2026 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards

We are especially pleased to share that six members of Fairlawn Avenue United Church who volunteer in the Walk-in Support team, have been selected to receive the 2026 Ontario Volunteer Service Award.

Ontario Volunteer Service Awards recognize nearly 5,000 exceptional volunteers across 30 local ceremonies. Administered by the Government of Ontario, the program honours continuous service in five-year increments with personalized certificates and lapel pins.

The Fairlawn nominations were submitted by Barb Springgay, a member of the Fairlawn Embrace Action Walk-in Support Volunteer Team, who took the initiative to put forward the names of volunteers whose dedication and service deserve recognition.

Because there was a limit to the number of nominations that could be submitted, Barb faced the difficult task of selecting individuals from among the many people who generously volunteer their time and talents in support of our church and community. We are grateful the recipients received this special provincial recognition and we also recognize that this honour reflects the spirit of service shared by so many throughout our congregation.

Walk-In Support gathers on the first Tuesday of each month, September through June. Our dedicated volunteer team arrive early morning to prepare and open our doors at 9:00am to provide a welcoming, respectful, and safe space for members of the vulnerable population in our community. Guests are offered food, compassionate one-on-one conversation, and an opportunity to connect with others in an atmosphere of dignity, care, and belonging.

Please join us in celebrating:

• Rob Metcalf, Co-chair WIS (20yrs)
• Doug Knights, Co-chair WIS (10yrs)
• Sue Metcalf (20yrs)
• Jannie Mills (15yrs)
• Jim Pollock (5yrs)
• Kathy Salisbury (15yrs)

For more information about the award ceremony, including who is able to attend, please reach out to Joanne Christie, Administrator at ac.de1786697935tinue1786697935uneva1786697935nwalr1786697935iaf@e1786697935nnaoj1786697935 or 416-481-6848 x.21.

The 2026 Toronto Ceremony will take place on:

Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 7:00pm

Toronto Reference Library,
Bram and Bluma Appel Salon
789 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON M4W 2G8

During the ceremony, recipients will be presented with a lapel pin and a certificate in recognition of their commitment and dedication as a volunteer.

Following the presentation, there will be a light reception with refreshments.