Chatham-Kent’s Kris McNaughton is one of just three people in the province to garner a 4-H Ontario Arbor Award this year.
The award signifies exemplary volunteer service with 4-H Ontario and the community.
McNaughton has been a 4-H volunteer for more than three decades with the Chatham-Kent 4-H Association and the Huron 4-H Association.
During this time, she has led 46 projects, been part of numerous committees and served as the association president. She has been instrumental in bringing 4-H to the broader community, starting the bicycle and engineering Lego projects, as well as leading Cloverbuds.
“Thank you to 4-H, my family and friends who have taught me so much. It is their support that has allowed and encouraged me to volunteer and enjoy the 4-H program,” McNaughton said in a media release. “I’ve been continually inspired by the incredible volunteers I’ve had the privilege of working alongside.”
McNaughton, Sharon Halpenny (Grenville 4-H Association) and Cheryl Sullivan (Carleton 4-H Association) were the recipients this year.
“Our 2025 4-H Ontario Arbor Award recipients are truly incredible people who have given so much of themselves to 4-H over the years,” said Megan Burnside-Poitras, volunteer and database manager for 4-H Ontario. “The difference they’ve made in the lives of youth and volunteers is immeasurable. Their kindness, dedication, and passion are beautiful reminders of what makes the 4-H community so special.”
The awards were handed out March 22 at a banquet in Richmond Hill.
Each of the recipients received an award featuring a hand-crafted metal sculpture of a tree and in addition, a tree will be planted in a location of their choice in honour of their contributions to the 4-H program and their community.
To be eligible to receive the award, 4-H Ontario volunteers must be nominated by their local 4-H Association. Nominees must have shown significant leadership, initiative and made a positive impact on 4-H at various levels. In addition, nominees must have other involvement within their community or other volunteer organizations.
The selection committee consists of previous Arbor Award winners.
