Amherstburg Community Services pays tribute to its volunteers

Magician Ron Gudel receives help from a pair of assistants during his performance at Amherstburg Community Services’ volunteer appreciation dinner April 29.

Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) took time out last week to pay tribute to its volunteers.

The 2026 volunteer appreciation dinner was held last Wednesday night at the AMA Sportsman’s Association with volunteers from all of ACS’ programs welcome to come out to enjoy an evening together. Gardening was the theme this year, with people encouraged to come out dressed as a gardener or something that may be found in a garden.

A costume contest was also held as part of last Wednesday night’s event at the AMA Sportsman’s Association.

“This night is for you,” ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo told the crowds at the April 29 dinner. “It’s our small way of saying thank you.”

In an address to the volunteers filled with puns about gardening and flowers, DiBartolomeo said the volunteers have given a lot of time, showed a lot of patience and demonstrated a lot of heart in doing what they do.

ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo addresses the large crowd at ACS’ volunteer appreciation dinner held April 29.

“You have helped the community blossom in ways words can’t express,” said DiBartolomeo.

DiBartolomeo said the volunteers are dedicated and often have to overcome challenges along the way. They have “planted seeds of kindness” and “watered hope” through their efforts.

“You show up and that’s what makes you truly unbelievable,” she said. 

The small acts of kindness have turned into something beautiful, DiBartolomeo added.

“We appreciate you more than words can say,” DiBartolomeo said.

Mayor Michael Prue outlined his busy day last Wednesday, but noted he would not have missed the ACS volunteer appreciation dinner. He said met with entrepreneurs looking to bring jobs and employment to town, visited a ceremony at the Ronald McDonald House in Windsor where a $3 million donation was made and went to an Essex Powerlines meeting but wanted to ensure he was at the ACS dinner.

“I always look forward to this event,” said Prue.

Prue said the volunteers make daily contributions to the community.

“What is important is what you do each and every day,” said Prue. “This is a caring town. This is a wonderful town.”

Prue pointed out the financial support the Town of Amherstburg gives to ACS as part of its community grants, decided upon during annual budget deliberations. He stood behind the grant funding, noting all the services ACS offers to the community.

“Without you, this town would be a much poorer place,” Prue told the crowd.

Ron Gudel, an area magician who also served as master of ceremonies at the volunteer appreciation dinner, called those who assist ACS “beautiful souls.”

“I’m a big fan of everything you do and everything you stand for,” Gudel told the audience.

Amherstburg Community Services pays tribute to its volunteers

By Ron Giofu