Aurora, Ontario, celebrated its most dedicated volunteers on May 26, 2026, at the annual Community Recognition Awards held at Town Hall, with over 120 guests gathering to honour individuals and groups that make the town a better place to live. Doug Steele was named Citizen of the Year for more than two decades of quiet service, while former mayor Tim Jones received a Lifetime Achievement Award for 40 years of community leadership.
Steele has given countless hours to Aurora, starting with the parent council at Light of Christ Catholic Elementary School and later becoming a cornerstone of Welcoming Arms, a food security organization that serves more than 900 people a month through community meals and food programs. He stepped in as acting executive director during the COVID-19 pandemic and now chairs the board. He also volunteers at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church and the Aurora Cares Community Action Team.
Tim Jones, who spent decades on town council and as mayor, was recognized for a lifetime of shaping Aurora through responsible growth and his ongoing volunteer work. He founded the Character Community Foundation of York Region, a charity that promotes character development across the region.
Mayor Tom Mrakas and council members welcomed guests and highlighted why volunteers matter. In a statement, the Town of Aurora said, “Volunteers are vital to making Aurora a great place to live. They help build an inclusive, caring community and help to mentor future leaders.” The ceremony also put a spotlight on local businesses and grassroots organizations that contribute to Aurora’s social fabric.
Men’s Shed Aurora, a gathering place where men stay connected and work on community projects, earned the Community Safety Award. Body Positive Fitness, known for its weight-neutral, body-affirming approach to exercise, received the Inclusivity Award. Highland GM Chevrolet Buick GMC took home the Good Business Award for its local investment and community involvement, while the 100+-acre Aurora Community Arboretum earned the Green Award for decades of environmental stewardship along the East Holland River valley.
