2025 Community Awards Spotlight – Gord MacDonald

Gord MacDonald – Community Builder

Our last features of 2025 Mississippi Mills Community Awards recipients focuses on Community Builders.

This award recognizes outstanding individuals who have made long-lasting contributions to the well-being of the Municipality and have exhibited leadership, vision and commitment to positive change. 

Our first recipient is Gord MacDonald. More commonly known as Sensei Gord, he has run the Almonte Judo Club since 1998, managing all aspects of the 110-member (and growing!) club. He has never missed a class in 30+ years! 

With his calm and caring approach, Gord has dedicated countless hours to teaching youth - building mental health, confidence, determination and pride in our community.  

Much more than just a martial arts instructor, under Gord’s mentorship children gain the skills to become confident young athletes in a safe, supportive and empowering environment where every child feels valued and respected. He fosters a community of kindness and respect at the Almonte Judo Club and always ensures members are recognized for their efforts and achievements. His influence reaches far beyond the dojo walls – into homes, schools and the community.  

Faced with rigorous restrictions during the pandemic, Gord skillfully navigated those challenges to continue offering classes, maintaining a sense of community and connection when many activities were disrupted. 

Gord also runs the Almonte Arm Wrestling Club, free of charge to residents, opening his home and giving of his time and expertise to guide young athletes. The club now holds several world titles, as does the Almonte Grip Competition Club he established.  

Gord is an inspiration to many through his commitment to healthy living, exercise and his nurturing nature to all he trains.  

Here’s what Gord’s nominators had to say about him: 

“Sensei Gord has been a steady and inspiring presence in Almonte, dedicating himself not only to the sport of judo, but to the development of the whole person in every student he teaches. His leadership of the Almonte Judo Club has helped create a space where young people learn respect, resilience and responsibility, while forming lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.” 

“I’ve seen several students come through the club with both physical and mental limitations and Gord takes it all in stride. The confidence he carries in his teaching is so powerful in these scenarios. The kids and adults facing these challenges do things that their parents and themselves never thought possible. It is truly inspirational.” 

Thank you for your inspirational contributions, Gord!