The Rotary Club of Fonthill is inviting the community to help recognize local leaders and volunteers who make a difference, as nominations open for the annual Paul Harris Fellowship Awards.
The honour is among the most prestigious distinctions within Rotary, awarded to individuals whose work reflects the organization’s guiding principle of “Service above Self.” Recipients are typically recognized for meaningful contributions to their professions and communities, with a strong emphasis on volunteerism and humanitarian impact.
As part of the recognition, the Rotary Club also contributes at least $1,000 in each recipient’s name to Rotary International through its Annual Fund SHARE program. The fund supports initiatives around the world focused on improving access to education, food, clean water, health care, immunizations, shelter, environmental sustainability and peacebuilding efforts.
Over the years, the award has highlighted a wide range of community builders in Pelham and across Niagara. Past honourees have included educators leading after-school programs, volunteers from Pelham Cares, contributors to the myPelham online community, and business owners known for giving both their time and financial support to those in need. Internationally, notable recipients have ranged from Mother Teresa and Arnold Palmer to Jane Goodall and Jimmy Carter, alongside local figures such as Doug Burr and Tom Rankin.
The club is now seeking nominations from across the Pelham and Niagara regions, including submissions from fellow service organizations and Rotary members. The nomination process requires basic contact details along with a paragraph outlining why the individual deserves recognition.
This year’s Paul Harris Fellowship Awards evening is scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026. Nominations must be submitted by Thursday, April 30, 2026.
The celebration will also coincide with a milestone for the club, as June marks the 35th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Fonthill. A new Rotary flag will be raised during the first week of June at MCC in recognition of the occasion.
To submit a nomination or learn more about the process, community members can contact foundation chair Annie Holtby at holtbyannie@gmail.com
