Ontario Celebrates the Contributions of Dedicated Volunteers

TORONTO – The Ontario government is recognizing the outstanding contributions and efforts of 6,658 volunteers through 27 virtual Volunteer Service Award ceremonies across the province. The individuals recognized by these awards have demonstrated how critical volunteers are and how they strengthen Ontario’s social fabric in our communities, especially with the devastating impacts of COVID-19.

“Today we are recognizing over 6,600 volunteers from across the province who have dedicated their time to causes that touch our lives in so many ways,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, they have found ways to keep on supporting their local communities during these difficult times. I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all of the volunteers who continue to demonstrate true Ontario spirit.”

“Volunteers are a vital part of communities across Ontario and demonstrate the very best of the Ontario spirit – they are an inspiration and example for us all and continue to make our province one of the greatest places to live,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. “I am so proud of these exceptional individuals who continue to strengthen our great communities and our great province. Our government thanks each and every volunteer who tirelessly and selflessly continues to support their communities during the COVID-19 outbreak.”

The Ontario Volunteer Service Awards recognizes individuals for continuous years of volunteer service at a single organization, such as a hospital, seniors centre or community association. Volunteers contribute to a wide range of services in Ontario, including supporting seniors and adults through Meals on Wheels, improving communities through local Lions Clubs, and much more.

The government encourages all Ontarians to consider nominating outstanding volunteers for this award. Organizations may submit any volunteer that they wish to recognize. If nominated volunteers meet the eligibility requirements, they will be selected to receive the award. The deadline for 2021 Volunteer Service Award nominations is April 1, 2021. Please visit Ontario’s website for more information on how to recognize an exceptional volunteer with the Ontario Volunteer Service Award.

Quick Facts

• Since 1986, more than 250,000 volunteers have been recognized through the Ontario Volunteer Service Award.
• Adult volunteers are recognized for five to 65+ years of continuous service in five-year increments.
• Youth volunteers are recognized for two or more years of continuous service.
• Find out how to nominate a volunteer for the Ontario Volunteer Service Award.

SOURCE  Province of Ontario