Community Grandioses

There are people whose commitment is measured in hours. Others, in years. And then there are those who make serving the community a way of life.  Denis Daigle is one of those people.

For more than four years, he has served as President of the Toys for Joy Committee, an initiative that brings far more than gifts, offering warmth, hope, and comfort to families and children in our region during the holiday season. Denis Daigle is an inspiring and deeply compassionate leader, recognized for his willingness to help, his generosity, and his strong sense of responsibility.

A volunteer firefighter for 18 years, now serving as Captain of the Drummond Fire Brigade and 3rd Vice-President of the Northwest Firefighters Association, he has a positive impact both within the community and across the region.

Through his interventions and preventive work, Denis plays an essential role in keeping our community safe, always present and consistently demonstrating professionalism.

His dedication to youth and education was reflected in his nearly ten years of service on the Comité parental d’appui at the Mgr Lang School.  Simply put, Denis is far more than a dedicated volunteer. He is an exemplary citizen and a reassuring, inspiring presence.

His commitment transforms lives and creates lasting connections. It is this rare combination of leadership, humanity, and sincere dedication that makes Denis Daigle an exceptional volunteer, fully deserving of this honor for his service to the community.

With nearly forty years of exceptional volunteer service, Francine Simard-Levesque has touched countless lives. Her generosity, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment have made a meaningful difference in the community, particularly in sports and arts.

For nearly two decades with the Malobianah Figure Skating Club, Francine supported the development of young athletes. As a member of the executive committee, she coordinated evaluation days and year-end performances, brought her creativity to decorating the events, and helped design and prepare costumes. Through her constant commitment, she developed the personal and athletic growth of countless young participants, instilling discipline, creativity, and perseverance.

Ten years ago, Francine fulfilled a dream by co-founding Acanthus Galery with two fellow artists. Since its opening, Francine has devoted countless hours ensuring the smooth operations of this non-profit organization. She recruits artists for exhibitions, organizes workshops, prepares grant applications, and oversees budgets. Her energy and professionalism have helped create a vibrant space where local creativity thrives.

A driving force in promoting visual arts in the region, Francine continually seeks new ways to showcase artists through events such as La Rue des Arts and the ExpoFest. She also teaches painting and wood sculpture workshops, sharing her expertise and inspiring others to explore their creativity.

Francine Simard-Levesque’s commitment to culture and sport makes her a true pillar of the community, fully deserving of this recognition.

For more than 30 years, Mr. Éric Lavoie has distinguished himself through his remarkable commitment to improvisation and his profound influence on youth and the francophone community of New Brunswick. Discovering his passion in high school in 1992, he quickly stood out as a player, earning the title of Most Valuable Player three times at the provincial improvisation championship, La Gogoune dorée.

At the end of his studies at Polyvalente Thomas-Albert, he chose to invest in the future of the institution that shaped him by becoming head coach of the improv team, a role he has carried out voluntarily for more than 25 years. Under his leadership, the team won two provincial championships and was awarded several times the title of “most sportsmanlike team,” an honour that holds particular meaning for Éric as it reflects the values that shape him: respect, attentiveness, and teamwork.

Éric has been recognized many times for his exceptional contribution to improvisation, both as a respected mentor and as a builder of the provincial network. His leadership earned him eight nominations as a coach. In 2012, he was inducted into the New Brunswick Improvisation Hall of Fame. The following year, he was invited to play in the National Improvisation League, where he earned the 2nd Star of the Game. More recently in 2024, he received the PTA’s Prix Thomas Recognition Award, followed by the Community Support Award at the provincial Éphémères Gala in 2025.

Through his warm and caring approach, Éric has deeply impacted generations of students. He has created a safe and supportive space where young people can express themselves, build confidence, and grow both artistically and personally. His journey illustrates the strength of true passion and solidifies his place as a prominent figure in the cultural area of our community and across the province and the nation.

Nanette Chiasson, Beatrice Long, Céline Lévesque and Nathalie Bernard volunteer their time during tax season at the Grand Falls Public Library to help low-income individuals and families file their tax returns and receive the benefits to which they are entitled.

Since 2021 alone, thanks to their commitment, nearly 800 people have benefited from this essential service. But their work goes back much further. The free tax clinic has been offered at the library since 2015, and some of these dedicated women were already providing this service before that, through the local food bank.

Their volunteer work is not only compassionate, but far-reaching. It puts money in the hands of those who need it most. And thanks to this program, the library receives provincial funding that supports the purchase of new books and the development of activities and programs for the whole community.

The Grand Falls Municipal Council expresses its sincere gratitude to Nanette, Beatrice, Céline and Nathalie. Their commitment, generosity and spirit of cooperation make a real difference every year, and they are the very embodiment of community spirit.

It is with deep appreciation and admiration that council presents them with a Community Grandioses award in the volunteer category. They fully deserve this recognition, not only for the hundreds of people they help, but also for the human warmth and sense of duty they bring to our community.

Since joining the Board of Directors of the non-profit organization, Valley SPCA, in 2017, Tanya has been a crucial member and has embodied commitment, compassion and determination. As treasurer, she rigorously ensures the organization's financial management, in addition to overseeing the smooth running of the weekly lottery, a crucial source of funding for the shelter.

Tanya's involvement goes far beyond numbers. She opens her heart - and her home - as a foster family for pregnant and post-partum cats. Thanks to her, over a hundred kittens have been born into a safe and loving environment. This gesture of tenderness is priceless.

Always present at fundraisers such as Spaghetti Day, BBQ Day, spaghetti sauce production days, and active in the various daily tasks at the shelter, she is an indispensable pillar of the team and a very dedicated volunteer. Her constant commitment makes a real difference, both to the animals and to the community as she has also been an active member of the scouts and guides movement for over 15 years.

With this well-deserved recognition, council thanks Tanya for her immense heart, invaluable time and unwavering commitment. This award reflects the impact she has had - and continues to have - on the lives of so many animals and other volunteers.

Élijade Picard, a Grade 12 student at Polyvalente Thomas Albert, is a true force of generosity and dedication. Don’t be fooled by her young age, as her involvement in the community is nothing short of remarkable! Whether through her regular visits to patients at the Grand Falls General Hospital, where she brings smiles and comfort, or through her active role on numerous school committees and local initiatives.  Élijade gives her full energy and commitment to everything she does.

Over the past few years, Jessie has generously offered bike repairs, given skateboarding lessons, organized community BBQs for International Go Skateboarding Day, and donated more than 60 bikes to local residents. Thanks to his generosity, many families—children and adults alike—have been able to enjoy the municipal skate park and discover the joy of cycling, even when cost might have been a barrier.

What sets Jessie apart is that he acts without seeking recognition. Whether it’s sharing his passion or keeping the skate park welcoming, like when he took the initiative to remove graffiti, his goal is always to create a family-friendly, positive, and safe environment for everyone.

Through his spirit of helping others and his generosity, Jessie inspires the entire community and serves as a positive role model for the younger generation of Grand Falls. His ongoing commitment and sincere desire to make a difference make him a truly deserving recipient of this award.

In 2016, driven by a deep desire to build a more inclusive community, Maurice Rivard introduced the Special Olympics program in the Northwest region—a project he developed from the ground up.

Without any personal connection to disability, he chose to dedicate his time and energy to offering individuals living with intellectual, physical, or other challenges the opportunity to thrive through sport.

For nearly ten years, he has volunteered to guide, motivate, and support these extraordinary athletes, helping them develop a sense of belonging, achievement, and pride. Thanks to his commitment, many have had the honor of representing our region at the provincial Special Olympics, proudly showcasing the strength of our community.

In addition to his hands-on involvement, Maurice coordinates numerous fundraising efforts that ensure the program’s sustainability. His journey reflects a genuine commitment and exemplary kindness, and he consistently demonstrates compassion, empathy, and respect, always striving to support others selflessly.

Julie Bossé is, without a doubt, a golden volunteer. Whether through municipal activities such as Christmas workshops, March Break and Easter activities, or major events like the Acadian Day celebrations and Halloween’s haunted house, Julie is always ready to lend a helping hand and share her passion with others. She gives her time with enthusiasm, energy, and a contagious smile.

For her, getting involved is not an obligation, it is a way of contributing to collective happiness. She helps creativity shine among our youth by offering free art workshops, ensuring that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have access to culture and artistic expression. Her involvement extends far beyond these events and activities as she serves on the Board of Directors of the Farmers’ Market, has contributed for several years to the success of the local Maritime Junior Hockey League Rapids communications team, and was deeply involved as a civilian instructor with the Air Cadets for seven years.

Julie always acts with a big heart, lots of humour and is guided by a sincere desire to create a positive and lasting impact. She brings people together, inspires others, and demonstrates that small, consistent acts can truly transform and bring a community together.

For her exemplary dedication, her creative and innovative spirit, and her outstanding contribution to the development of community activities and collective well-being, this Community Grandiose Certificate in the volunteer category is proudly presented to Ms. Julie Bossé.

Some voices touch the heart, while others transform it. A radiant soprano, passionate voice teacher, proud mother of two daughters, and a true lover of life, Chantal possesses the rare gift of moving and uplifting her listeners. With her velvety tone and natural elegance, she captivates audiences in a way few can.

Depuis plus de 30 ans, sa voix résonne sur de nombreuses scènes, d’abord dans son coin natal, puis à travers le Canada et jusqu’en Europe.

Son talent lui a valu de prestigieuses distinctions, dont celle de Meilleure chanteuse nord-américaine internationale. En Italie, lors du 56ᵉ Concours international, elle réalise un exploit remarquable en remportant un triplé rarement vu : Premier Prix, Prix du public et Prix du meilleur candidat étranger.

Mais l’histoire de Chantal commence tout simplement, dans la musique familiale. Dès l’âge de quatre ou cinq ans, elle chante déjà avec son frère et sa sœur. À six ans, elle prend ses premiers cours auprès des religieuses. Plus tard, elle entreprend un baccalauréat en chant classique à l’Université de Montréal. Ayant réalisé que l’administration n’était pas sa voie, elle a échangé les chiffres pour bâtir sa carrière une note à la fois.

Depuis, sa voix l’a menée sur de grandes scènes, aux côtés d’orchestres d’exception. On l’a aussi vue au cinéma en 2022 dans le film Arlette de Marilou Wolfe, ainsi qu’au théâtre dans la pièce Albertine en cinq temps, où elle a profondément touché le public.

Mais au-delà de la scène, Chantal est aussi une passeuse de passion. Elle enseigne aux jeunes chanteurs lyriques à l’École de musique Vincent-d’Indy et, chaque dimanche, les fidèles de la paroisse des Saints-Anges de Lachine peuvent entendre sa voix réconfortante lors de la messe.

Même à distance, on reconnaît en elle ses racines : la culture acadienne, les grandes soirées familiales de musique folklorique et les rigodons.

Et puis, il y a ces moments de pure magie, lorsqu’elle accompagne la chorale de sa mère au Foyer Villa des Chutes. Voir les résidents s’illuminer, se souvenir et retrouver les paroles des cantiques de Noël est un cadeau précieux qu’elle leur offre.

Chantal, merci de faire rayonner ta passion partout où tu passes. Merci de représenter ta communauté avec autant de grâce, de générosité et de cœur. Ce soir, c’est avec grande fierté que nous te rendons cette reconnaissance citoyenne en t’accordant le Grandioses communautaire comme ambassadrice.

Julie Bossé is, without a doubt, a golden volunteer. Whether through municipal activities such as Christmas workshops, March Break and Easter activities, or major events like the Acadian Day celebrations and Halloween’s haunted house, Julie is always ready to lend a helping hand and share her passion with others. She gives her time with enthusiasm, energy, and a contagious smile.

For her, getting involved is not an obligation, it is a way of contributing to collective happiness. She helps creativity shine among our youth by offering free art workshops, ensuring that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have access to culture and artistic expression. Her involvement extends far beyond these events and activities as she serves on the Board of Directors of the Farmers’ Market, has contributed for several years to the success of the local Maritime Junior Hockey League Rapids communications team, and was deeply involved as a civilian instructor with the Air Cadets for seven years.

Julie always acts with a big heart, lots of humour and is guided by a sincere desire to create a positive and lasting impact. She brings people together, inspires others, and demonstrates that small, consistent acts can truly transform and bring a community together.

For her exemplary dedication, her creative and innovative spirit, and her outstanding contribution to the development of community activities and collective well-being, this Community Grandiose Certificate in the volunteer category is proudly presented to Ms. Julie Bossé.

Over the past few years, Jessie has generously offered bike repairs, given skateboarding lessons, organized community BBQs for International Go Skateboarding Day, and donated more than 60 bikes to local residents. Thanks to his generosity, many families—children and adults alike—have been able to enjoy the municipal skate park and discover the joy of cycling, even when cost might have been a barrier.

What sets Jessie apart is that he acts without seeking recognition. Whether it’s sharing his passion or keeping the skate park welcoming, like when he took the initiative to remove graffiti, his goal is always to create a family-friendly, positive, and safe environment for everyone.

Through his spirit of helping others and his generosity, Jessie inspires the entire community and serves as a positive role model for the younger generation of Grand Falls. His ongoing commitment and sincere desire to make a difference make him a truly deserving recipient of this award.

Michel Lang is a pillar of community development and volunteerism in Grand Falls, widely recognized for his unwavering commitment, particularly in the field of animal protection. Co-founder of the Valley SPCA in 2011, Michel has led countless fundraising campaigns and has never hesitated to knock on doors to raise awareness about the importance of having an animal shelter in the region. He devoted around fifteen years to this non-profit organization that is deeply close to his heart and without him, the dream of an animal shelter in our community would not have become a reality so quickly.

From his many duties as president to his active involvement in the day-to-day running of the shelter, he has certainly held several key roles within the organization. Thanks to his sustained efforts, hundreds of animals have been given a second chance at life. Even after stepping down from the board of directors recently, Michel continues to volunteer actively in various activities organized by the shelter, including the well-known Spaghetti Sauce fundraiser, which has become a beloved local must-have.

Michel’s commitment goes well beyond the SPCA as he has also been involved in the Richelieu Club and played a role in the development of the region’s cycling trail.

Through his optimism, determination, and generosity, Michel Lang truly represents the spirit of volunteerism, and his lasting impact on our community is one that deserves to be celebrated.