Last night Owen Sound awarded the 2020 Volunteer of the Year award to Liz Zetlin. The ceremony was pre-recorded as a covid precaution.

Here is Liz's acceptance speech.

Thank you Mayor Boddy and members of council for this wonderful honour. And thanks to Mary Anne Alton, who made the nomination, and members of the Climate Action Team, who helped put it together.

I am proud to live in a city that not only recognizes the importance of volunteers, but also recognizes volunteers who tackle the most challenging issues of our day.

Climate change is one of those issues. I know from working for three years with scientist Dr. John Anderson to produce Resilience: Transforming Our Community film, how important an engaged community it. How important it is to share our stories.

The Climate Action Team applauds the direction the city is taking in its updated Official Plan, which highlights resilience, sustainability, and a climate lens for all decision-making.

Cities such as Owen Sound that recognize the importance of volunteers and their role in community engagement are cities that thrive. These cities know that volunteers can help take on the tough issues and help mobilize people to participate.

Here’s one example of community mobilization that I’m proud of.

In May 2019, the Resilience film premiered to a standing room only crowd at the Roxy. Since then, thousands have watched the film. We’ve held post-screening discussions with around 25 community groups and offered many educational presentations.

As a result of the film, at least eight volunteer climate action teams have formed in our region and have created a climate network – to raise awareness, share best practices, and convince our governments to take action.

All that began with one volunteer scientist asking one volunteer artist to help him spread the message. We’ve learned everyone has something to contribute.

Contributing to community brings returns beyond the product of the work – in good friendships, in learning, and that powerful feeling of being part of something good, something that makes a difference.
I’m grateful for all of the committed, knowledgeable, and passionate volunteers I’ve worked with in the arts community, First Nations and the Rights of Water, and Climate Action movements. I share this award with them. And finally … for the future of our community, I’d like to say that …

Owen Sound, as the anchor for our region, and a hub for the arts, Owen Sound has a great opportunity to lead the way and collaborate with volunteers to make Owen Sound a resilient, sustainable place where we all love to live.

Thank you.

Liz Zetlin

View the video of Liz Zetlin's award presentation and acceptance here.