2026 Community Awards Spotlight – Exceptional Volunteer Jennifer Hoy

Volunteers contribute to the vibrancy, diversity and strength of our community. This award is presented annually to exceptional volunteers whose contributions have made a meaningful and lasting difference in Mississippi Mills.

Jennifer is a tireless and deeply dedicated volunteer whose leadership has had a profound impact on the Mississippi Mills Youth Centre. After more than five years on the board, she now serves as its president, helping guide programs, support staff, and ensure youth have a safe, welcoming place to grow. Known as a steady, grounding presence, Jennifer is always the first to step up — whether it’s attending meetings, organizing fundraisers, or filling gaps wherever help is needed. Her support and mentorship have been invaluable to the MMYC team.

Beyond her work with youth, Jennifer also shares her talents with Home Hospice North Lanark as part of the Comfort Care knitting group, creating shawls and items of comfort for individuals receiving hospice care. Her compassion extends quietly and generously into every corner of the community.

Her nominators spoke with great admiration:

“Whether I need someone to talk through a challenging situation with or someone to celebrate good news alongside me, Jennifer always meets me with exactly the support, understanding and energy I need in that moment. Her kindness, reliability and genuine care for others have made a lasting impact on both myself and the MMYC community.”

“It is her infectious joy that Jennifer brings to her work as a volunteer that makes her truly shine. Even on what could be a terrible day, she is able to step forward with a smile and dig deep to lift up others around her. She leads by example, whether it is by lending her expertise in policy to ensure the centre is able to operate smoothly or even when she is first up to play ‘Just Dance’ with youth on a gym night.”

“Jennifer is an exemplary volunteer and captures the spirit of volunteerism that Mississippi Mills prizes itself on…When reflecting on the idea of community champions, Jennifer Hoy is a prime example that comes to mind. She continues to champion the work of Mississippi Mills Youth Centre and the importance of putting youth first in our community.”

Congratulations, Jennifer!