Nineteen individuals, businesses and organizations across Simcoe County have been recognized for their work making the region a more welcoming place for older adults.
The honourees received their awards at the County of Simcoe's 2026 Age-Friendly Recognition Awards ceremony on the evening of Oct. 6, according to a County of Simcoe news release.
The annual awards celebrate people and organizations whose efforts improve accessibility, strengthen social connection and enhance quality of life for aging residents throughout the county. This year's recipients were nominated by community members, colleagues, customers, clients and peers who witnessed the impact of their work firsthand.
Warden Basil Clarke praised the honourees for turning the idea of age-friendly communities into action.
"Creating age-friendly communities is a shared responsibility, and these award recipients demonstrate what that commitment looks like in action," Clarke said in the news release. "Whether through exceptional customer service, innovative business practices, volunteerism, advocacy or simple acts of kindness, each recipient is helping to make Simcoe County a more welcoming place to age. On behalf of County Council, I extend my sincere congratulations and gratitude to all of this year's honourees."
A county-wide commitment
The ceremony, hosted by CTV Barrie's Sarah Freemark, drew community leaders, family members, nominators and supporters. Awards were presented in two categories: individual recognition and business recognition.
The recognition program is part of the county's broader effort to support a growing older adult population. The county has followed the World Health Organization's Age-Friendly Communities framework since 2015, and in 2025 it was officially designated a member of the WHO Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities.
The county also recently launched its refreshed Positive Aging Strategy, which runs from 2025 to 2030.
How the program works
Through its Age-Friendly Program, the county partners with municipalities, organizations, businesses and residents on initiatives aimed at improving quality of life for older adults across the region.
The program's stated goal is to build inclusive, supportive communities where older adults can age well and remain active, connected and engaged at every stage of life.
Residents who want to learn more about the Age-Friendly Program or the recognition awards can visit simcoe.ca/age-friendly, email agefriendly@simcoe.ca, or call 705-726-9300 ext. 3127.
The County of Simcoe is made up of 16 member municipalities and delivers a range of public services to residents, including paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia.
