Arnrprior businessman earns top Rotary honour
Arnprior Rotarian Michael Steeves, right, presents Neil Slater, owner of the Arnprior Home Hardware, with the prestigious Rotary International Paul Harris Award in recognition of his generous support for many community organizations and projects.
One of Arnprior best-known businessmen and community boosters has received a top Rotary International award.
Neil Slater, owner of the Arnprior Home Hardware, was recently presented with the Rotary International Paul Harris Award. In making the presentation, Arnprior Rotarian Michael Steeves explained that Slater is renowned for his generous support of many community organizations and projects.
In response, Slater noted that since he bought the business in 1998, “I have always had a strong sense of community involvement. I feel that if you support the people around you, it will come back to you,” he said.
“We try to support as many causes as we can, through donations to a wide range of local groups. It may be the Humane society, bridge club or Community Living; all are equally important.”
Slater said that growing up in Pembroke, he has always liked the small town feel. “It is nice to know the customers personally and be able to help them on a personal level,” he said.
“I don’t consider them as just a customer; they are friends. It always makes me feel good that I am very often able to help people with an event or a problem, and see them come back over the years, knowing that I will support them again. This shows me that I am doing a good job.
“I appreciate the further recognition from the Rotary Club, and look forward to continuing to support our community.”