Brenda MacQuarrie Boudreau stands as the esteemed founding chair and driving force behind the Victoria Historical Association. For 15 years, she championed the preservation and interpretation of both the tangible and intangible heritage of Victoria-by-the-Sea.
In 2013, Brenda successfully reintroduced the annual Remembrance Day service to the village, drawing an impressive attendance of over 100 people - surpassing the village's population itself. Her work extends to various initiatives, including organizing fundraising concerts for the Historical Association, spearheading a campaign to restore the 'community piano’, and leading meticulously researched historical walking tours of Victoria. Brenda has hosted Heritage Day story circles, socials, and other events to share the rich stories of Victoria and the South Shore. Under her guidance, the Victoria Historical Association has become an integral participant in Victoria Day and Canada Day celebrations, emphasizing the significance of heritage in the community.
Brenda's efforts also encompass the conservation and digitization of historical documents and family genealogies. She has actively worked to identify and protect historic buildings in the village, highlighting those at risk and celebrating residents who contribute to maintaining the village's unique historic character. For these exemplary contributions, Brenda MacQuarrie Boudreau is being awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award.