By Mark Squibb/December 2, 2021`
A couple from Bay Bulls and a prominent community group in Witless Bay have been presented with provincial awards by Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador (RNL).
Rodney and Kelly Joyce, who have volunteered with the BBBAA’s Southern Shore United Soccer Program since 2015, have been named the Provincial Volunteers of the Year for 2021.
“This husband-and-wife duo have played a significant role in growing the program over the last seven years and dedicated a countless number of hours throughout the years to helping children in the region grow their skills,” said RNL president Gerry Hall. “Helping to grow the soccer community in the Town of Bay Bulls has been a tremendous feat and they continue to strive for more. Between summer camps, running the fall, winter and spring indoor soccer sessions, coaching soccer at Mobile Central High School, volunteering with basketball, hockey, and school activities, coaching basketball at St. Bernard’s School, volunteering with the school breakfast program, and lobbying for upgrades to recreation equipment – this duo are busy volunteers.”
The Kinsmen Club of Witless Bay & Area, meanwhile, have been named the Volunteer Group of the Year.
The Kinsmen Club of Witless Bay & Area are a part of Kin Canada and was established in the area in the early 1980s, Hall noted. “This group is committed to giving back in and around the community, with their official motto stating, ‘Serving the Community’s Greatest Need,’” he added.
The Kinsmen Club work in conjunction with other community volunteer organizations such as the Knights of Columbus, 50+ Club, and Witless Bay Town Council.
Over the years, said Hall, the club has organized many fundraisers, contributed, donated, sponsored, supported, and carried out countless other acts of kindness to the community and area. “Their most recent project was the Community Pantry where they provided a space for community members to donate food for those in need. They also completed a school supply drive for the pantry and plan to do a winter clothing drive before the end of the year.”
The Kinsmen Club of Witless Bay & Area has supported all age groups within the community from school aged kids to seniors and are always there when a community member or group is in need, said Hall. The club has helped improve the social, physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing of Witless Bay and the surrounding area, he added.
Four other groups and individuals were recognized in various categories during the awards presentations held last week.
“These awards recognize the contributions of professionals, community groups, volunteers, and service groups who improve recreation in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Hall. “It is an honour to celebrate those individuals and their contributions. Without such hardworking folks, we wouldn’t be able to engage our communities like we do, or help our fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians live healthy and active lifestyles.”
