Congratulations to Laura Meffen, Chair, CTN Family Advisory Committee (FAC) and Michelle Woodward, Family Mentor and FAC Member, on being recipients of the 2021 Ontario Volunteer Service Award.

Each year, National Volunteer Week takes place in April to thank the millions of volunteers all across Canada who are making a difference in their community. Part of these celebrations include recognizing the winners of the Ontario Volunteer Service Award. This year, CTN put forward two nominations for this prestigious provincial award to recognize Laura and Michelle for their continued efforts and commitment to CTN.

Laura has supported CTN for over five years in different volunteer capacities at CTN. Inspired by her daughter Emily, who passed away in 2021, she has been influential in  many ways, including being a volunteer family mentor and Chair of FAC. We are grateful that she remains connected with us and for her advocacy work on behalf of CTN clients and families.
 
Growing up I was very aware of my grandmother and mother volunteering their time to help our community. So, it was natural that I continue their legacy of giving back. Volunteering at CTN and helping other families gives me comfort that I am using my experience and knowledge that I gained with my angel, Emily. Now, that she is no longer with us, it is a way to honour her legacy and to keep in touch with so many amazing friends that I have met along this journey Laura, CTN FAC Chair and 2021 Ontario Service Award Recipient.



Michelle also received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award this year and has been a long-time volunteer with CTN. From being a volunteer family mentor and member of FAC, to supporting service providers and families in Alliston with events and community relations, her influence has become an important part of CTN’s culture. Her son, Cole, has now carried on the family tradition of giving back to CTN, through his own role as volunteer youth ambassador, CTN award artist and speaker.  



While we were unable to celebrate in person last year, a virtual ceremony was held in February 2022 to honour all recipients. Congratulations to Laura and Michelle on your well-deserved awards!

On this National Volunteer Week and always, a heartfelt thank you to all of our CTN volunteers for helping build brighter futures together.