Midhurst/October 8, 2025 – The County of Simcoe is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Age-friendly Recognition Awards, honouring individuals and businesses who have made outstanding contributions to creating inclusive, accessible, and supportive environments for older adults across the region.
The awards follow a public nomination process held throughout the summer of 2025, during which residents were invited to spotlight those who exemplify age-friendly values in their work, volunteerism, and community leadership. Nominations were received from across Simcoe County, reflecting the deep commitment to enhancing quality-of-life for seniors in diverse and meaningful ways.
On the evening of October 7, the following recipients were celebrated for their contributions.
Congratulations to Individual Age-Friendly Recognition Award recipients:
- Beth Dubeau, Penetanguishene
- Linda Myles, Oro-Medonte
- Monica Menecola, Clearview
- Neill Latter, Orillia
- Rick Groves, Barrie
- Tayla Nesbitt, Orillia
- Saveria Caruso, Barrie
Congratulations to Age-Friendly Business Recognition Award recipients:
- Back to Barbering, Orillia
- Beach Builders Home Hardware Building Centre, Wasaga Beach
- Centre de Santé Communautaire CHIGAMIK Community Health Centre, Midland
- Foodland Beeton, New Tecumseth
- Habitat for Humanity Huronia & Restores, Barrie/New Tecumseth/Essa/Collingwood
- Hear Right Canada, Orillia
- The Hive Restaurant & Pub, Wasaga Beach
- MacLaren Art Centre, Barrie
- North Simcoe Arts, Midland
- Orillia Thrift Store, Orillia
- Quest Art School + Gallery, Midland
- Royalty Care, Barrie/Orillia
- Swiss Chalet, Wasaga Beach
“These awards shine a light on the incredible efforts happening across Simcoe County to support our aging population. From grassroots volunteers to forward-thinking businesses, our communities are working together to ensure that older adults can thrive, stay connected, and feel valued.” ~ Warden Basil Clarke
“These awards highlight the power of community-driven change. The recipients are not just meeting the needs of older adults, they’re reimagining what it means to age with dignity, purpose, and connection. Their leadership is helping build communities where age is embraced as a strength and we are proud to recognize their contributions.” ~ Jane Sinclair, General Manager of Health and Emergency Services
About Age-Friendly Simcoe County
The County of Simcoe is committed to fostering inclusive, supportive communities where older adults can thrive. Since 2015, Simcoe County has aligned with the World Health Organization’s Age-Friendly Communities framework to guide the development of its Positive Aging Strategy. The first strategy (2018–2023) laid the foundation for age-friendly infrastructure, planning, services, and programs across the region. Building on years of research, community engagement, and shared priorities, the County recently unveiled its revitalized Positive Aging Strategy (2025–2030) following a comprehensive needs assessment in 2023. This forward-thinking plan continues to promote programs and services that enhance quality of life for aging residents.
In recognition of its leadership and commitment, Simcoe County received official designation in 2025 as a member of the World Health Organization’s Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. The County also provides practical tools, resources, and assessment guides to help organizations implement meaningful changes and adapt to the evolving needs of older adults. To learn more about Simcoe County’s Age-Friendly program, including the Business and Individual Recognition Awards, visit www.simcoe.ca/age-friendly, emailing agefriendly@simcoe.ca or calling 705-726-9300 ext. 3127.
About County of Simcoe
County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.