2024 Walter H. “Doc” Phillips Memorial Award was presented to Surrey and Hugh Hardcastle
In 2019, Harpswell and the Brunswick Rotary Club lost a beloved member, Walter “Doc” Phillips. Alongside his wife Joan, Doc was a pillar of the community, contributing to the Conservation Committee, Harpswell Land Trust, and Rotary for over 40 years. To celebrate his legacy, the Brunswick Rotary Club established the annual Walter “Doc” H. Phillips Memorial Award in 2020. A plaque at the Harpswell Town Office Building honors each awardee. The recipients should be community members who have shown dedicated involvement in areas that were dear to Doc, such as land conservation, volunteerism, service to others, education, water quality, and science programs. The award is presented annually on Doc’s birthday.
This year we are happy to announce that the recipients of the Walter H. “Doc” Phillips Memorial Award are Surrey and Hugh Hardcastle.
Their contributions to the Harpswell community through various initiatives and organizations have been truly remarkable.
Surrey’s Contributions:
- Harpswell Aging at Home (HAH): Surrey is a key member of the HAH Steering Committee and leads the Food Team. This team coordinates the “Meals in a Pinch” program, delivering meals to those in need, and has provided over 4,000 meals this year. Surrey also organizes “Lunch with Friends,” bringing residents together to share meals and camaraderie.
- Community Involvement: Surrey is deeply involved with the Islands Community Church and is a founding member of the Knit Wits, a group dedicated to community service through knitting.
Hugh’s Contributions:
- Harpswell Aging at Home (HAH): Hugh serves on the HAH Steering Committee and leads the Transportation Committee. This committee coordinates drivers to assist residents in Harpswell, Brunswick, Topsham, and Bath who are unable to drive, ensuring they can attend appointments and run errands.
- Local Organizations: Hugh is on the Board of the Orrs Island Library and serves as its Treasurer. He is also involved with the Islands Community Church as a member of the Worship Committee and Treasurer. Additionally, Hugh has served as the Treasurer of the Carpenter Boat Shop, contributing to its mission of providing boatbuilding and life skills training.
Bowdoin College Involvement:
- Host Parents: Surrey and Hugh have been linked to Bowdoin College as Host Parents, fostering relationships with 15-16 students over the years. They have sponsored meals for returning athletes and connected students with HAH activities.
- Common Good Program: They have supported Bowdoin’s Common Good Program, which trains students in community development. This program involves students researching local non-profits’ needs, raising funds, and learning to write and submit grants.
Surrey and Hugh’s initiative, drive, enthusiasm, and genuine interest in others have significantly shaped a better Harpswell community. Their dedication to service and community engagement is truly inspiring.
Photo: Joan Phillips, Surrey & Hugh Hardcastle