Strengthening the Heart of Our Community
The Charitable Organization of the Year award recognizes a charitable organization that demonstrates leadership through community activities and services, meaningful partnerships, and lasting contributions to Dunnville’s quality of life.
Charitable organizations form the backbone of compassion within a community. They step in where gaps exist, remove barriers, create opportunity, and build support systems that strengthen families and individuals alike. Their work often happens quietly — but its impact is profound.
This year’s nominees reflect the depth of generosity and leadership in Dunnville: St. Vincent de Paul, Julia’s Old Fashioned Christmas Charity, Bethesda Community Services Day Activities Site – Witham Centre, East Seneca United Church, East Haldimand Hospice, Dunnville Hospital & Healthcare Foundation (DHHF), Dunnville Rotary, and Dunnville Youth Impact Centre. Each organization contributes in unique and meaningful ways to the wellbeing of our town.
And the 2026 Winner Is…
Dunnville Youth Impact Centre
The Dunnville Youth Impact Centre continues to demonstrate dynamic, hands-on leadership in programs that support youth development, family engagement, and community partnership.
One nomination outlined the breadth of their initiatives:
Through the Broken Spoke Program, the Youth Impact Centre partnered with the Grand Erie District School Board, Haldimand County’s waste management facility, and Dunnville Secondary School to rescue bicycles from the Canborough Transfer Station. Grade 8 students from Mapleview Elementary and Thompson Creek learn to assess and refurbish bikes that are then donated to children and youth in need. The program not only promotes sustainability and skill-building, but also encourages students to enroll locally at Dunnville Secondary School. The initiative has gained such recognition that school leadership has been invited to present it to the entire Grand Erie District School Board.
On Friday nights, the Youth Impact Centre transforms Dunnville Secondary School into a welcoming space for Family Volleyball, where families of students in Grade 6 and up can play together in a non-competitive, encouraging environment. What began as a youth activity evolved into a family-focused initiative after students invited their parents to join. These evenings are offered at no cost, removing financial barriers and promoting healthy connection.
The Centre also plays an active role in the Planet Youth initiative, sitting on the steering committee for Grand Erie Public Health’s Lighthouse Community Strategy (Prevention Pillar). Through this work, the organization contributes to long-term prevention efforts aimed at reducing substance abuse among youth.
Their collaboration with other non-profits further demonstrates community leadership. When Dunnville Rotary needed teenage volunteers for a bottle drive, the Youth Impact Centre mobilized youth participants to support the effort — fostering service-minded leadership among the next generation.
Last summer, the Centre offered free Tennis Clinics at Lions Park, with nearly 30 children participating thanks to a JumpStart grant that provided equipment. These clinics broke socio-economic barriers and allowed families access to structured recreation at no cost. The Centre also coaches the Dunnville Secondary School tennis team each September, providing equipment and on-site support to reduce financial burden on the school.
Inside the Centre itself, free tutoring services are offered through dedicated volunteers — including retired teachers, educational assistants, college students, and community leaders — ensuring struggling students receive high-quality academic support.
This is what leadership in action looks like: partnerships across sectors, programs that remove barriers, and initiatives that empower youth and families alike.
Sponsored by GrandErie Home Hardware Building Centre
This award was proudly sponsored by GrandErie Home Hardware Building Centre, a business deeply invested in strengthening the Dunnville community. Their support of this category reinforces the vital connection between strong businesses and strong charitable organizations.
When local businesses champion charitable leadership, it creates a cycle of investment that benefits the entire town.
Why This Award Matters
Charitable organizations often address needs that directly affect education, mental health, recreation, and social development. Their work strengthens community resilience and builds the foundation for long-term prosperity.
Recognizing the Charitable Organization of the Year affirms the importance of service, partnership, and proactive leadership in shaping a healthier, more connected Dunnville.
Congratulations to the Dunnville Youth Impact Centre and to all nominees whose dedication continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.
The Dunnville Chamber of Commerce exists to support, connect, and celebrate local business. Through leadership, collaboration, and community-driven initiatives, the Chamber brings together entrepreneurs, organizations, and volunteers who are committed to helping Dunnville thrive. From business advocacy to signature events and recognition programs, the Chamber is proud to champion the people and enterprises that shape our community every day.