Tim Dunlop wins MidlandToday’s first-ever Unsung Hero Award

When we called Tim Dunlop to inform him of his award win, he was driving. 

“I just dropped off a fan for a guy who doesn’t have air conditioning,” he explained once he pulled over. 

That was fitting, because Dunlop is MidlandToday’s first-ever recipient of the Community Builders Awards - Unsung Hero recognition. It was precisely his no-frills, hands-on approach to helping others that got him nominated in the first place. 

Earlier this year, we invited readers to nominate someone whose behind-the-scenes efforts help make Midland a stronger, more compassionate place. 

We received many inspiring submissions, but Dunlop’s nomination stood out. Dunlop has dedicated his life to meeting people exactly where they are, without judgment, and supporting them in the ways they need most. 

Rob Heming, a longtime friend of Dunlop, was the one who put his name forward. 

“I met Tim through the Y's Men’s Service Club about 20 years ago,” Heming said. “Even before he retired, he had a huge commitment to volunteerism. He’ll never retire from that.”

Over the years, Heming has seen Dunlop contribute to countless community efforts, from major fundraisers to small but meaningful gestures that often go unnoticed.

“Tim’s a hard guy to say no to,” Heming laughs. “But more importantly, he doesn’t say no to anyone either. He knows everyone and has a knack for getting things done, especially for people who can’t do it for themselves.”

When Dunlop learned he had been selected for the award, he was surprised. 

“I’m very humbled by this,” he said. “I don’t do it for recognition. It’s a passion.”

Dunlop explained that that passion began early in life. “I witnessed extreme poverty growing up. It sticks with me.” He was encouraged to help those less fortunate by his mom and dad.

He has spent his life in service to others. Dunlop has been a dedicated member of the Y's Men's Service Club for over 20 years and has played a central role in organizing the Annual Youth Music Festival, now in its 30th season.

“I’m not even musical,” he laughs. “But the kids and their families, they’re what keep me coming back. It’s inspiring to see how much time and energy goes into it. The whole community comes together—schools, teachers, families—all working to support the kids.”

Each year, the festival brings in professional adjudicators to provide feedback to student performers and concludes with the Festival of Stars concert, where scholarships are awarded to top participants.

“We give out around five or six thousand dollars in scholarships each year,” Dunlop shared. “This year, we had 300 people come out for the final concert.”

Beyond the music festival, Dunlop’s presence is felt across Midland. As a Deacon at St. Margaret’s Catholic Church, he provides spiritual support at regular services, local care homes and the hospital, where he also serves as an on-call chaplain.

“Tim is often requested for Celebration of Life events,” explained Heming. “He has a very straightforward manner. He doesn’t mince words. And a great sense of humour. Something about his way of talking, and listening, reaches people.”

The church is also the home of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, where Dunlop helps coordinate food, furniture and essentials for those in need. 

He often delivers donated items himself, connecting individuals with the tools to rebuild their lives.

“Rebuilding your life is mentally and emotionally difficult,” Dunlop shares. “Sometimes people just need a place to start and if I can help with that, I do.”

Dunlop also finds ways to include others in the work, offering volunteer opportunities to high school students and those he has helped in the past.

“Being present matters,” he says. “Not judging, just listening. It’s about being there, however you can.”

Simply “being there” is the foundation of Dunlop’s approach to community leadership. 

“It’s often the little things that mean the most,” Dunlop says. “Helping people doesn’t always have to be life-changing. It just has to be what they need in that moment.”

Heming sums it up simply: “He’s one of those people you can always count on. He’ll be there to help out with your next fundraiser, he’ll pick up a couch for someone who just got off the streets. And he does it without making a fuss. That’s just who he is.”

The MidlandToday Community Builders Awards was created to recognize an Unsung Hero: Someone whose selfless dedication helps build a better community. With his quiet leadership and tireless commitment to those around him, Tim Dunlop fits that description perfectly.

This year’s Community Builders Award was presented at the Southern Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce, where Mayor Bill Gordon, MP Adam Chambers, and Hannah Jones from the Office of MPP Jill Dunlop also presented certificates acknowledging Dunlop’s outstanding contributions to Midland.

Congratulations, Tim Dunlop, and thank you for all that you do for our community.

The Unsung Hero Award is generously sponsored by Midland Home Hardware Building Centre.