TORONTO, Ont. (May 3, 2017) – During National Volunteer Week (April 23 to 29), Diabetes Canada celebrated its volunteers by honouring both national and regional volunteer award winners in Ontario for their dedication in supporting people living with diabetes.
“We are honoured and grateful for the time, energy and expertise our volunteers share with us and the communities they serve in to support people living with diabetes,” says Candy Lipton, senior leader for Eastern Canada at Diabetes Canada. “Our volunteers enable us to reach so many more people and provide programs and services that are making a real difference. We are thrilled to formally acknowledge their outstanding work and support through our awards.”In Ontario, Diabetes Canada presented or is presenting five national volunteer awards and 39 regional volunteer awards during ceremonies throughout the week and at later events.
Some highlights include:
National award winners:
Volunteer of the Year Award - Marta Khan
Marta has been volunteering with Diabetes Canada for 30 years! First volunteering at D-Camps, she has also served on committees, volunteered at events, participated in door-to-door residential campaigns and is a regional delegate. Marta’s passion to be involved in everything and anything has been an invaluable support to Diabetes Canada and the community.
Volunteer of the Year Award - Celso Oliveira
Celso has been a dedicated volunteer for more than 10 years. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes himself, Celso has become a powerful spokesperson and motivator for people affected by diabetes. He has dedicated hundreds of hours working on fundraising and provincial, national and youth advocacy initiatives to support others living with diabetes.
Regional award winners:
Volunteer of the Year Award – Mel Viner
Mel began volunteering with Diabetes Canada when he decided to help with his area’s residential door-to-door campaign. Since then, Mel has personally raised more than $325,000 from both the door-to-door campaigns and other fundraising initiatives. His tenacity has helped maximize fundraising efforts in his community.
Outstanding Health-Care Professional Award - Ann Petgrave
Ann is a registered pharmacist and the vice president of Diabetes Canada Caribbean Chapter since 2012. Her formal lectures regarding medications, her community outreach providing diabetes education and advocacy work have been vital people living with diabetes.
Young Volunteer Award – Hannah Ribble
Hannah began volunteering with Diabetes in 2015 at only 11 years old. Since that time, she has organized “walk” fundraisers and has raised more than $5,500 to support people with diabetes. Her boundless passion and energy has helped build awareness in her community.
To learn more about volunteering opportunities at Diabetes Canada, please visit diabetes.ca/volunteer.