Philanthropist Couple Awarded By United Way For 16 Years of Community Contribution

Philanthropists Jim and Katie Stewart were recognized by the United Way Peterborough & District with the Scholfield Award of Community Distinction for outstanding community contribution in a ceremony at the Holiday Inn on Tuesday.

Katie Stewart (left), Jim Stewart (middle) and Jim Russell, United Way C.E.O. (right) during the award presentation to a crowd of roughly 50 people at the Holiday Inn. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The couple were well recognized as nominator Anne Marshall of Elmhirst’s Resort gave 12 signed letters of support and endorsements from 30 community leaders.

The award recipients were humbled by the award saying that it wasn’t about being noticed but just being able to help the community.

“We didn’t ask or expect any recognition,” said Jim. “We just saw a need and did our best and use our skills to full and get the job done.”

The Stewarts were humbled and filled with gratitude when they learned of their nomination.

“I was in tears to be honest,” said Katie. “I was just totally overwhelmed. Anne Marshall was the person who shepherded the process... …When she told us it was like ‘holy jumpins’,” said Katie.

The two started contributing to the community upon joining it 16 years ago. They helped several community organizations including Hospice Peterborough, The New Canadian Centre, The Canadian Canoe Museum, The Mount and The Peterborough Canoe and Kayak Club several other humanitarian projects and initiatives.

“We were delighted to have received several wonderful nominations and although each nomination reflected very worthy individuals and groups who have done much for our community, there was one nomination which stood out, the nomination of Jim and Katie Stewart,” said Anne Ondercin, United Way director of philanthropy.

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