Citizens Recognized for Community Contributions
Posted on 08/01/2025
Mayor Philip Brown and Charlottetown City Council celebrated the achievements of residents who have made a significant impact in the community at an awards ceremony last night.
Held as part of the Natal Day celebrations for the City's 170th birthday, the event took place at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre to honour volunteers and community members who have devoted their time and efforts to making Charlottetown a better place to live, work and play.
“This celebration is a powerful reminder of the impact individuals can have on their community,” said Mayor Philip Brown. “Whether through volunteerism, community beautification or excellence in education, each recipient represents the heart and spirit of Charlottetown. Their contributions help shape a stronger, more connected city for everyone.”
“These awards highlight the everyday leadership and care that residents, volunteers and local organizations bring to our city,” said Councillor Terry Bernard, Chair of the Economic, Tourism and Cultural Development Committee. “From beautifying neighbourhoods to strengthening community connections, their contributions play a vital role in enhancing Charlottetown’s quality of life and sense of place.”
The Citizen Recognition Awards recognize extraordinary Charlottetown residents who go above and beyond to positively impact the people and community around them. This year, three residents were recognized: Emily Le, Matt Pelletier and Oyindamola Funsho.
The Forbes Kennedy Volunteer of the Year Award was established in 2019 in honour of Forbes Kennedy, a retired Canadian professional ice hockey player who approached his 30-year on-ice career with commitment and determination. The award goes to someone in the community who has made a positive impact and shows the same dedication and determination exemplified by "Forbie" himself. The 2025 Forbes Kennedy Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Edie Rogers.
The City of Charlottetown David “Eli” MacEachern Bursary was established in recognition of Prince Edward Island's first Olympic Gold Medalist, Charlottetown native David “Eli” MacEachern. It is presented annually to a student graduating from Charlottetown Rural High School, Colonel Gray High School or École François-Buote, who is dedicated to excellence in sports during their high school years. The 2025 recipient of the bursary is Alex Nicholson, a Colonel Gray High School student.
The Make Our Hometown Beautiful program recognizes residents, businesses and community groups who contribute time and effort to maintain beautiful buildings and landscapes. The winning properties in the 2025 Make Our Hometown Beautiful contest are:
• 1st Place – 15 Bayfield Street
• 2nd Place – 149 and 151 North River Road
• 3rd Place – 8 Ambrose Street
• Mayor’s Choice – 43 Evergreen Drive
The Make Our Hometown Beautiful program also recognizes participants in Downtown Charlottetown Inc.’s Adopt-A-Corner initiative. The 2025 winners are as follows:
Established
• 1st Place – Frank Zakem Memorial
• 2nd Place – Trinity United Church
• 3rd Place – Slay Maker & Nichols Gastro House
New
• 1st Place – Havenwood Dance Studio
• 2nd Place – Pink Crow
• 3rd Place – Tie between Beaton’s Wholesale & PEI Photo Lab