Ontario Honours 2025 June Callwood Award Recipients for Volunteerism
Fifteen individuals and four organizations recognized for exceptional volunteer efforts in areas such as youth advocacy, health care, the arts, and community service across Ontario.
TORONTO, ON — The Ontario government is celebrating 15 individuals and four organizations as this year’s recipients of the 2025 June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism, honouring their lasting impact on communities across the province.
The award, one of Ontario’s highest honours for volunteer service, recognizes exceptional contributions in areas such as youth advocacy, health care, mental health, the arts, environmental sustainability, and support for vulnerable populations.
“These 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 after the late author, journalist, and social activist June Callwood, the award honours up to 25 individuals, organizations, and volunteer administrators each year. The 2025 recipients will be formally recognized in local ceremonies where they will receive a commemorative statue and a certificate signed by Premier Doug Ford and Minister McGregor.
Callwood, a member of both the Order of Ontario and the Order of Canada, helped launch more than 50 Canadian social service organizations during her lifetime. The award that bears her name continues to reflect her legacy by spotlighting Ontarians who exemplify civic leadership and community compassion.
Since its inception in 2002, the June Callwood Award has been presented to 414 individuals and organizations across the province. The Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism encourages nominations from all Ontarians, with submissions open until December 5 each year.
In 2024, Ontario held more than 50 recognition ceremonies celebrating the achievements of over 7,200 volunteers provincewide.
How to Nominate:
To learn more about eligibility and nomination guidelines for the June Callwood Award, or to nominate a deserving volunteer or organization in your community, visit Ontario.ca.
Follow GTA Today on social media for more local news and updates. #GTAToday
