St. Marys residents recognized for being “Strong As Stone”
In a heartfelt celebration of community spirit and selfless dedication, St. Marys continues to recognize those who make a difference through their unwavering commitment and generosity.
At its meeting last night, Town Council recognized eight residents for their selfless deeds as part of its “Strong as Stone” program. The program allows people to nominate those whose volunteer acts that benefit the community.
Bruce and Nancy White were among the recognized group as they actively volunteer their culinary skills for local initiatives, including organizing church suppers and creating special meals for fundraising efforts like Giving Tuesday. They develop and share healthy recipes using produce from the Nourish Market, offering tastings at the market to encourage the community to try nutritious foods.
Sydney Touzel was also recognized and has raised vital awareness of intimate partner violence by planning, training for, and completing a 20+km run to raise funds for Optimism Place on the 6-year anniversary of her own life-threatening attack, inspiring community engagement and support. Through collaboration with Optimism Place in Stratford, Sidney’s efforts in fundraising, interviews, and guest speaking have expanded outreach and offered hope to those in need across Perth County.
Anna Doupe is a cancer survivor and lead organizer of the Terry Fox run/walk since 2018. Her energy has increased participation and fundraising, raising over $17,000 in 2025 alone while always supporting volunteers with her positive spirit. Anna has modernized the event by implementing cashless donation apps and boosting its social media presence, ensuring the Terry Fox run remains accessible and impactful in the community.
Nathan Brown generously volunteers his culinary talents, preparing meals for the annual “To St. Marys With Love” supper and cooking with Nourish Market ingredients for the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser walks, always bringing joy and warmth to these community events. Beyond his role as a chef, Nathan coaches his children’s hockey teams and leads as President of St. Marys Minor Soccer, exemplifying dedication to enriching both his family and the wider community through sports and mentorship.
Julie Shackleton was recognized for her outstanding commitment to the community by inspiring the addition of festive Christmas lights on the green bridge, enhancing town spirit and enjoyment for all residents. Julie is an also active member of the St. Marys Kinette Club, delivers Meals on Wheels with the Friendship Centre, supports the Library Panty as a volunteer preparing for monthly meals for the community members and is a hard-working member of the Giving Tuesday Committee in St. Marys keeping Giving Tuesday thriving in St. Marys.
The final recipients were Marco and Louise D’Angelo. The two dedicate their time and expertise to organizing, shopping for, and preparing nutritious meals for seniors at the Friendship Centre, ensuring quality through meal testing. They also grow produce in their community garden and donate it to the local food bank and pantry. They actively support charitable initiatives, including planning and fundraising for the United Way Coldest Night of the Year event, organizing Giving Tuesday meals for the local food bank, and volunteering at the Town's volunteer appreciation event to prepare and serve a hot meal for the Municipal department’s volunteers.
"The Strong as Stone program is a testament to the incredible spirit of our community and the selflessness of those who continually uplift and inspire others,” says Mayor, Al Strathdee. "Recognizing these individuals is important for all of us on Town Council."
The next call for Strong as Stone nominations will start in spring 2027. An announcement will be made when nominations open through the local media, social media, and the Town website (www.townofstmarys.com).
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For media inquiries:
Lauren Thomson-Vernooy | Corporate Communications Coordinator
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | lthomson@town.stmarys.on.ca