Caring Canadian Award Ceremony

Created in 1995, the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award recognizes living Canadians and permanent residents who have made a significant, sustained, unpaid contribution to their community, in Canada or abroad. Often working behind the scenes, these individuals volunteer their time and efforts to help their fellow citizens. The award also brings to light the example set by volunteers, whose compassion and engagement are a part of our Canadian character.

Katharine Rylander (Saint-Lambert, Quebec) was recognized for her contributions to the community through fundraising activities and local food bank programs, as well as for her volunteerism with the Montreal General Hospital, the Saint-Lambert Council for Seniors and Meals on Wheels.

Christopher James Margerum (Ottawa, Ontario) was recognized for his contributions as a coach of youth hockey and football teams, as well as for his involvement with veterans through the Royal Canadian Legion and the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre.

Mary Joyce Guilbeault (Ottawa, Ontario) was recognized for her contributions to the well-being of children and seniors in the Bells Corners area of Ottawa. As a classroom volunteer at Bells Corners Public School and as an activities organizer at Stillwater Creek Retirement Community, she brings children and elders together to share in each other’s company.

Willie Glaser (Saint-Laurent, Quebec) was recognized for his contributions as a Holocaust educator. At 92, he continues to speak publicly about his experiences, be it at elementary schools or military academies.

Marie-Pierre Dufort (Montréal, Quebec) was recognized for her contributions to establishing Bénévoles d’affaires, which allows business people to help non-profit organizations by volunteering services in their areas of expertise. In addition, for her commitment to her community, notably as an administrator for the bilingual daycare and nursery in Lachenaie, and as a member of the organizing committee for Centraide Lanaudière’s Souper de la Relève.

Ugo Dionne (Montréal, Quebec) was recognized for his contributions to establishing Bénévoles d’affaires, which allows business people to help non-profit organizations by volunteering services in their areas of expertise, and for creating the karting activity for Leucan, which raises funds to help fight pediatric cancer.

Barbara Champagne (Cornwall, Ontario) was recognized for her dedicated efforts in support of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind and for helping others in her community.

Carol Burrows (Ottawa, Ontario) was recognized for her contributions to Cornerstone Housing for Women, which provides emergency shelter and safe, affordable housing for women at risk of homelessness; and to Carefor Health & Community Services, which provides home and respite care, among other services, to help keep families at home and together longer.

During a special outdoor ceremony on the grounds of Rideau Hall, His Excellency presented the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award to 8 volunteers who have contributed to making local communities smarter and more caring.

Mr. Don Taylor also spoke during this ceremony. The travelling exhibit, which the recipients and their families visited following the ceremony, is made possible through the generosity of The Taylor Family Foundation as a tribute to the women, men and youth of Canada whose achievements, courage and dedication to service exemplify the heart and soul of our nation.