10 hours ago
4 local women win prestigious provincial award for volunteering
Four local women have been awarded the 2025 June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism (JCOAAV).
The annual provincial honour is awarded to people who have dedicated their time to community causes, including youth advocacy, health care and mental health, the arts, environmental sustainability, and work with vulnerable populations.
'Volunteers are essential to protecting Ontario and building stronger communities,' said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. 'This year's recipients have gone above and beyond, and we are deeply grateful for their service to make Ontario a better place to live, work, and raise a family.'
Named in honour of the late author, social activist, and journalist June Callwood, this award recognizes up to 25 individual volunteers, volunteer organizations and volunteer administrators for their outstanding leadership, innovation and contributions.
Outstanding Volunteer Category – Individual
Kathleen Doherty, Barrie
A retired Staff Sergeant with the Ontario Provincial Police, Kathleen Doherty has devoted her post-retirement years to volunteerism. From Hospice Simcoe to international disaster relief with Global Medic and Team Rubicon Canada, her leadership in crisis response, community recovery, and health advocacy has brought hope and stability to countless individuals—locally, nationally, and around the world.
Ann-Marie MacDairmid, Thornbury
Ann-Marie, a resident of Thornbury, Ontario, has led the Shoreline Chorus in Owen Sound for 25 years. She founded the choir in 1999 and has managed it entirely as a volunteer. Her leadership has created meaningful opportunities for community engagement through concerts supporting local food banks, therapeutic riding programs, and church outreach initiatives.
Beulah Osei, Newmarket
Since 1996, Beulah Osei has volunteered with York Region Children's Aid Society, providing safe, compassionate transportation for children and youth across the region. More than a driver, she offers stability and care, helping young people stay connected to family, school, and community. Her dedication has touched countless lives and exemplifies the power of consistent, heartfelt service.
Excellence in Volunteer Management - Individual
Jane Weiland, Huntsville
For over a decade, Jane Weiland was the heart of Hospice Huntsville, leading both the Visiting Volunteer and Grief and Bereavement programs. She introduced vital Complementary Therapies and built partnerships with hospitals and care homes to ensure no one faced the end of life alone. Her leadership, compassion, and innovation profoundly shaped hospice care in her community.
All 2025 award recipients have shown commitment to positive change and protecting communities across Ontario. During local ceremonies, recipients will receive an award statue and a certificate signed by the Premier of Ontario and the Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism.
Quick Facts
Anyone can submit a nomination for the JCOAAV. Since 2002, 414 individuals and groups have received the JCOAAV.
Applications for the JCOAAV close on December 5 each year.
The late June Callwood was a distinguished Canadian journalist, author, social activist, and an appointee to the Order of Ontario and the Order of Canada. Throughout her life, she established and co-established over fifty Canadian social action organizations.
The Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism fosters an equitable Ontario and a sense of belonging by promoting citizen engagement and unity. In 2024, over 50 recognition ceremonies celebrated the achievements of more than 7,200 recipients who make the province a better place to live.
