Richmond Hill pays tribute to community volunteers with virtual ceremony

Thestar.com
May 3, 2021

Scores of selfless individuals and groups were recognized at Richmond Hill’s 56th virtual Volunteer Achievement Awards on April 20. They volunteered their time to give back to their community and helped those in need.

The award ceremony occurs biennially during National Volunteer Week. This year, the ceremony was held online due to the pandemic.

New to this year’s awards was a Community Recognition Certificate that recognized individuals and organizations that have gone above and beyond during COVID-19 to help make a meaningful difference to their communities.

“Volunteers are an essential part of our community,” Richmond Hill Acting Mayor Joe DiPaola said at the ceremony. “They give their time and expertise to help make the city a better place and I thank them for their service, particularly during these very challenging times. ”

Award recipients shared their joy, love and fulfilment in volunteering.

The Youth Volunteer Award went to Suraj Bansal. Since 2016, Suraj has been an exemplary volunteer with various Richmond Hill organizations, demonstrating humility, humour, integrity and passion in every role.

Suraj Bansal

Samir Dossal won the Naim Malik Volunteer Achievement Award for the Promotion of Intercultural Friendships. Samir came to Canada in 2000 and settled in Richmond Hill, with the intent of becoming an exemplary citizen. He has achieved just that through his selfless dedication to serving the community.

Samir Dossal

Kathleen Wong took home the Citizen of the Year Award. In her 13 years of service, Wong has impacted many lives, young and old, and pursued the betterment of the community in several ways.

Kathleen Wong

Neighbours for the Planet (NFTP) swept up the award for Community Organization of the Year. Based in Richmond Hill, the not-for-profit group was formed in 2019 to tackle global warming and climate change, in order to create a better future for our planet and children.

Carrie Tai

“None of our successful initiatives could have been done without the help and collaboration of the other groups in Richmond Hill and beyond,” said NFTP co-founder Carrie Tai.

Here is the full 2021 Volunteer Achievement Awards Recipients List.