Awards
June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award Recipients
The June Callwood Award was established in 1994 by the Hospice Association of Ontario, now Hospice Palliative Care Ontario, to acknowledge and thank outstanding hospice volunteers throughout Ontario. The award was named in honour of the late June Callwood, the Award Patron, and long time advocate of hospice, community activist, author and recipient of the Order of Canada. June was a recipient of this award in 1995 and since then, 520 hospice volunteers have been inducted into the Circle of Outstanding Volunteers. Volunteers are special people – a view strongly held by Ms. Callwood and expressed by her on many occasions, during interviews on TV and radio, remarks at annual conferences, and through her writing. Her book, Twelve Weeks in Spring, captured the spirit of hospice and emphasized the importance of the many and varied contributions of a team of volunteers. In all her years as a journalist, author, broadcaster and humanitarian, June Callwood’s name became synonymous with integrity, talent and passion for social justice. She has touched the lives of generations of Canadians by giving that passion expression through her words and through her work in the service of those in need.
2023
Mary Lovell
Join us in celebrating the remarkable contributions of Hospice Georgina volunteer, Mary Lovell, as she joins the esteemed June Callwood Award Circle of Outstanding Volunteers!
For years, Mary has selflessly dedicated her time and energy to supporting our community through her involvement with Hospice Georgina. She has been a pillar of strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
Mary's invaluable presence has touched the lives of many. She has skillfully facilitated our women's cancer group, offering solace and understanding to those navigating the challenging journey of cancer. Additionally, Mary has provided much-needed grief support to children, helping them find healing and hope during their darkest moments.
As a visiting home volunteer, Mary has been a comforting presence for clients with life-limiting illnesses. Her empathy and kindness shine through in every interaction, providing comfort and companionship to those in need. Mary fearlessly takes on any challenge that comes her way, going above and beyond to make a positive impact.
Hospice Georgina is profoundly grateful to have Mary as part of our volunteer family. Her unwavering dedication and compassionate spirit have been instrumental in our mission to provide care and support to individuals and families facing end-of-life challenges.
Let's come together to congratulate Mary Lovell on this well-deserved recognition. If you see her, be sure to extend your heartfelt congratulations.
2022
Lynda Howe
This year’s June Callwood nominee is Lynda Howe. Lynda is a gifted gardener and longtime Hospice Georgina volunteer, Lynda has contributed many years as a facilitator for the Day Hospice group and helping /organizing events. Lynda is visiting volunteer in clients in their homes. Thank you Lynda for being an outstanding volunteer, at Hospice Georgina.
2021
Clifford Leonard
Clifford Leonard volunteers because he says he has “had a great life and it’s a way for me to give back to the community.” When told about his nomination on behalf of Hospice—he thought there must be someone more deserving. Cliff goes above and beyond for Hospice Georgina and we are very proud to have you represent Hospice Georgina.
2020
Carrie Ann
Carrie Ann’s dedication and generous spirit are qualities that make her a wonderful volunteer. Her very practical side helps her to see what she can do in the moment to make a difference in someone’s life.Carrie Ann’s energy is infectious. She is positive, supportive and always helps others to see the best in every situation. She believes in Hospice and the work we accomplish by working together. Her caring attitude has touched the hearts of many, no task too big or too small.
2019
Lena Lychak
Among all Hospices are volunteers we consider gems. At HG, there is a sparkling diamond among our many gems – and that is Lena. As beautiful inside as she is out, this wonderfully compassionate woman has opened her arms wide. We know how blessed we are to have Lena. June Callwood would have loved her!!
Award presented at 2019 HPCO Conference
2018
Mary Catherine Macaluso
Mary Catherine is best characterized as a volunteer who leads from the front, and leads by example. Mary Catherine has taken on just about every volunteer roll there is during her 11+ years of service. She served on the Board, in fundraising and outreach, with grief and bereavement clients, on countless committees and in innumerable meetings. Her determination has kept Hospice Georgina on track. Her crowning glory has been the successful management of the capital project that took Hospice Georgina to its new home at the Link, a community hub, where we can better service the Georgina community. Thank you!
Award presented a HPCO Conference in April 2018.
2017
Esther Giddings
An 11-year veteran with Hospice Georgina, Esther Giddings has volunteered in almost every capacity…fundraising, events, and volunteer visiting. Esther is one of our most stalwart supporters. During her volunteer career, Esther has performed over 1000 hours of client service, and has been a top Hike for Hospice fundraiser for the past several years. Despite having a busy working career, Esther always makes time for Hospice Georgina. Her efforts include visiting her clients, giving caregivers respite time, getting sponsors for her many successful Hike for Hospice teams, participating in other fundraisers, and attending many of our events. Esther is always there!
Award presented at 2017 HPCO Conference
2016
Margaret Van Den Hazel
Margaret has been with Hospice Georgina through thick and thin and has become a shining beacon for the next generation of hospice volunteers.
Here's her blurb from the conference program: Margaret Van Den Hazel has been a Hospice Georgina volunteer for 16 years. In that time, Margaret supported many clients and logged hundreds of hours of service. She is actively engaged and can be relied upon to bring her smile and untiring effort to every event, fundraiser, and meeting. Margaret has taken the lessons she learned in her many years and refocused them by becoming a mentor to new incoming volunteers. She is an instrumental part of our volunteer program, taking on tasks that enhance our client service capacity. Margaret’s humility, compassion, and commitment are an example for everyone.
Award presented at the 2016 HPCO Conference
Hospice Georgina Volunteer of the Year Recipients
Hospice Georgina could not operate without the dedicated people who volunteer their time, talent and heart. Hospice volunteers are helping people live life to its fullest. Hospice volunteers provide companionship to people living with a serious illness and help their family caregivers in a variety of ways. Hospices also rely on volunteers to help with office work, fund raising, community outreach and other operational areas.
2023
Brenda Pembleton
2022
Judi Carr-Kartash
2021
Lynsey Mckechnie
2020
Ginnette Veugelers
2019
Lynda Howe
2018
Delaine Bond
2017
Lena Lychak
2015
June Peach
Milestone Awards of Service 2023
20 YEARS
Rick Winson
15 Years
Gayle Clarke
Mary Margaret Thorburn
10 YearS
Lynda Howe
Catherine Trollope
5 YearS
Irvin Erb
Pam Arnold