CHA & Volunteer Recognition Event Highlights Local Leadership

We are proud to celebrate the incredible contributions of our Volunteers and Community Health Ambassadors (CHAs) whose dedication continues to strengthen and uplift our communities.

Group picture of women volunteers and community health ambassadors

CHA & VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION EVENT

On Sunday, March 22, we hosted our Community Health Ambassador (CHA) & Volunteer Recognition Event, bringing together participants from three population health team programs: Food Security Program Volunteers, Diabetes Prevention Ambassadors, and Ontario Structured Psychotherapy (OSP) Outreach Volunteers.

The event was a vibrant and uplifting celebration of community leadership and service. Attendees enjoyed a potluck generously prepared and shared by volunteers and CHAs, featuring cultural foods that reflected the diverse traditions and communities they represent. The day also included a rejuvenating self-care art session and a lively game of Bingo.

More importantly, the event created space to recognize the significant contributions of volunteers and CHAs, who were honoured for their commitment and hard work! The success of the recognition event was made possible by the dedication of the planning committee: Yodit, Amina, Yaaba, Hafsa, Anab and our wonderful event volunteers, whose efforts ensured a memorable experience for everyone involved

MAKING AN IMPACT ACROSS PROGRAMS

Across programs, Volunteers and CHAs continue to play a critical role in strengthening community wellbeing:

Food Bank Volunteers provide consistent hands-on support to weekly operations. Their contributions include assisting clients, supporting the pick-up of food on delivery days, setting up a market-style food bank, and ensuring smooth food distribution days.

Diabetes Prevention Community Health Ambassadors (CHAs) lead workshops within the community, offering low-barrier, culturally relevant education on diabetes prevention strategies. Their work helps make health information more accessible and tailored to diverse populations.

OSP Outreach Volunteers engage communities in important conversations around mental health, particularly in spaces where stigma may exist. Through creative “Art & Chat” sessions and participation in community events, they use art as a powerful tool to foster dialogue and connection.

person holding a collage portrait in front of thieir face

ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

A defining strength of these programs is that our Volunteers and Community Health Ambassadors come from the communities we serve. Their lived experience and cultural understanding make them highly representative of the populations they support. This not only helps address language barriers, but also fosters trust, relatability and meaningful connections – ensuring that services and information are delivered in ways that truly resonate.

HONOURING OUR VOLUNTEERS

During Volunteer Appreciation Month, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated volunteers, both long-standing members and those new to our programs, who continue to make a profound difference. Whether bringing years of experience or fresh perspectives, each volunteer plays an essential role in advancing our mission. Their commitment, compassion, and generosity of time are what make these programs possible and effective.

This celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the collective impact of community-driven initiatives and the vital role volunteers and ambassadors play in advancing health, wellbeing and connection throughout the year.