Town honours local volunteer group for $100K in donated funds
November 18, 2025 at 4:47 AM
The Friends of the Fort Erie Public Library were formally recognized at town hall for reaching $100,000 in cumulative donations that have strengthened programs and resources across all three branches.
Town council presented the volunteer group with a certificate of recognition on November 17 and each member received a town pin from Mayor Wayne Redekop.
Mayor Wayne Redekop presents the Friends of the Fort Erie Public Library with a certificate Monday night for their decade of service. Credit: Andrew Hawlitzky | Fort Erie RadioFormed in 2014, Redekop called the donation milestone a meaningful achievement for a small community.
“They’ve been instrumental in expanding library programs, enhancing the library collections, and improving facilities for all of its patrons,” he said.
Most recently, the Friends contributed $10,000 to support the library’s operating budget, raised in conjunction with their biannual used book sale last month. Funds will help refresh shelves for junior readers aged 10 to 14.
The group’s contributions have helped pay for children’s programming, reading collections, activity stations, book club kits, digital resources, and equipment upgrades at the Centennial, Stevensville and Crystal Ridge branches.
Susan Jacobs, president of the Friends of the Fort Erie Public Library, said the recognition reflects years of work by many residents who support the library’s services.
“Our libraries are so important to our community and to all of us,” she said. “That is why we do what we do.”
Jacobs said she appreciated that council recognized every member as the work relies on a committed team rather than any one person. The group plans to continue raising money and supporting library programs without pause.
The Friends meet monthly at the Centennial branch and have already started planning their spring book sale and other fundraising efforts that will shape where their next round of donations goes.
At the same meeting, town council recognized the achievements of a local 16 year old air cadet, presenting him with the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.
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About The Author
Andrew Hawlitzky
Andrew is a Niagara community journalist who has covered everything from local politics to annual festivals and breaking news. He works to make local news a platform where community voices lead the conversation. "If you don't like the news, go out and make some!"
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