Wellesley Township honours Citizen of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award recipients

Pearl Frey of Hawkesville has been named Wellesley Township's 2026 Citizen of the Year in recognition of nearly three decades of volunteer service and community leadership. Contributed photo

Jerry Sherrer of Linwood is the recipient of Wellesley Township's 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing decades of volunteerism and leadership throughout the community. Contributed photo

By Gary West

Wellesley Township has recognized two longtime volunteers whose decades of service have made a lasting impact on their communities.

Pearl Frey of Hawkesville has been named the township's 2026 Citizen of the Year in recognition of her outstanding commitment to volunteerism and community service.

A Hawkesville resident for nearly 30 years, Frey has served on the Hawkesville Recreation Services Committee for 28 years, including terms as chair and longtime treasurer. She is also well known for maintaining the village's community email list, helping residents stay informed and connected.

Beyond Hawkesville, Frey volunteers her time planning and supporting events throughout Wellesley Township while balancing family life and operating a local business.

She credits her husband and family for supporting her volunteer efforts over the years.

The township recognized Frey's kindness, generosity and dedication to strengthening community connections, noting she exemplifies the spirit of the Citizen of the Year award.

The township also announced Jerry Sherrer of Linwood as the recipient of its 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award.

A lifelong Linwood resident, Sherrer was recognized for a lifetime of leadership, volunteerism and community service spanning several decades.

Now 85, he remains an active volunteer and continues to give back through a variety of organizations.

Sherrer has been a dedicated member of the Linwood Lions Club for many years, where he currently serves as secretary. Throughout his time with the club, he has held numerous leadership positions and helped organize fundraising initiatives benefiting Linwood and neighbouring communities.

He was recently recognized by Lions Clubs International for his efforts recruiting and sponsoring new members, helping ensure the organization's continued growth.

Sherrer has also played a key role in organizing Linwood Snofest, including its popular Solo tournament, horse races and Golden Ticket Dance.

Drawing on a career in banking, he has continued to serve the community through volunteer work with Community Care Concepts for Woolwich, Wellesley and Wilmot, helping support services that allow seniors to remain independent in their own homes.

He also volunteers as a driver for the Wellington Waterloo Community Futures Development Corporation, helping support entrepreneurs and local businesses.

In recognizing Sherrer, the township noted his decades of quiet, consistent service have left a lasting legacy in Linwood and beyond, making him a deserving recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.