WESTLOCK — If you know Ron Hermann, you may not be surprised to learn that he is the 2024 Clyde and District Agricultural Society’s Volunteer of the Year.
The long-time resident was honoured to be chosen for the recognition and since moving to the village in 2008, Hermann has made a difference for both the community and ag society itself. Over the years, he has prepared the village ball diamonds in the spring, helped keep the community clean and has planted many trees, to name but a few of the ways he has contributed to the Village of Clyde.
"It’s unbelievable. I can’t believe that I got nominated for this award,” said Hermann, noting the important role volunteers have in a community. “I think everybody has to have a little bit to say with the community and help with the community to keep (it) going. Volunteers help a lot.”
The award was presented at the society’s annual Ag 500 night April 27, at the Clyde Curling Complex. The award was given to Hermann by last year’s recipient, Kelly Patry, as a symbolic gesture of continuing the legacy of volunteer work in the village.
Ag society president Perry Lumayko said Hermann has been a great benefit to the community since the day he arrived.
“We’re always looking for help … Ron moved to the community and just jumped right in,” said Lumayko. “Then he just keeps showing up and never says no.”
Lumayko said Hermann goes about his volunteer work as a “silent volunteer” without too much of a spotlight and always goes above and beyond for the community.
“He’s not here for the praise, he’s just here to help out,” he said. “That’s what makes a small community work ... without volunteers we wouldn’t have what we have. We have beautiful ball diamonds, the grounds out here are well looked after and most of it’s volunteer work,” Lumayko added, noting that people don’t have to give a lot of time to volunteer, but said “if you’ve got an hour here, two hours there, come out and help.”
Hermann said he will continue volunteering and helping out wherever he can as long as he can, and encourages anyone of any age to get out in the community and make a difference.
“Just get involved with other people and help out. It’s always worth it and it’s always appreciated by the villages and towns,” said Hermann. “It’s very important to help out with the village. You get to know other people and how things are run in the village. It makes a world of difference just helping out.”
