Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae recently presented a King Charles III Coronation Medal to St. Marys resident Gwen Ament.
A ceremony was held the night of March 11 at the St. Marys Council Chambers. In attendance was Gwen’s family, local council members and the public.
To be eligible for the King Charles III Coronation Medal one must have made significant contributions to the country, Ontario, region or community, or an achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.
Gwen was nominated by Al Strathdee, Mayor of the Town of St. Marys, Paul Dunseith, and MPP Rae for her charitable work and leadership in our community.
Some of her accomplishments include helping settle Ukrainian refugees in the area, helping organize the "to St. Marys With Love" annual community dinner, working with local Indigenous organizations, actively supporting Camp Kintail and serving as the leader of the St. Marys Ministerial Association.
"It was with great honour that I accepted the King Charles III Coronation Medal on March 11, and I thank those who nominated me," Gwen said. "Community has always been important to me largely because I feel very fortunate to be living in such a beautiful country with the privileges that I have. My nature is to work collaboratively bringing people together in endeavours that result in healthy, joyful, community."
"Gwen's leadership to our community has been truly remarkable," shared Al Strathdee, Mayor of the Town of St. Marys. "She has touched the lives of so many citizens and continues to be a role model for all. We are thrilled that Gwen has been recognized for her volunteer work and commitment to humanity."
"Together, our town of St. Marys settled three Syrian refugee families," Gwen added. "And together, we’ve welcomed upwards of fifteen families fleeing Ukraine. How could we not? Building the right relationships is so important and includes our learning and growing in understanding be that of the refugees, Indigenous peoples or those who face challenges of ability, finances, or human sexuality and I remain committed to creating opportunities for everyone to feel that there is a place at the table for them."