Eight Residents Receive Community Awards

At last night’s Council meeting, eight exceptional individuals were recognized with Community Awards for their outstanding contributions to Russell Township.

Shauna Wanamaker Recognized for Environmental Leadership

Shauna Wanamaker received the Community Award for Environment. Inspired by the decline of pollinator populations, particularly the monarch butterfly, Shauna transformed her yard into a pollinator haven after completing the David Suzuki ButterflyWay training program in 2021. She went on to launch ButterflyWay Prescott-Russell, mobilizing residents to take action for biodiversity.Under Shauna’s leadership, ButterflyWay Prescott-Russell has:

• Shared over 2,000 native seed packages and distributed more than 3,000 native plants.
• Delivered educational programming to 10 schools.
• Established over 45 pollinator gardens on public and private lands.
• Encouraged six new ButterflyWay Rangers to join the effort.

Shauna has also contributed her expertise locally, including with the Russell & District Horticultural Society, Eco East, and Russell Township’s Environmental and Sustainability Advisory Committee. Her work demonstrates how one person’s passion can inspire broad community change and lasting environmental impact.

Russell Trivia Volunteers Honoured for Community Service and Volunteerism

Seven long-time members of Russell Trivia—Billy Cashman, Donna Lafrance, Paul Deveau, Larissa de Quimper, Melanie Burns, Stephanie Knight, and Travis Laramee—received Community Awards for Community Service and Volunteerism.

Russell Trivia has been running for 22 years, with this group working together for the past decade to raise nearly $1 million in support of local residents and community causes. After receiving the award herself last year, their leader Connie Johnston nominated the group for recognition this year.

What began as an initiative to help individuals in need has grown into a well-loved community tradition that now also supports service groups across the region.

Each member plays a key role:

• Larissa manages registrations, the Facebook page, and assists as treasurer.
• Stephanie serves as treasurer, balancing accounts and issuing cheques.
• Donna helps with set-up, admissions, and fundraising games.
• Billy is the auctioneer and logistical go-to person.
• Paul documents events as photographer, sharing photos online.
• Travis provides music and lighting, integral to the trivia evenings.
• Melanie ensures the venue is ready with tables, decorations, and auction setups.

Together, their dedication has created an event that not only entertains but uplifts the community by providing vital financial support to those who need it most.

Celebrating Community Spirit

These eight award recipients reflect the heart of Russell Township: residents who dedicate their time, skills, and energy to improving life for others. Whether through decades of volunteer-driven fundraising or innovative environmental leadership, their contributions will continue to benefit the community for years to come.

If you know a dedicated community member, or someone celebrating a milestone anniversary, submit a nomination! Requests and nominations are accepted year-round by contacting our Communication Department at comms@russell.ca.

As part of the Citizen Recognition Program, we offer:

• Certificate from the Mayor for Special Anniversaries/Events
• Community Award for Dedicated Citizens
• Key to the Township for National/Global Ambassadors

Learn more about our Awards and Recognition Program.