TORONTO - The Ontario government is recognizing the exceptional contributions of 10 individuals and six volunteer organizations through the June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism, presented today in a virtual ceremony. The award recipients include leaders who give their time to help seniors and children, support those who face violence in the community, and mentor and coach people of all abilities. 

"I am so proud of and grateful for the exceptional individuals and groups who continue to give back to their communities and demonstrate the very best of the Ontario spirit, especially amid these unprecedented times," said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. "Volunteers are a vital part of communities across Ontario - they touch our lives in so many ways, making our province one of the greatest places to live."

Journalist, author and Order of Ontario appointee, the late June Callwood was one of Canada's most well-known social activists, founding or co-founding more than 50 Canadian social action organizations. In memory of this outstanding individual, this award recognizes the exceptional leadership, innovation and creativity of volunteers and volunteer administrators who make Ontario communities better places to live and work.

"By selflessly helping others, volunteers across Ontario are an inspiration for us all," said Minister MacLeod. "As we celebrate the achievements and service of our award recipients from across the province, I encourage all Ontarians to look to them as an example of how we can strengthen our local communities and our great province."

Since 2009, 203 individuals and groups have received the June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism. An independent selection committee, appointed by the Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, reviews the nominations and recommends candidates to receive the award. The government encourages all Ontarians to consider nominating outstanding volunteers in their local community for this prestigious award. The deadline for 2021 June Callwood Award nominations has been extended to April 1, 2021.

Ontario thanks the volunteers who tirelessly and selflessly risked, and continue to risk, their lives to support their communities during the COVID-19 outbreak. Please visit Ontario's website for more information on how to recognize an exceptional volunteer or organization for the June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism.