Ontario Volunteers Recognition 2026 Highlights Leadership and Community Service
TORONTO — The Ontario government is recognizing nearly 5,000 individuals for their contributions to communities across the province through the 2026 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards, one of the largest volunteer recognition programs in Ontario.
The annual awards, administered by the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, honour both youth and adult volunteers for sustained service to organizations such as non-profits, schools, hospitals, libraries, museums and community associations.
“The Ontario Volunteer Service Awards honour Ontarians who continue to show up for others through selfless, sustained service,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “We thank them for their commitment to helping others, fostering a sense of belonging and strengthening community resilience across Ontario.”
Province-wide ceremonies to honour recipients
Recipients will be recognized at approximately 30 ceremonies taking place across Ontario in 2026. Each honouree will receive a personalized certificate and a lapel pin marking their years of service.
The program recognizes adult volunteers in five-year service increments, while youth volunteers are acknowledged for two or more consecutive years of volunteer work.
According to the province, this year’s awards will recognize approximately 800 youth and 4,200 adult volunteers, representing contributions across 1,276 organizations.
Contributions span multiple sectors
The recognized volunteers have supported a broad range of community initiatives, including after-school programs, food security efforts, and services delivered through community organizations. Many recipients have also taken on leadership roles such as board membership and fundraising, while contributing to arts, culture, heritage and recreation programs.
The awards aim to highlight the critical role volunteers play in strengthening local communities and supporting essential services across Ontario.
Long-running recognition program
Established in 1986, the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards have recognized more than 260,800 volunteers over nearly four decades.
In 2025, the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism hosted more than 45 ceremonies recognizing over 6,400 recipients across the province.
Residents can learn more about the program and submit nominations for future awards through the official Ontario Volunteer Service Awards webpage.
Source: Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism
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