WAVERLEY: Robert McDonald may have been surprised to hear his name called as the winner of the Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank volunteer of the year, but the 150 or so people in attendance weren’t.
McDonald’s dedication to volunteerism for many organizations, including the Waverley Amateur Athletic Association, which nominated him for the prestigious award, earned him the top honour during the seventh annual Volunteer recognition night held on April 30 at the Waverley Legion.
The award was McDonald’s second on the night after being presented with a gift certificate earlier in the banquet, which honoured volunteers for their hard work, sacrifice and dedication. There were 27 individual volunteers and groups honoured.
McDonald looked shocked as he approached the podium to receive his award. He listened as the list of his involvements over the years was read aloud, appearing first to reflect, and then to become a bit emotional. Then it was time: He was presented with a framed plaque honouring his accomplishments.
“I’m surprised at this,” he told the Laker after receiving his gifts.
McDonald is the one who began what is now the McDonald Sports Park, where a new baseball field will soon stand alongside the Cheema Aquatic Club.
“You wonder sometimes if anyone pays attention to the work you do,” he said. “But they obviously have been for me to be selected as this year’s volunteer recipient.”
phealey@enfieldweeklypress.com