\u201cThe Canadian Platinum Jubilee emblem was created to mark the 70th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II\u2019s accession to the Throne,\u201d said MP Van Bynen at the outset of recognizing residents in this way. \u201cThe emblem is a symbolic statement of the enduring relationship between Canada and the Crown, as personified by our country\u2019s Head of State.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cMargaret Mead wrote: \u2018Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it\u2019s the only thing that ever has.\u2019 I believe this quote captures the spirit and will of the group honoured today. Perhaps they have not changed the world, but without a doubt they have made our communities better places to live. Each of the recipients has touched their neighbours with kindness, supported those in need, inspired others to join a movement, and demonstrated that regardless of age, we can make a positive difference to those around us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThank you for your compassion, energy, and love. I encourage you and others to continue reaching out to those in need, and through the spirit of your actions, let them know they are not alone. Let our communities continue to benefit from your generosity.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among the recent recipients were:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Inn from the Cold \u2013 Martha Berry (Volunteer Program Lead) and Executive Director Ann Watson. In recognition of their work meeting the needs of people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Aurora Food Pantry \u2013 Executive Director Sandra Seepaul and Board Chair Allison Stuart. In recognition of providing food assistance to individuals and families in need.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Southlake Regional Health Centre \u2013 CEO Arden Krystal and Tyler Chalk. In recognition of \u201cbuilding healthy communities through outstanding care, innovative partnerships, and amazing people.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Central York Fire Services \u2013 Chief Ian Laing and Deputy Chief Rocco Volpe. In recognition of responding to the community \u201ceffectively, professionally and competently to serve a wide range of emergencies and hazards and to provide comprehensive public safety education programs, fire safety inspections and investigation of fire incidents.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Newmarket Food Pantry \u2013 Liz Blight and Susan Little. For addressing food security issues faced by the residents of Newmarket and East Gwillimbury.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association \u2013 Jerisha Grant-Hall and Keisha Davis. For their commitment to engaging African Canadian communities and its allies through program delivery, education and partnership, to cultivate an empowered and united Black community in Newmarket.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Blue Door Support Services \u2013 CEO Michael Braithwaite. For services providing emergency housing in York Region as well offering supports for children, youth, men, women and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Community Living Central York \u2013 CEO Andrew Fagan and Board President Suzanne Connor. In recognition of providing support to people with intellectual disabilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of York \u2013 Gary Kryshka and Katie Lowes. For providing life-changing mentoring relationships for children and youth across York Region and Bradford West Gwillimbury.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Aurora Black Community Association \u2013 President Phiona Durrant and Bobbie Marshall. For advancing the diversity of Aurora by delivering programs and events that dismantle racism, support inclusion and equity, Black excellence, education and economic development.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Optimist Club of Newmarket \u2013 Vice President Rhonda St. John, Director Bob Thivierge. For being at the \u201cforefront of making a difference in children\u2019s lives since 1949\u201d through providing young people with the \u201cvalues and skills they need to become the exceptional community leaders of tomorrow.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Margaret Bahen Hospice & Doane House Hospice \u2013 Carol Edward, Lisa Coyne-Baxter, Ann Boden. For services providing hospice services to individuals with life-limiting illness in a home-like environment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Next Week: The Able Network, The Aurora Legion, York Region Paramedic Services, and more.<\/p>\n\r\n
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