Hike Ontario Celebrates Golden Anniversary!
On the 28th of September Hike Ontario celebrated its 50-year anniversary at the Guelph Golf and Country Club, 133 Woodlawn Rd. E., Guelph. The Annual Meeting was hosted by the Guelph Hiking Club, and it was attended by over 100 people. A number of different educational sessions were held throughout the day with the Keynote Address by - Dr. Andrew Peregrine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph – “Tics in Southern Ontario and How to Identify the Lyme Carriers”. Note the Elgin Hiking Trail Club will host the Hike Ontario Annual Meeting in 2025.
Award of Excellence
Hike Ontario has recognized its Past President Tom Friesen with the “Award of Excellence”. Tom has been with Hike Ontario since 2005 and served as the President for 12 years. After stepping down from the President’s position, Tom continues to carry on as Chair of the Education and Certification Committee with all the responsibilities of coordinating the certification courses and mood walks program in partnership with CMHC and Conservation Ontario. Tom also plays a key role as a Hike Ontario Ambassador.
Congratulations and Thanks Tom!
Volunteer of the Year
Scott Mitchell has been recognized by Hike Ontario with the “Volunteer of the Year” award. Scott has been involved with Hike Ontario for over 10 years and served as the Chair of the Education Committee for a number of years. Scott stepped down from his Executive position back in 2022 but continues to help Hike Ontario. With his valuable expertise, skills and knowledge Scott manages Hike Ontario’s website.
Congratulations and Thanks Scott!
Strategic Plan
At its Annual Meeting the Board members for Hike Ontario approved the Strategic Plan for the years 2024 to 2030. The preparation of this plan engaged Hike Ontario’s Member Clubs and Associations, the interested attendees at the Annual General Meeting in 2023, the representatives of Hike Ontario’s Board and Executive members. This Plan includes an updated vision and mission that builds on the organization’s mandate. There are several key recommendations in the Plan with the main one being to develop a Business Plan with action items and targets, which would direct the implementation of this Strategic Plan.