Author: Abbeyfield_Durham

Mary received her award at the Abbeyfield Durham BBQ on June 13 from Mayor Kevin Eccles and Rhonda Flanagan from Abbeyfield Durham and Abbeyfield Canada.
— Abbeyfield Canada is proud to announce that Mary Yack of the Abbeyfield Houses Society of Durham has been named a recipient of the 2026 Robert McMullen Award for Lifetime Volunteering Excellence, one of the organization’s highest honours recognizing outstanding long-term volunteer service. The award was presented during the Abbeyfield Canada Annual General Meeting in Kelowna, British Columbia. The announcement was made by Lynne Thornton of Abbeyfield High River, on behalf of the Abbeyfield Canada Marketing and Communications Committee. During the ceremony, Thornton noted that the selection committee received three exceptional nominations this year and determined that all three nominees were equally deserving of recognition. Mary Yack has served as a dedicated volunteer director with Abbeyfield Durham since 2009, including her role as Recording Secretary. Over more than 17 years of service, she has become known as a compassionate leader, a trusted source of institutional knowledge, and a tireless advocate for Abbeyfield’s mission. In announcing the award, Thornton described Mary as “the heart and spirit of Abbeyfield,” recognizing her unwavering commitment to residents, volunteers, staff, and fellow board members. She highlighted Mary’s exceptional organizational skills, dependable stewardship of records, and the kindness that defines her service. “Mary makes sure that every resident and board member feels seen and valued,” Thornton said. “Through handwritten notes and cards for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and other important milestones, she has helped create a warm and welcoming environment where people truly belong.” Mary’s influence extends far beyond her formal responsibilities. She has supported countless fundraising initiatives, community events, and day-to-day activities while building meaningful relationships with residents and encouraging younger generations to appreciate the value of volunteering and learning from seniors. Her personal experience supporting her own parents, including her mother’s residency at Abbeyfield Durham, has deepened her understanding of the importance of dignity, community, and compassionate care for older adults. “Mary leads through quiet, consistent care,” said Paul Glendenning, President of Abbeyfield Durham and the nominator for the award. “Her presence has made Abbeyfield Durham a
stronger, warmer, and more connected home. She truly represents the very best of lifetime volunteering.” Accepting the honour, Mary joins a distinguished group of volunteers whose dedication has strengthened Abbeyfield communities across Canada. The Robert McMullen Award recognizes individuals who have provided ten or more years of sustained service, demonstrated leadership,inspired their peers, and made lasting contributions to Abbeyfield and the communities they serve. Abbeyfield Canada extends its heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Mary Yack for her extraordinary service and for exemplifying the values of compassion, community, and volunteerism that are at the heart of the Abbeyfield movement.

About Abbeyfield Canada
Abbeyfield Canada supports a network of Abbeyfield houses and developing societies across the country, providing affordable, supportive housing that enables older adults to maintain their independence while enjoying companionship, security, and a strong sense of community. 

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