as president of the Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce and as a Director for the Muskoka Community Foundation.

Now, Gravenhurst Against Poverty is privileged to have Bob as a vital member of our team of fabulous volunteers supporting our youth and delivering food packages to our neighbours each week.

We are immensely grateful for all that you have done and continue to do for our great community. Thank you, Bob, for all you do!

Elaine Matthews • (March, 29th, 2023) Elaine has done an exceptional job as the lead gardener for the G.A.P. Gardens at Gravenhurst Public School and Gravenhurst High School for the past 4 years. Elaine has made a tremendous contribution to our community and in supporting our neighbours in need through the bountiful harvests of fresh produce that was distributed through G.A.P.'s various Food Programs.

While Elaine is stepping back from the lead gardener role, we are delighted to share, to say that she has agreed to stay on as a G.A.P. Garden Consultant. As a Master Gardener and a published author of a book on gardening, Elaine is perfect for this new role and we are so grateful that she will be sticking around to support the Garden Program.

Elaine not only loves to spend time in the garden, but she also has a love of cooking and baking. She has often been found in the shiny G.A.P. kitchen making muffins to be shared with our neighbours.

Please join us in acknowledging and thanking Elaine for all she has done for G.A.P. and our community. We are so relieved to know that you will still be there to help guide us with all of your knowledge, care and support. Thank you, Elaine!

Kathryn McGill • (March, 22nd, 2023) No matter when or where you see Kathryn McGill you will see this infectious smile. Kathryn is a regular food delivery driver with G.A.P. and volunteers with CNOY but she is so much more.

Up until recently, she competed as a world-class rower and won gold at the World Masters Rowing Championship, along with many other top wins both in singles and with her sister Diane. She is a mother of 2, loves cycling, is a dedicated member of our local Rotary club and just loves Gravenhurst.

We can't possibly say enough about Kathryn and her contributions to our community. Thank you, Kathryn, for all you do both with Gravenhurst Against Poverty and all your other passions!

Elaine Barnes • (March 16th, 2023) Today G.A.P. is shining an appreciative spotlight on Elaine Barnes. Elaine needs very little introduction, as she is a retired teacher who taught many people in Gravenhurst over the years and she continues to pour her love and energy into giving back to the community.

Elaine has volunteered with Gravenhurst Against Poverty for several years and is always willing to help out where needed. Pictured here, she is busy packaging thousands of eggs for our neighbours. She is EGG-sactly the kind of volunteer G.A.P. needs and depends on.

Thank you, Elaine, for being such a dedicated member of the G.A.P. family!

April Humphries • (March 8th, 2023) This week's G.A.P. Volunteer Spotlight is shining bright on April Humphries.

April first connected with Gravenhurst Against Poverty through volunteering in the Coldest Night Of the Year fundraising walk last winter. This led to April joining our great team of G.A.P. volunteers.

Last summer, she was a regular greeter at the Gravenhurst Farmers’ Market and now she delivers food to our neighbours each week AND has also joined the Food Rescue Team that picks up food from our local grocery stores.

Let's give a BIG G.A.P. THANK YOU to April!

Food Rescue/Pickup Team • (February 15th, 2023) This great gang of guys is part of a team that plays a vital role in making sure that each week there is food available to be distributed to those in need in the Gravenhurst area. Without them, there would not be any food to distribute to the at least 700 people a week who benefit from the food program.

Each weekday they visit many area businesses to pick up donated rescue food, or food that would otherwise go to waste. They also pick up hundreds of pounds of fresh produce and other purchased food items and transport all this into the G.A.P. packaging area at Trinity United Church. They are always on hand whenever deliveries are made and can also be counted on when there are extra tasks that require expertise or a strong arm.

This fun-loving bunch can also be found around town having coffee together after the work is done so if you happen to see them please stop and say HELLO and share a big thank you for all of their dedication.

📸 Pictured left-to-right: Ardyn Todd (lead), Steve Evans, David Hammill, Mark Kittson, Al Hunter, Jim Richardson, and Don Reynolds.

Marilyn Hook • (February 8th, 2023) This week we are shining a light on the lovely Marilyn Hook. Although it has not yet even been a full year since Marilyn joined our team of volunteers, she has contributed so much to Gravenhurst Against Poverty.

Not only is Marliyn a regular Thursday Food Program volunteer but she frequently comes to bake muffins for our neighbours in need, routinely helps to prepare delicious meals for the Circles Program and is always happy to help where ever needed.

You, Marilyn, are indeed one of G.A.P.’s many treasures. Thank you for all you do to support G.A.P. and our neighbours!

Linda Burton • (February 1st, 2023) G.A.P. first started with a conversation; it took place in the church kitchen between Linda Burton and the previous minister of Trinity United Church, Allan Lynk. Linda asked Allan what could be done for the vulnerable people in the Gravenhurst community who were coming to the church door asking for help. That conversation ignited many, many more conversations like it.

Linda strongly advocated for our neighbours in need and was successful in her appeal to the District of Muskoka for $40,000 in seed money to get G.A.P. started. The rest, they say, is history.

Thank you, Linda, for demonstrating the tremendous value of conversations.
We are so glad to have you back volunteering with your G.A.P. family!

Diane Harrop • (January 25, 2023) Yes, Diane Harrop, we are so glad you are here and sharing your time, energy and big heart with G.A.P.!

Diane has been a long-time volunteer and G.A.P. supporter. Not only does she help with the G.A.P. Food Program, but you can also find this special lady volunteering with the Elderberries Choir, the Muskoka Concert Association, the Bifocals Band, Trinity United Church Choir, and, she is also the Chair of the Probus Speakers Committee.

She somehow manages not only to find the time for all these things, but no matter where you find her, you can be sure that she is flashing that beautiful smile of hers and that she'll be ready to share a cheerful word with you.

We are so grateful to have Diane on our team! Thank you, Diane, for who you are and for all you do to support G.A.P. and our neighbours.

Geoff & Carol Aberdeen • (January 18, 2023) This week we would like to give a great big shoutout to a very special couple.

Geoff & Carol Aberdeen have each given so much of their time and talents to G.A.P. over the years. Here we see them helping to distribute food for our Tuesday Food Program, but they also assist with delivering food to our neighbours on Thursdays.

Carol is the Secretary of G.A.P.'s Steering Committee, so she is often busy preparing minutes from many different G.A.P. meetings. Also, and maybe Carol's biggest task, is preparing the weekly spreadsheets for Thursday's Food Program. Ensuring that information flows cohesively between G.A.P.'s many food packers and delivery drivers so that food makes it to our 550+ neighbours each week is a colossal job, but Carol does it with ease.

We are so grateful for everything that both Geoff and Carol do to support G.A.P. and our neighbours experiencing hardship. Thank you, Geoff & Carol!

Judy Sherman • (January 11, 2023) Here we have another stellar G.A.P. volunteer, Judy Sherman, busy packaging eggs for distribution to our neighbours through the Food Progam. Judy has been a G.A.P. volunteer since the early days. She began volunteering in the kitchen preparing meals, which were served to those in need each week. When the pandemic restrictions prevented G.A.P. from being able to do this, Judy continued to step up and came in regularly to help package food.

We would like to give a special, heartfelt THANK YOU to Judy for all her years of service and dedication to G.A.P. and her neighbours facing hardship. Thank you, Judy!!

Jodi Gower & Graham Millar • (January 4, 2023) Jodi is another one of our faithful drivers connected to the G.A.P. Food Program who delivers food each week to our neighbours. Delivering food has been a bit of a family affair for Jodi as both of her parents, Karl & Trudy, along with her sister, Krista, have all volunteered with G.A.P. and the delivery service.

Most recently, we are delighted to see that Jodi has brought her partner, Graham, into the G.A.P. family of volunteers!

We welcome Graham and thank you both for all you do to support G.A.P. and our great community.

Bernie Chisholm • (December 28, 2022) This volunteer is just as kind and caring as his face suggests. Bernie Chisholm is another valued member of our volunteers who comes in to help with the Tuesday Food Program.

Bernie helps prepare containers of food and other necessities for our neighbours in need who are able to come in and pick them up. He makes people feel welcome with his encouraging ways and helps them manage their containers.

Your G.A.P. family thanks you, Bernie, and truly cares about you and yours. Thank you!

Maxine Wheeler • (December 21, 2022) Today we are shining a light on Maxine Wheeler, who is a regular member of the Tuesday meal-making team. She is just a bundle of energy who loves to keep busy and will help with anything that needs to get done. Maxine is eager to learn more about G.A.P. and all of the services that G.A.P. provides. She is a great asset to our team of volunteers!

Please join us in thanking Maxine for all she does to support our community and in wishing her a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you, Maxine!

Barb Holtz • (December 14, 2022) Today we are shining a bright spotlight on a very hardworking volunteer!

Barb Holtz has been a faithful volunteer for several years with Gravenhurst Against Poverty. Barb comes in each week to assess what rescue food is available, comes up with a plan for a nutritious hot meal, and then she and our Tuesday team of volunteers prepare it together. This food is then given out, along with other items, to those who can come in and pick up their food every Tuesday from Trinity United Church.

Barb's dedication, compassion for others and positive demeanor are all contagious and she positively affects everyone she works with. We are so grateful for all that Barb has done and continues to do for both G.A.P. and our neighbours in need.

Please join us in thanking Barb for her kind heart and all of her hard work!

Bruce Dart • (December 7, 2022) This legend right here has been volunteering with G.A.P. since its inception more than FIVE years ago. Each week Bruce schedules over 20 volunteers who deliver food to our neighbours in need both in town and in rural areas of Gravenhurst.

Then, every Thursday, in the heat of summer or the freezing temps of winter, you can find Bruce outside of Trinity United Church loading food packages into vehicles for delivery.

Bruce’s calm manner and composure always leave you feeling that everything is under control and getting done in a timely fashion. He's always eager to help when called upon and has a heart the size of a transport trailer.

Thank you so much Bruce for all you do to support G.A.P. and our great community.

Sandra Gleeson • (November 16th, 2022) Sandra is one of our regular weekly volunteers at Trinity United Church. She is often found preparing and packing food for our neighbours who are able to come in and pick up their food boxes and bags. Sandra has such a warm, friendly demeanor and is such a pleasure to have as part of our G.A.P. Team.

Thank you Sandra for all that you do to support our great community!

Martine Brouillet & Chuck Murray • (November 9th, 2022) Martine and Chuck are pictured here loading up their vehicle with food packages that they deliver to neighbours in need who live in the Kilworthy area. Martine & Chuck have only been volunteering with G.A.P. for a few months, but in that time, have been such a wonderful asset to the G.A.P. team. They regularly come in on Thursdays to help pack food packages and then do deliveries.

Thank you Martine & Chuck so so much for all you do to support our community!

Irma Salminen • (November 2nd, 2022) Irma first connected with G.A.P. about volunteering during the early stages of the COVID pandemic. The number of neighbours who were in need and were enrolling in the G.A.P. Food Program was rising and Irma stepped up during that challenging time. She has now been a faithful, hard-working G.A.P. volunteer for over three years.

Now, Irma is the first smiling face our neighbours see when they come to pick up food every Tuesday from the Trinity United Church.

We are so grateful for Irma's contributions to G.A.P. and to our community. Her positive energy and kindness to others are contagious. Thank you, Irma!

Liz & Bryan Etter • (October 26th, 2022) This dynamic duo has been making food deliveries every Thursday for the past few years. Delivering weekly food packages to those enrolled in the G.A.P. Food Program has been a vital support for our community. Bryan and Liz know the neighbours on their route and are always happy to help out.

Bryan & Liz love Muskoka and the great outdoors and have both been such a perfect fit for our team. We are grateful for their enthusiasm and very much appreciate having such willing and caring volunteers who we and our neighbours can count on week after week.

Thank you Bryan and Liz for your hard work, dedication and kind hearts!

Mariane Sayers • (October 19th, 2022) This week would like like to thank and celebrate the amazing contribution to G.A.P. and our community by Mariane Sayers.

Mariane was a great helper with the Garden Program this summer and along with her daughter Sophia, also helped as a runner on food days. Mariane is now a regular during the Thursday Food Program that helps to support over 500 individuals in our community each week who are faced with food insecurity.

Please join us in thanking Mariane for her wonderful kindness and generosity. Thank you, Mariane!

Lynne Briden • (October 12th, 2022) This kind, smiling sweetheart deserves a big THANK YOU for all she does not only for G.A.P. but for the community as a whole. Lynne has volunteered in just about every kitchen in the area. If there are meals to be prepared, Lynne generously gives her time and talent to help.

For G.A.P., Lynne not only helps prepare the Tuesday meals but she also delivers meals to our neighbours in need every Thursday.

It is stellar volunteers like Lynne who make G.A.P. programming possible. Thank you, Lynne!

Rob Haag • (October 5th, 2022) Rob Haag is a volunteer who brings sunshine and a big smile every time he enters a room. He is from B.C. but spends his summers in Muskoka and is a regular volunteer with the G.A.P. Food Program. He is always willing to do any task that needs to be done for the Thursday food packaging and delivery and also helps out with the Gravenhurst Farmers’ Market booth.

Rob has certainly become part of the Gravenhurst community. When he is not helping out with G.A.P., you may find him out in his kayak, down at the beautiful Muskoka Wharf with his friends playing their ukuleles or cycling around the area.

Rob, we will certainly miss you when you return to the west coast. Thank you for all you do for G.A.P. and our community and please come back again next year!

Tim Luke • (September 28th, 2022) Tim Luke joined the G.A.P. community this past Summer. He is a seasonal resident who has so much energy that he just never stops helping!

Tim jumps right in there to pack food boxes, run them up the stairs to the waiting delivery cars and will even be found delivering food to those in need. In his spare time, Tim calls in to see if help is needed at the G.A.P. booth at the Gravenhurst Farmers' Market.

When Tim is not volunteering with G.A.P., he enjoys a game of golf or another passion of his: fishing at the cottage.

Thank you for sharing your energy and enthusiasm with us, Tim! We are so grateful for all of your tremendous support and hope to see you again next summer!!

Bryant Stora • (September 21st, 2022) Bryant is a teacher who volunteers after school during the school year and volunteers every week during the summer.

He is always eager to jump in to help wherever there is a need. This is proven by the fact that he has been seen packing food bags, loading carts, carrying packages of food to cars and even delivering food to our neighbours!

To top it all off, when a volunteer was needed to help paint an office room for G.A.P., Bryant was right there with supplies in hand and a cheerful smile on his face.

Thank you so much Bryant, for all you do for G.A.P. and for our neighbours in need.

Michael Inman • (September 14th, 2022) Michael has been volunteering with G.A.P. for almost a year. He has been a big help with the Food Program - assisting with packing & running food packages as well as helping to take out garbage and recycling. Michael has also helped with the G.A.P. Booth at the weekly Gravenhurst Farmers' Market and the G.A.P. Booth at RibFest this past August.

Michael is always eager to help and tells us that he volunteers with G.A.P. because it's a great way to give back. He says he loves to meet new people and share their stories.

We are tremendously grateful for all of your wonderful hard work and energy, Michael. Thank you for all you do to support G.A.P. and our neighbours in need. If you see Michael out and about, be sure to say hello and thank him for his efforts!

Rhonda Porter • (September 7th, 2022) Rhonda has been the Team Captain of 'Trinity Trekkers' in the past three Coldest Night of the Year fundraising events. She has done a wonderful job rallying her teammates and raising valuable resources for our neighbours in need.

That's not all... Rhonda has also been volunteering with G.A.P. for the last two years, assisting with the Food Program and the G.A.P. booth at the Gravenhurst Farmers' Market.

Rhonda tells us that her favourite part about volunteering with G.A.P. is meeting so many new people at the Farmers' Market and being able to tell them about all the G.A.P. programs. We asked Rhonda why she volunteers with G.A.P. and she said it was because she saw a need in the community and wanted to find a way to contribute towards addressing it and giving back.

Well, we're extremely grateful to Rhonda for all of her tremendous effort over the last few years in supporting G.A.P. Please join us in thanking and celebrating Rhonda!

G.A.P. Volunteer Spotlights

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