The Volunteer Action Centre has been serving people in Kitchener, Waterloo and the Townships of Wellesley, Wilmot

and Woolwich since 1984.

The concept that created the Volunteer Action Centre as a place to connect volunteers and organizations has developed over 30 years into a central hub which provides tools and re-

sources that facilitate connections between business, secondary and post-secondary learning institutions, with health, social service, recreation, cultural, and neighbourhood organiza-

tions and associations and fosters strong volunteer manage-ment \practices.

“I am very proud to be a part of an organization whose work

supports all aspects of our community. Our staff and volunteers do amazing work that is held up as an example for other towns

and cities across the country,” Jane Hennig Executive Director

I M P R E S SI V E I N S P I R A T I O N A L I N V E S T E D

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VOLUNTEERKW.CA

Saluting Waterloo Region’s

Volunteer Stars

I M P R E S SI V E I N S P I R A T I O N A L I N V E S T E D

9th Annual

VOLUNTEER IMPACT

AWARDS

Gala Dinner

Victoria Park Pavilion

Thursday, April 3, 2014

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EVENT SPONSOR: LIBRO

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www.volunteerkw.ca

Ontario ChangeTheWorld Youth Volunteer Challenge

Funded by:

The Volunteer Action Centre is pleased to present the second issue of

Volunteers: Inspiring Community during National Volunteer Week April 6-19.

There is no better time to celebrate the impact

that volunteers have on our community! We are proud to share this collection of local

volunteers’ stories and experiences in print and online at:

www.volunteersinspiringcommunity.wordpress.com

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Media Sponsors

The Cord Community Edition

exchanges ideas on building KW’s

community & culture.

Available in print every month in the Water-

loo Region Record and online at

community.thecord.ca.

Connect with us on Facebook (Cord Community

Edition) and Twitter (@cordcommunity).

Thanks To All Our Sponsors

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WELCOME

Welcome to the 9th Annual

Volunteer Impact Awards Gala!

Tonight, we honour volunteer stars, selected by a community panel, that shine with the impressive, inspirational, and invested quality of their work in Waterloo Region. Congratulations to each of you, and thank you for your contributions to our community through volunteerism. There were many wonderful individuals, groups, organizations, and businesses that were nominated for the awards again this year. All the nominees exemplify the value of volunteering by giving time, talent, and much needed support to many deserving causes. Thank you to those who took the time to put forward the nominations and recognize these outstanding contributions. Please enjoy this evening of celebration, with heartfelt thanks to all of our generous sponsors and contributors!

Jane Hennig, Executive Director

First Course

Moroccan Style Roasted Red Pepper Bisque with Cardamom Cream

Rosemary Focaccia Bread & Herb Butter

Main Course

Baked Brie & Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breast Roasted Pear & Brandy Sauce Confetti Vegetable Saffron Rice

Lemon Roasted Asparagus

or

Red Quinoa, Tempeh, Lentil Stuffed Baked Tomato with Arrabbiata Style Coulis

Confetti Vegetable Saffron Rice Lemon Roasted Asparagus

Dessert

Dark Dutch Chocolate Mousse Swirled with Berry Coulis Served in Short Stemmed Martini Glass

Topped with Berries & Mint

Tea and Coffee Station

MENU

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Table Sponsors

Thanks To All Our Sponsors

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Beer Sponsor

Dutch Mill Flower Shop

Emilly Grayce and Krista O’Connor, Photography

Rosemary Aicher, Artist

Stephen Schooley, Musician

TaxationLawyers.ca

Contributors

Volunteer Action Centre Supporters

Thanks To All Our Sponsors

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Hosted by Susan Cook-Scheerer Rogers TV - ‘daytime’

6:00 pm Cocktails and Silent Auction

Music by Stephen Schooley

6:15 pm Recipients - Group Photo

6:45 pm Salad Course - Gusto Catering

7:00 pm Opening Remarks:

Martin Kihle, Libro Financial Group

Award of Merit

- 30th Anniversary Presentation

Main Course & Dessert

- Gusto Catering

8:15 pm Guest Speaker:

Tim Jackson

Awards Presentations

9:15 pm Closing Remarks:

Jill Brush, Chair, Board of Directors,

Volunteer Action Centre

Silent Auction Closes

9TH ANNUAL VOLUNTEER IMPACT AWARDS

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL AWARD RECIPIENTS!

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The Award of Merit Reva Cooper

Youth Involvement Awards Kiran Veluvolu - Outstanding Youth

Rebecca Pister and Jennifer Durst - Adult Ally WAYVE Regional Team - Youth Engaging Organization

Group Engagement Awards MTE Consultants Inc. - Large Group Engagement

Tracey Johnston-Aldworth and Randy Warren - Small Group Engagement

Compass Kitchener - Board or Committee Action

Hands On Awards Doreen Fibke - Administrative Action

Ian Lang - Caring Action Joe Paiva - Special Event

Leadership Awards Rita Ross - Outstanding Leadership Deborah Young - Volunteer Manager

Volunteer Impact Award The May Court Club of Kitchener-Waterloo

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Silent Auction

Summer Family Fun! Value: $160.00 Family Pass to

Waterloo Region Museum Blackberry blanket

2 gift certificates (for 2 each) to Bloom Restaurant

Donated by: Waterloo Region Museum & Conestoga College

Call Me! Value: $700.00

Z10 blackberry smartphone Donated by: Blackberry

The Hostess with the Mostest Value: $900.00

Coursed dinner for 8 people catered in your house

Donated by: Gusto Catering Company

Planting For Success Value: $120.00

In-store landscape design consultations

Garden Guide 100th Anniversary book

Gardening Gloves Gardening Tools and bag

Donated by: Sheridan Nurseries

Night on the Town Value: $350.00

2 Blue Jays Tickets Donated by: MNP

New Do, New You! Value: $70.00

Gift Certificate for wash, haircut and style with Melissa

Shampoo and Conditioner for treated hair

Donated by: Brown Salon & Board of Directors Hot and Stylin’

Value: $70.00 Gift Certificate for wash, haircut

and style with Cagney Environmentally friendly

Shampoo and Conditioner Donated by: Brown Salon

& Board of Directors

Groomed To Date Value: $70.00

Gift Certificate for wash, haircut and style with Leanne

Shampoo and Conditioner Donated by: Brown Salon

& Board of Directors

Captured Memories Value: $80.00

5-image photo session for babies photo album

Donated by: Cuddle Bugz Photography

A Touch of Europe Value: $125.00

Framed Art & Print + bottle of wine. Donated by Lorie McMahon-

EmiLLy GraYce Photography.

THE AWARD OF MERIT To acknowledge a person, group or organization that has had a

broad impact on volunteerism.

Reva Cooper, founding Executive Director of the Volunteer Action Centre, draws from almost 30 years of volunteer experience. Since 1989, Reva has been both a coordinator and teacher for the Conestoga College Volunteer Management Certificate Program. The program focuses on helping organizations to implement best practices for recruiting and retaining volunteers. Reva’s lifetime commitment to volunteerism has not only made a significant impact on our local

community, but her dedication has been felt across the country. Reva has been active in provincial and national associations promoting volunteerism and supporting leaders of volunteers. Reva was a founding member of the Professional Administrators of Volunteer Resources –Ontario (PAVR-O) serving on the Board as Director of Advocacy. She is currently a member of the PAVR-O Mentor Committee. In her training and consulting practice, Reva assists clients to build and sustain strong volunteer programs. Reva has written several volunteer resources including “Skills Plus” − one of Volunteer Canada’s top three most downloaded resources.

Reva Cooper - Award of Merit

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YOUTH INVOLVEMENT AWARDS To recognize students, teachers, schools, and adults who have

made a significant contribution to positive youth engagement.

Kiran Veluvolu’s desire to learn, share, and grow has made him a remarkable volunteer and leader. Over the last three years, Kiran has volunteered over 300 hours to helping THEMUSEUM run many successful programs. Kiran has not only grown in confidence, but has developed expertise in many different topics ranging from abstract art to dinosaurs. Kiran’s friendly and courteous nature makes him a

natural at welcoming and informing youth campers and museum guests. Kiran’s dedication has easily made him someone that THEMUSEUM staff and volunteers can count on.

The Regional Presentation team from Working Against Youth Violence Everywhere (WAYVE) is hosted by the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington Dufferin. The team consists of 30 youth, ranging from grades 7 to 12, from 9 different schools across the Waterloo Region. WAYVE is a youth violence prevention and mental health promotion program for youth. The time commitment involved in this project is significant −

ranging from 80 to 100 hours per youth. The team meets weekly to receive training on important youth issues. The presentations, developed by the team, are offered to schools and community groups throughout the Region. The presentations provide youth with resources to seek help when they are going through difficult times. This team is an example of the powerful impact youth can make towards positive change. Individual team members become supports to their peers within their school communities, as well as to each other.

Kiran Veluvolu - Outstanding Youth

CMHA WAYVE Regional Team

- Youth Engaging Organization

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Silent Auction

Uptown Date Value: $100.00

2 Member passes ($3 off price of movie) expires Jan 2015 to

Princess Cinema Duke of Wellington $40 Gift Card Donated by: Princess Cinema &

The Duke of Wellington Pub

Foooorrrre! Value: $170.00

Two 2014 players cards entitling player to 25% discount on regular priced green fees

package of golf balls 2 Men's Golf Gloves

Golf Tees Donated by: Golf North

& Board of Directors Ready, Set, Golf!

Value: $200.00 Two 2014 players cards entitling player

to 25% discount on regular priced green fees

package of golf balls 2 women's Golf Gloves

Golf Tees Donated by: Golf North &

Board of Directors

Shakespearean Date

Value: $220.00 2 tickets to a designated

performance at the 2014 season of Stratford Festival

Donated by: Stratford Festival

Live Entertainment Value: $120.00

2 tickets to a preview performance during the 2014 season of

Drayton Theatre $40 Gift Certificate for Swiss Chalet

Donated by: Drayton Entertainment & Swiss Chalet (Weber St.)

Let’s Explore! Value: $75.00

Fairview Park Mall $25 Gift Card

Carry on suitcase passport wallet

Donated by: Cadillac Fairview & Board of Directors

Riding in Style Value: $110.00

Bike helmet Bike repair kit

Bike Pump Donated by: Anonymous

& Board of Directors

Golf Party to Go Value: $270.00

Dunlop Golf Bag Men's Large Golf Shirt

Donated by: Lorie McMahon

Dinner’s On Us Value: $100.00

Little Mushroom Catering $50 Gift Certificate off

catering services Bottle of Ontario wine Blackberry wine box

Donated by: Little Mushroom Catering & Blackberry

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Silent Auction

Aloha Spirit – Straight From Hawaii Value: $80.00

8X10 framed image of hibiscus flower/ Aloha from Hawai'i playing cards/ Kauai Tiki Bar after drink mints/ Kona coffee/ Macadamia Brittle/

Macadamia Nuts covered in Milk Chocolate Donated by: Alison Boyd

Quaint & Picturesque Value: $275.00

Framed image of Fishing Village, Fogo Island, Newfoundland

Donated by: Alison Boyd

Just Breathe! Value: $150.00

8-Week introduction to yoga course Yoga mat

Yoga blanket Waterbottle

Donated by: Queen Street Yoga

Party Patio Value: $90.00

M&M Meat Shops $50 Gift Card BBQ utensils

Napkins Sauces/spices

Donated by: M&M Meat Shops & MNP

Hallowed Halls Value: $160.00

Winners/Home Sense-$100 Gift Card Ladies Large Black Sweatshirt UWaterloo notebook and pen

UWaterloo passport wallet Donated by: Anonymous &

University of Waterloo, Alumni Relations

It’s Not Academic… Value: $60.00

Men's Large Grey Sweatshirt UWaterloo notebook and pen

UWaterloo passport wallet Donated by: University of Waterloo,

Alumni Relations Family Fun Pack! Value: $100.00

4 Passes to THEMUSEUM 1 family pass to bowling at KingPin Bowl Lounge (up to 6 people, single

lane, includes shoes) Donated by: THEMUSEUM

& Bingemans

Precious Moments Value: $250.00

10-image photo sitting session: excludes newborns and weddings

Donated by: Emilly Grayce Photography

Spa Escape Wellness Day Value: $160.00

Spa Escape wellness day nail care kit nail polish

spa care kit Donated by: Evolution concepts

in hair & spa

Movies Galore Value: $60.00

2 Member passes ($3 off price of movie) expires Jan 2015

to Princess Cinema Donated by: Princess Cinema

Dynamic duo, Rebecca Pister and Jen Durst, take mentorship to a whole new level at Working Against Youth Violence Everywhere (WAYVE). Each year, Jen and Rebecca are allies to over 200 youth involved in the In-School teams and approximately 30 Regional Presentation Team members. Thanks to Rebecca and Jen’s efforts, WAYVE reaches over 6,000 youth each year. Rebecca and Jen provide youth volunteers with a unique

engagement opportunity that inspires both partnership and leadership. Under the guidance of Rebecca and Jen the youth are encouraged to choose the direction of each presentation–allowing the message to resonate with their peers. Rebecca and Jen have gone above and beyond by fostering a sense of family with the youth volunteers. The youth are encouraged to share challenges and celebrate each others’ achievements. Not only are Rebecca and Jen inspirational leaders to the youth, but their commitment to the program is helping to change social and cultural attitudes towards bullying, violence, and mental

Rebecca Pister & Jennifer Durst - Adult Ally

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YOUTH INVOLVEMENT AWARDS To recognize students, teachers, schools, and adults who have

made a significant contribution to positive youth engagement.

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Tracey Johnston-Aldworth and Randy Warren have both served as volunteer board members for the Sun Life Financial Waterloo Busker Carnival for 25 years. The carnival has become a staple attraction for the Region attracting over 50,000 spectators and international street performers each year. Tracey and Randy’s ability to organize, influence, and find creative solutions have been critical to the ongoing success of the carnival.

Randy played a major role in securing Sun Life as the title sponsor for the past three years and the next three years. In 2013, Randy successfully secured funds from Waterloo City council to fund a special 25th anniversary activity. Tracey has often taken on the role of organizer for the carnival’s Festival of Fools Gala. Both Tracey and Randy have gone above and beyond with their contributions to make

MTE Consultants Inc. has been championing volunteerism for the last 27 years by supporting various local charities, groups, and recreational teams. MTE’s passion for supporting local initiatives goes beyond just making a one-time donation. MTE strives to create and foster collaborative relationships that provide ongoing opportunities for staff to give back with their time and expertise. In

2013, MTE launched an employee-driven program −Living the Values− which allows staff to recognize colleagues who have incorporated the company’s corporate values into their daily work. Throughout the year, winners are selected and given the opportunity to choose a charity they want MTE to make a donation to. MTE has successfully created a business culture of giving and is truly committed to making a significant difference in their community.

GROUP INVOLVEMENT AWARDS To recognize teams or groups that through their volunteer

efforts, demonstrate a valuable investment in community.

MTE Consultants Inc. - Large Group Engagement

Tracey Johnston-Aldworth and Randy Warren

- Small Group Engagement

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VOLUNTEER IMPACT AWARD To acknowledge an extraordinary contribution out of all the

finalists. This person or group will have created a lasting impression

on our community through their passion, inspiration and commitment.

The members of the May Court Club of Kitchener-Waterloo provide service and support to women and children in need through volunteering and fundraising. The membership is filled with dynamic and inspiring women. With impressive ideas and projects the Club is committed to making Waterloo Region a better place to live. Members have donated over two million dollars to local non-profit organizations. The 2013 Christmas Dreams raffle raised $24,500 to support of initiatives at St. Mary’s Hospital Cardiac Care Unit, Family and Children’s

Services of Waterloo Region, and the Children’s Wish Foundation. Some of the outreach programs the members’ run include the Homes for Special Care and Food Boxes for schools. The May Court Shop in Belmont Village, a major source of revenue, is a fine example of an exceptional team of volunteers sharing their time, energy, and talents.

The May Court Club of Kitchener-Waterloo -

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LEADERSHIP AWARDS To recognize a board member and a volunteer manager who

exemplifies inspirational leadership and initiative.

Rita Ross has dedicated hundreds of hours to helping deliver the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery’s mission: Connecting people and ideas through art. Rita is well-known for her energy, enthusiasm, and willingness to rise to the occasion. Rita began volunteering with the Gallery as a volunteer on the Black & Gold committee, helping to secure sponsorships, solicit auction items and sell tickets. Rita was soon appointed chair of the committee and helped the event grow in stature and results. Rita joined the Board of Directors in May 2009. In June 2013, demonstrating her willingness to accept a leadership challenge, Rita accepted the role of Board president. Rita’s dedication, cheerfulness, and enthusiasm makes her an invaluable asset to the Gallery.

Deborah Young has been involved in volunteer leadership for over 25 years. Deborah is instrumental in leading effective and successful volunteer programs at the Region of Waterloo including a dedicated group of volunteers at both the Waterloo Region Museum and the Doon Heritage Village. Deborah leads and guides the Region's Volunteer Committee through legislation, best practices, position descriptions, recruitment, evaluation and recognition. Deborah’s knowledge

of volunteer administration and Region practices has been invaluable to ensuring streamlined process are used. As one of the instructors in Conestoga College’s Volunteer Management program, Deborah has taught, mentored and supported many volunteer managers in the community. She is also the Certification Committee Chair of the Volunteer Management Professionals of Canada.

Rita Ross - Outstanding Leadership

Deborah Young - Volunteer Manager

Compass Kitchener is a small group of dedicated citizens making a big impact. The committee was established by city council to engage the community in achieving a shared vision for the future. The committee’s work is instrumental in identifying areas of focus and in determining critical community issues. The volunteers on this committee are dedicated and passionate about community. They give countless hours to ensure that community members’ voices are heard. The committee has found many unique ways to ensure community members can share their input on the direction of the municipal government. Compass Kitchener has designed public processes to provide thousands of residents with an opportunity to give their input. The committee also sets performance measures and tracks the city's success. The unique and accessible approach to accountability and engagement has been an invaluable resource. The work the committee has done over the years has impacted all of our community members – helping define priorities and ignite improvements.

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Compass Kitchener - Board or Committee

GROUP INVOLVEMENT AWARDS To recognize teams or groups that through their volunteer

efforts, demonstrate a valuable investment in community.

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Over the last eight years, Doreen Fibke has made an outstanding contribution to Sunnyside Seniors’ Services making her a true shining star. Doreen’s friendly and organized approach goes a long way in making Sunnyside’s two shops a success. Doreen’s contributions and continuous motivation to improve processes and coordinate volunteers is just some of the ways she makes things happen. One of

Doreen’s greatest achievements has been spearheading the annual Auxiliary Garage Sale for the last six years. Doreen has devoted over 2,500 hours to helping countless residents, tenants, and clients. In addition to her work at Sunnyside, Doreen has spent over 20 years volunteering with the Arthritis Society making the lives of so many brighter.

HANDS ON AWARDS To recognize a volunteer who contributes significantly to

improving the quality of life for others through hands-on work.

Ian Lang has been a dynamic volunteer with the John Howard Society of Waterloo-Wellington’s Youth Justice Committee since January 2003. Ian’s wonderful demeanor works well to put people at ease when they are often experiencing stressful situations−allowing individuals to openly communicate and share. One of Ian’s greatest assets is his ability to show compassion for people who are often struggling with complex issues and family circumstances. Under Ian’s guidance, youth are able to see that their actions negatively impact society and they need to be accountable. Ian is an inspirational mentor to new volunteers helping build comradeship between the team of volunteers. Others look up to Ian as he has natural leadership abilities.

Doreen Fibke - Administrative Action

Ian Lang - Caring Action

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Joe Paiva, along with two friends, runs an annual golf tournament with proceeds benefiting the Arthritis Society. With an average annual donation of $12,000 the event proves to be a reoccurring success. Joe’s dedication and commitment to volunteerism and philanthropy has played an instrumental role in helping grow awareness for the Arthritis Society −many event participants

have been moved to become major donors. Joe volunteers with causes that make a difference in the lives of so many in the community. The Canadian Cancer Society, Grand River Hospital Foundation, and the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation have directly felt the effects of Joe’s volunteerism and generosity.

Joe Paiva - Special Event

HANDS ON AWARDS To recognize a volunteer who contributes significantly to

improving the quality of life for others through hands-on work.