Late last year, the GTHS took pleasure in nominating six volunteers for the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards. On September 7th, 2023, at an award ceremony held by the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, volunteers were presented with a lapel pin by Andrea Khanjin (MPP for Barrie-Innisfil) and a certificate in recognition of 5 to 65 years of committed and dedicated service to a local organization.
It was an honour to be surrounded by volunteers who have generously and selflessly contributed a combined total of 1,460 years to worthy causes within our community.
Please join us in congratulating award recipients from the GTHS: Paul Egan, David Garner, Dave Henderson, Sandy Robinson, Daniela Schulze and Chris Yorke.
Ceremony attendees pictured L to R: Chris Yorke, Dave Henderson and Daniela Schulze
When asked about what their recent nomination and recognition meant to them, our nominees had the following to say:
“In 2017 we moved up to Collingwood as full-time residents. For the 20 years previous, I volunteered countless hours for numerous organizations in Peel Region. In October 2017, I walked through the doors of the GTHS, in the hopes that this organization accepted volunteers. I didn’t even know if the GTHS had dogs on-site until I pulled into the parking lot and I heard the choir of many dogs singing the song of their people! And here I am, 6 years later, being nominated for an award of service when there are so many deserving fellow volunteers. It is truly humbling. I do not know who put my name forward, but truly thank you for believing that I have made a difference to the delicious doggos that I get to work with every time I walk through the doors. I feel like the GTHS has given me way more to me, including my 2 beasts Axel and Daisy and numerous friendships, than I have given back. Thank you isn’t a big enough word to express how honored I feel for being a GTHS volunteer. I cannot wait to keep volunteering and making a difference.” ~Daniela Schulze
“I had a very enjoyable evening at the Ontario Service Awards ceremony in Barrie last week. It was an honor to receive the Award. There are a number of other volunteers at the GTHS who could also be eligible for receiving the Award, and hopefully will be considered in future years. Like most volunteers, the joy of giving time and energy to worthwhile causes is why we volunteer. Recognition, such as receiving an Ontario Service Award, is very much appreciated. It was heartwarming and humbling to see and recognize the many volunteers of all ages, who for many years, have devoted time and energy to a multitude of organizations. The woman who volunteered to the same organization for over 50 years was an inspiration to me, as was the young boys who have been volunteering for their community Food Bank. I am grateful to the GTHS for nominating me.” ~Dave Henderson
