Volunteer Recognition
Lupus Ontario would not exist without the support of the many volunteers who help with organizing the WALK for Lupus, hold Third Party Events, participate in our committees and the Board of Directors, contribute to our newsletters by sharing their warrior stories, help with administration tasks, and so much more.
Each year Lupus Ontario recognizes the efforts of our volunteers through the Annual Donna Chu Award and the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards.
Annual Donna Chu Award
This award, presented annually, is in recognition of outstanding achievement, contribution, dedication or special service to Lupus Ontario and the lupus community. The recipient is chosen by the current President of the Board and presented at the Gala or the Annual General Meeting. The following is a list of the recipients since inception. Lupus Ontario is very grateful to all the recipients for their dedication to the lupus community.
Ontario Volunteer Service Awards
Each year the Ontario Government holds events across the province to recognize volunteers for providing committed and dedicated service to an organization. Adults are recognized by the length of time they have volunteered with one organization, ranging from 5 to 65 years of continuous service. Youth (24 years old and under) are recognized for two or more years of continuous service. Lupus Ontario is honoured to nominate volunteers for these awards to thank them for their dedication to Lupus Ontario.
The 2024 recipients were:
- 20 years
- Joni Waiser
- Brenda Cardillo
- Sandra Williams-Reid
- Laura Piccione
- Rob Piccione
- Heidi Nielsen
- 15 years
- Kiah Reid
- Sara Ramnarine
- Tom Koor
- 10 years
- Tanya Mahadeo Connacher
- Joy Phillips
- Linda Keill
- 5 years
- Sabrina Dussin
- Anne Divizio
- Sunita Mandi
Community Recognition Certificates
Lupus Ontario is honoured to receive Community Recognition certificates at various events throughout the year from both provincial and municipal government leaders. These acknowledgments highlight the organization’s dedication to supporting individuals affected by lupus through advocacy, education, research, and patient support. Notably, during the WALK for Lupus Ontario events, these certificates serve as a meaningful testament to the impact of the organization’s work and the collective efforts of volunteers, participants, and supporters. Lupus Ontario extends its sincere gratitude to the elected officials who take the time to recognize and celebrate the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of those living with lupus.
Images of scanned certificates organized by year
You can find them on Sharepoint here: Recognition Certificates