After decades of volunteering in New Ross, Merlin Gates is being recognized for his community contributions.
The retired teacher is nominated for a Provincial Volunteer Award.
Gates spent the past three decades helping countless groups and says volunteers are the mainstay of the community.
However, as the population ages, he worries about the future of volunteerism.
“A lot of people in their 30’s and 40’s are now just starting families and that point in their life, especially if they both work, there’s precious little time for them to become involved,” said Gates.
He also points to fewer youth volunteering.
Gates will be recogized at a reception for all nominees in the municipality on April 13 in Blandford.
