by Edith Cody-Rice
Mills Community Support honoured Community Builders at a celebration dinner at the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum last evening. Introduced by Board Chair Karen Milligan and outgoing CEO Mike Coxon, the event honoured individuals who have helped the MIlls over the years to achieve its mission of building healthy, welcoming communities. Mr. Coxon who has headed the Mills for nine years, commented that there are many others in the community who deserve to be honoured but this year, the following special people, each with his or her unique story, were chosen for recognition:
Honorees and members of the board and management reminisced about their experiences with the Mills and noted that the organization had survived difficult times in the past to become the thriving and vital community service that it is today. The Mills started in the 1970’s as Almonte Community Builders when individuals from the community who had been striving to build affordable housing for low-income families formed the group to apply for grants to facilitate the building of affordable housing. Since that beginning the Mills has expanded to become a vital resource for our community offering a panoply of services encompassing housing, assisted living and home support, exercise classes, meals and services to ensure integration of those with special needs into the community.
Caterers North Market set out a delicious buffet of pork crown roast with apple stuffing, lemon and dill roasted salmon and Moroccan spiced lentil and caramelized onion stuffed peppers accompanied by a variety of salads. Desserts of fresh fruit, cookies, tarts and cupcakes were offered following the presentations.
