For Marilyn Pellerin, volunteering has always been about bringing people together.
On September 28th, Marilyn was recognized in Halifax as the Municipality of the District of Guysborough’s 2026 Volunteer of the Year at the 52nd annual Provincial Volunteer Awards. It is an honour that recognizes years of service, leadership and a commitment to creating opportunities for people in rural communities to connect and participate.
Giving back to a community that welcomed her
Marilyn and her husband, Sylvester, moved to Larry’s River in 2005. Semi-retired at the time, Marilyn was eager to give back to the community that had welcomed them so warmly.
After attending a meeting of the Guysborough Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, she was inspired to get involved. She soon took on leadership roles, serving first as Vice-President and later as President. Her volunteer work also extended beyond the local community. Marilyn served with the Nova Scotia Hospital Auxiliaries as Newsletter Representative and, more recently, as Education Chair.
But one of Marilyn’s most recent initiatives has brought together communities across the eastern part of the Municipality.
The beginnings of Club 7
Following the isolation of COVID-19, Marilyn led a small grant initiative focused on rebuilding social connections in rural communities.
With the support of dedicated volunteers, that initiative grew into Club 7 — named for the seven original communities involved: Whitehead, Port Felix, Charlos Cove, Larry’s River, Lundy, Tor Bay and New Harbour.
What started as an effort to reconnect people has grown into a vibrant initiative offering opportunities for socializing, physical activity, education, crafts and the arts.
At the heart of Club 7 is a simple goal: creating opportunities for people to come together close to home. Keeping programs free and accessible has also been important to Marilyn. By removing cost as a barrier, Club 7 creates opportunities for more people to participate.
Marilyn credits the support of volunteers, the Municipality’s Recreation Department, municipal Councillors and community grants in helping make those opportunities possible.
A recognition shared with many
At the Provincial Volunteer Awards, Marilyn accepted the honour with the many people who have supported Club 7 in mind. She is proud of what the initiative has become and of the volunteers who have helped it grow.
For Marilyn, the recognition is not just about one person. It reflects what can happen when people see a need in their community, come together and decide to do something about it.
Congratulations Marilyn on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for the many ways you continue to bring people together!
