The Rotary Club of Barrie’s Military Service Above Self Award recognizes individuals whose voluntary contributions to the military community go far beyond what is asked of them. This year’s recipient, Corporal Karen Cahill, is exactly the kind of person the award was created for.
Karen’s contributions are deeply personal and wide-ranging. She has provided direct support to members recovering from surgery or injury, offered childcare and in-home help to the spouse of a deployed Canadian Forces member, served as a Sentinel in peer support, volunteered in kitchen operations, and helped individuals furnish their homes by donating items and coordinating community contributions. Within her workplace, she is affectionately known as the unit’s mom, consistently mentoring junior corporals and officer cadets, integrating them into Canadian Armed Forces culture, and guiding them toward the resources they need. She also continues her community work through the Borden Family Resource Centre.
When Corporal Cahill was presented with her plaque and $1,000 honorarium at the meeting, she donated it immediately to the Angus Food Bank. It was a gesture entirely in keeping with everything she had just been recognized for. Congratulations, Corporal Karen, and thank you for your service.
