Local broadcaster and others recognized for their volunteer service

Volunteer Ottawa’s 14th annual VOscars Volunteer Awards Gala was held Thursday night at the Preston Event Centre.

It honours individuals, organizations and businesses who make a difference in communities through their countless hours of volunteer service.

Sam Laprade, Host of An Hour to Give on Rogers tv and Country 101, was the recipient of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

For over 30 years, Sam has given far more than an hour, volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa, the Children’s Aid Foundation of Ottawa, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Caldwell Family Centre and many other organizations.

Presenting the award was Susan Ingram, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa.

“What I love most about Sam is that it isn’t about recognition or the spotlight; she does it all because she cares. She believes deeply in community and generosity and in the power of kindness,” Ingram said.

In her acceptance speech, Laprade outlined her three key points about philanthropy.

“I want to spread this message as far and wide as I can, philanthropy is not just about financial donations. The trifecta of philanthropy is time, talent and treasure.”

Awards in eight other categories were also presented:

• Mayor’s Award for Volunteer Spirit: James Douglas Anthony & Cynthia Lynn Anthony
• Leadership in Corporate Volunteerism Award: Ciena Ottawa
• Pathways to Possibilities Award: Nathalie Maione
• Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award: Sammita Chowdhury
• Leadership in Skilled Volunteering Award: Dan Carbonel  
• Outstanding Volunteer Program Award: Christie Lake Kids
• Outstanding Older Adult Volunteer Award:  Denise Amyot

Making its debut was the Festival Sector Award, where Tara Shannon, Executive Director of the Ottawa Festival Network, presented the inaugural award to HOPE Volleyball SummerFest.

Volunteer Ottawa is a registered charity that connects those looking to volunteer in the community, with non-profit organizations who rely on the services of volunteers.

For more information or to nominate for next year’s event visit: www.volunteerottawa.ca.