07/14/2026
We wouldn't be able to put on our run without Karen's key work behind the scenes and on race day!
The Town of Port Hawkesbury is pleased to announce that Karen MacKinnon has been selected as its Volunteer Representative for 2026. We extend our sincere congratulations and appreciation for her outstanding dedication and service to the community.
"Karen MacKinnon has dedicated countless hours of volunteer service to improving the quality of life in Port Hawkesbury and surrounding communities. For more than a decade, she has served on the board of the Leeside Society, contributing her time, leadership, and commitment to supporting local residents. Karen played a leading role in the development of the playground at Tamarac Education Centre, where she devoted significant effort to advocacy, fundraising, and project coordination to create a valuable community asset for local families. She currently serves as President of PHAST (Port Hawkesbury Antigonish Swim Team), where she works tirelessly to provide children and youth with a safe, supportive environment to learn and enjoy swimming. A cancer survivor herself, Karen has continued to give back by volunteering with the Canadian Cancer Society. She previously chaired the local Relay for Life and remains an active volunteer with the annual Terry Fox Run in Port Hawkesbury. In addition, she has contributed to community recreation through her previous service on the board of the Strait Area Curling Club. Karen approaches every volunteer role with enthusiasm, compassion, and a genuine desire to make her community stronger. Her leadership, dedication, and willingness to help others have had a lasting impact on countless individuals and organizations. She exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and is highly deserving of recognition."
