Since 2012, the Essex Region Conservation Foundation has been honouring local organizations and individuals for their philanthropy.
On Tuesday, it was this year's honorees' turn.
Among those recognized Mike and Debbie McMahon and Lakeland Homes. Their support for the John R Park Homestead has led to the creation of a new Conservation Centre, an important space for teaching, gathering, and exhibitions.
For the past two years, the McMahons and Lakeland Homes have matched gifts for the Foundation's Giving Tuesday campaigns, which raised funds to restore the historic Horse Barn and four other barns on the site.
"I first fell in love with John R Park Homestead at the age of 9 during a school field trip," said Mike McMahon, the president of Lakeland Homes. "That experience left a lifelong impression, and it's truly an honour to have the opportunity to now support the important conservation and restoration work taking place there."
The couple was awarded the Clifford Hatch Conservation Foundation Award.
An award for Outstanding Corporate Contribution recognizes a business that has made a significant contribution towards conservation efforts. This year's winner is ENWIN Utilities.
Among ENWIN's efforts is the ENWIN Powers Earth Day Travelling Show, which visits local schools to teach students about water and electricity conservation. The utility is also a supporter of the annual Earth Day Tree Planting celebrations in Windsor, which has planted more than 2,000 trees in the Little River Watershed.
Claire Wales is the first-ever recipient of the Conservation Legacy Award. It goes to an individual who has left a lasting mark on conservation in the region.
Wales first joined the Essex Region Conservation Authority's board in 2014. Under his leadership, the Essex Region Bike Tour grew significantly. He's also served as chair of the Essex Region Conservation Foundation, filling the positions of vice president and chair.
"Wales has made meaningful contributions to the governance committee, golf committee, strategic planning committee, and more," read a release. "Wales has provided thoughtful guidance, strong leadership, and a trusted voice for the foundation at events and throughout the community."
"While I'm deeply humbled by this recognition, it is not mine alone," said Wales. "It reflects the power of we, all of us working together to make a profound conservation impact across the Windsor-Essex Region."
Last year, the foundation raised $476,000 for conservation projects, including tree planting and habitat restoration, supporting children's outdoor education, and restoring historic barns at John R Park Homestead.
