Weekly newsletter: May 7, 2024

Another week, another newsletter!

I often find myself reflecting on the heartbeat of Ottawa. The reality is that there are lots of things that contribute to it, but at the core of it is its volunteers.

Every year since 2011, Volunteer Ottawa has hosted the VOscars to recognize individuals, organizations, and businesses who have made a difference in the community. It’s thanks to the dedication of volunteers that so many organizations exist in Ottawa.

Past Lifetime Achievement Award winners have included Max Keeping, Grete Hale, and Dave Smith - but, these awards are not just for recognizing the “big names.”

Volunteer Ottawa relies on public nominations to recognize amazing volunteerism in the Ottawa region. You can help them recognize helpers by nominating someone. There are seven categories:

• Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award

• Outstanding Older Adult Volunteer Award

• Leadership in Skilled Volunteering Award

• Leadership in Corporate Volunteerism Award

• Pathways to Possibilities Award

• Outstanding Volunteer Program Award

• Mayor’s Award for Volunteer Spirit

Nominations are open until June 14th at 5PM.

Tickets are also available to attend the event in person on October 24th - whether you know a recipient or not, it promises to be a great night. Keep your eyes on the Volunteer Ottawa website for more on this in the weeks to come.

With that, have a great week ahead!

-Wilson