From the Office of the Mayor – National Volunteer Week – April 19-25, 2026

April 19, 2026

In Mississippi Mills, volunteerism isn’t something that happens in the background – it’s the heartbeat of our community.

Maybe you help coach a youth hockey team in Almonte or Pakenham or you spend your evenings on the stage rehearsing with the Riversong Players. Perhaps you tend the gardens at the Almonte Cenotaph or in downtown Pakenham, or greet visitors at one of our three museums. Some of you prepare meals for neighbours through community food programs like A Meal for All, crochet poppies for the Community Poppy Project or sort clothes at the Hub. Others organize fundraising events for the Almonte District Hospital Fairview Manor Foundation, lead Scouts, Guides, and 4H-ers or help newcomers feel welcome as they settle into our community.

What makes Mississippi Mills truly special is not only the dedication of long-time volunteers, but also the new energy and passion that continue to emerge. Every year, more residents – young people, new families, recent retirees and newcomers to our community – step forward with fresh enthusiasm and new perspectives. Their involvement strengthens the work already being done and ensures that the spirit of volunteerism remains vibrant and resilient for generations to come.

No matter how you give your time, your kindness strengthens the fabric of Mississippi Mills.

To every volunteer – THANK YOU. You are the truest expression of community spirit. Whether you contribute for a few minutes, an hour or several days each month, your efforts shape the warm, connected and caring community we are so proud to call home.

National Volunteer Week runs from April 19-25, 2026. To celebrate the strong tradition of volunteerism in Mississippi Mills, the Municipality, along with the Almonte Civitan Club, the Hub and Carebridge Community Support are once again co-hosting a Volunteer Appreciation Event.

If you volunteer with any organization in Mississippi Mills, please join us Tuesday, April 21 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Almonte Civitan Hall (500 Almonte Street) for a delicious dessert buffet as we honour all those who give so generously of their time and talents.

This year’s theme, ‘Ignite Volunteerism’ invites us to spark new energy, connection and passion for giving back. That spark is alive and well in Mississippi Mills, and I’m grateful every day for the people who keep it burning bright!

Sincerely,

Mayor Christa Lowry
Municipality of Mississippi Mills