1) The 2005 Victorian Tea and House Tour: a highly successful community fundraiser involving tours of 10 beautiful homes plus a delightful afternoon tea served by the WI members and their families, was a sold-out event which generated extensive funds for the purchase of equipment for the O’ Leary Community Hospital.

2) The Revitalization of the Knutsford School Community Centre through proposal and grant writing which facilitated numerous improvements such as the inclusion of accessibility ramps and equipment as well as historic projects including the Historic Panels and WI History project. The Centre continues to provide a central location for many community gatherings including the traditional Knutsford Christmas concert and carol sing, Halloween parties, Book and Bake Sales, Festival of Small Halls, and most recently, yoga classes.

3) Community participation in the P.E.I. Rural Beautification Programme, frequently winning awards for enhancement of the community. Fairley and the KWI members encouraged the community to get involved by painting their houses and fences, plant flowers, and even repair mailboxes. Many awards have been received, the proceeds which continue to support community improvement.

This is but a partial list of many community activities all which have helped develop Fairley as an enthusiastic community leader. Additional leadership involvement outside of WI, also at the local, provincial, and national levels, include: vice-president of the Provincial Status of Women, president of the P.E.I. School Board of Trustees, as well as Unit One vice-chair; charter member, as well as provincial and national director, of the Women in Support of Agriculture; plus, chairperson for many community events and festivals are but a few of her numerous leadership positions. Needless to say, Fairley is still engaged in community leadership. As a testament to her long-time dedication and commitment to community service, most especially through the Knutsford WI, Fairley received the 2018 P.E.I. Senior Islanders of the Year award where recipients were honored for their outstanding volunteerism and leadership. She and all the members of the WI are an ongoing inspiration to their family and friends, community members, and Islanders alike.

Written by her daughter, Judith MacKinnon

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