Kim Plante (Citizen of the Year) Tim VanWoudenberg (Sponsor Steady Point Osteopathics and Wellness)
The Heartbeat of a Community
The Citizen of the Year award recognizes the individual who has most significantly impacted the Dunnville community through service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to others.
Some citizens lead through titles. Others lead through presence. Through consistency. Through showing up — again and again — often without recognition.
This year’s nominees — Zak Keyes, Kim Plante, and Deborah Pearson — each represent the generosity and dedication that strengthen Dunnville in visible and invisible ways.
And the 2026 Winner Is…
Kim Plante
If you spend any time at community events in Dunnville, chances are you have seen Kim Plante — even if you didn’t realize the full extent of what she contributes.
One nomination captured it beautifully:
“There is rarely an event, charity, or fundraiser I attend where Kim is not present in some way.”
She is often behind the scenes — selling tickets, sweeping floors, preparing fondant for Smile Cookie decorating, setting tables, stuffing envelopes, organizing vendors, cleaning kitchens, offering hugs, and greeting people with her signature warmth.
“She is usually behind the scenes… offering her biggest smile and warmest hugs to everyone she meets. Status is never a requirement for her kindness. With Kim, everyone is seen.”
Kim’s volunteer work spans countless organizations. She has been instrumental in organizing Tim Hortons Smile Cookie decorating, helping coordinate fondant preparation so the community can participate. She supports the Dunnville Hospital & Healthcare Foundation through envelope stuffing, fundraising walks, golf tournaments, and galas.
As an active member of the Optimist Club of Dunnville, Kim organizes and participates in Family Day, Canada Day, Beer Gardens during the Mudcat Festival, the Holiday Online Auction (which funds local scholarships), the Christmas Market, and vendor coordination for the Home & Garden Show. She is certified to teach the Babysitter Training Course and “My Safe Life” — offering these programs at no cost so families can benefit.
Her service extends further — assisting Rotary events, Connect 6 golf tournaments, Chamber events including the Mudcat Festival, Business Awards, Women’s Day, drive-in movie nights, and more.
And perhaps what stands out most is this:
“Kim never waits to be asked. She simply arrives and says, ‘Where can I help?’”
Another nomination reflected something even deeper:
“Kim lives on very limited means and often struggles herself. Yet her generosity is constant… She gives not because she has excess, but because she has heart.”
Whether for one hour or twenty, whether in rain or snow, Kim shows up. She gives her time, her energy, and her compassion without expectation of recognition.
One nominator wrote:
“Kim Plante embodies the true spirit of citizenship: selflessness, compassion, and service without recognition. Our community is stronger, warmer, and more connected because of her presence.”
That is the essence of this award.
Sponsored by Steady Point Osteopathics and Wellness
This award was proudly sponsored by Steady Point Osteopathics and Wellness, a local business committed to supporting the overall wellbeing of the Dunnville community. Recognizing Citizen of the Year aligns with their belief that community health is strengthened not only physically, but socially — through compassion, connection, and service.
Why This Award Matters
Communities are not built by buildings or infrastructure alone. They are built by people — by those who quietly serve, encourage, and lift others without seeking credit.
The Citizen of the Year award reminds us that everyday acts of generosity shape the culture of a town.
Congratulations to Kim Plante, and to all nominees whose dedication continues to make Dunnville a place where people show up for one another.
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.