Celebrating Our 2024 Ontario Volunteer Service Award Winners

Kensington volunteers bring warmth, compassion, and a personal touch that makes a world of difference in our community. They lend a helping hand, make a comforting meal, share laughter and comfort those who needed it most. We are deeply grateful to the thousands of volunteers who have supported our community through the years.

In April, six Kensington Health volunteers received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award, which recognizes the time they’ve spent providing committed and dedicated service to an organization. They are examples of how volunteering supports the community, improves the lives of the people we serve, and benefits volunteers themselves.

We recently spoke with two of the award recipients, Lama and Simon.

Lama has been a Kitchen/Nutrition volunteer at Kensington’s hospice for five years. Her role involves collaboration with the team to plan meals, prepare ingredients, and cook for residents. When brainstorming meals for the menu, each team member is encouraged to share their ideas. Lama was proud to introduce a recipe for Lebanese lentil soup – it was a memorable addition that added a homey flavour to the residents' experience.

"Volunteering in the hospice has truly become an integral part of my life,” she says. “It's amazing to see how making simple meals can bring so much comfort and joy to someone.”

Elsewhere at Kensington, Simon, a Friendly Visitor at our long-term care home, began his volunteer journey in 2015. He was inspired to give back to the community that cared for his Nonna, or grandmother, who lived at the Gardens. His role has expanded over the years to supporting residents through meal assistance and helping with daily activities – he does everything from providing companionship on errands to joining in on a round of bingo.

Simon values the special relationships he has with residents.

"I've been visiting a specific resident for a while now,” he says. “Sometimes, I'll assist him by escorting him to the bank, and other times we just sit and talk about the new tidbits of our lives."

In a bustling world with competing priorities, Lama says, “it's important to strive for consistency over perfection." She recognizes that even small acts of kindness over time can have a significant impact.

Lili and Simon were proud to earn provincial recognition for reaching milestone years of volunteering. Aerissa, Coordinator, Volunteer Services, says “the team was happy to nominate individuals like Lama and Simon, who are outstanding at the volunteer work they do and for the generosity they show.”

"It was quite the experience attending the ceremony. Beyond it being a great addition to my resume, seeing the group of volunteers all together really put the work we do into perspective. I think it was a special moment for all of us, and I'm honoured to be a recipient," says Simon. 

Volunteering at Kensington Health is more than just a way to give back – it's a chance to be part of a supportive community that values each individual’s contributions. For those hesitant about volunteering, Lama and Simon offer encouraging words. "Any action can create a difference. Even simple contributions can result in meaningful change when combined with others' efforts," Lama says.

Simon echoes this sentiment. “Kensington is a great organization for volunteers, as they promote a supportive environment for both residents and volunteers,” he says. “The types of opportunities and responsibilities Kensington entrusts to their volunteers are like no other organization."

If you’re interested in exploring the volunteer opportunities at Kensington Health for yourself, please click here to learn more.