Many years ago, conversations were buzzing about Jean Burgess and the extraordinary amount of time, energy, and heart she poured into our community. Her tireless dedication inspired the creation of the Burgess Volunteerism Award — a tribute not only to Jean herself but also to the tradition of caring that runs deep in her family roots.

To mark this special honour, local artist Gordon Dunphy crafted a stunning piece of wood art (pictured above) and generously donated it to the Taymouth Community Association (TCA). This beautiful creation was proudly presented to Jean at our Annual General Meeting on February 18, 2006.

Recognizing the vital role that volunteerism plays in both our organization and the broader community, the TCA committed to presenting this award annually. Each year, at our AGM, we celebrate a new recipient — someone who, like Jean, makes our community a better place to live.

To permanently commemorate these contributions, a plaque designed by Roger Allen now hangs proudly at the top of the stairs in the community center. It features a photo of Jean’s original presentation, with a new brass nameplate added each year to honour subsequent recipients.

The base of the plaque carries its own piece of history: Gordon Dunphy crafted it from a section of a 350-year-old tree he discovered in what he fondly called "Maisie’s country", with permission to preserve a piece of it for this special project. Although Gordon has since passed on, his gifts and his spirit of generosity live on through this lasting tribute. We are deeply grateful to have had him — and continue to have Jean’s legacy — as part of our community’s story.

Recipients