August 26, 2026
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Turner Ruetz, a teacher at St. Anthony's School in Kincardine, has received the 2026 Steve Cameron Volunteer Achievement Award from Strong Smart, a children's literacy charity based in Waterloo.
This award was created in honour of Strong Start's founding board chairman, and recognizes individuals whose service reflects the values he championed: leadership, community engagement, and a commitment to helping children succeed.
A release by St. Anthony's School notes that Ruetz was selected for this recognition because of his outstanding contributions as site co-ordinator for the Letters, Sounds and Words™ program at the school. Through his leadership, approximately 30 children each year have had the opportunity to strengthen their literacy skills in a welcoming and supportive environment.
"Over the past three years, Turner (Ruetz) has successfully recruited, organized, and supported 35 volunteers who collectively contributed more than 750 volunteer hours to the program," states the release. "Yet, as noted in the presentation, 'numbers only tell part of the story.' What stands out most is the culture he has created, one where volunteers feel valued and supported, return year after year, and help children build both literacy skills and confidence."
During a recent visit to the school, staff and volunteers spoke highly of his leadership. Principal Jocelyn Auger praised the smooth operation of the program, while volunteer Melissa Clubbe shared how Ruetz's organization and flexibility enabled her to contribute meaningfully while balancing her work as a nurse at Kincardine Hospital. Seeing former participants and hearing about their growth provided further evidence of the positive impact that Ruetz and the volunteer team have had on children's learning journeys.
Strong Smart congratulates Ruetz on this well-deserved recognition, and is grateful for his leadership, commitment to children, and ongoing support of Strong Start's mission.
"Your commitment to literacy, your support of volunteers, and your dedication to helping children succeed, truly embody the spirit of this award."
Turner Ruetz (second from left) of St. Anthony's School in Kincardine, receives the 2026 Steve Cameron Volunteer Achievement Award from Cameron (left), founding board chairman of Strong Smart; Krista Tomini, regional program co-ordinator, Ontario North; and Machelle Denison, chief executive officer; photo courtesy of St. Anthony's School
Written ByLiz Dadson is the founder and editor of the Kincardine Record and has been in the news business since 1986.
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