On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, volunteers from across our community gathered at Fort William Historical Park for the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards, an annual celebration recognizing the outstanding contributions and commitment of volunteers throughout Ontario.
The evening brought together volunteers representing a wide variety of organizations and sectors, all united by a shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the generosity, compassion, and community spirit that volunteers bring to our city each and every day.
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre was proud to recognize nine exceptional volunteers who have reached significant service milestones with our organization. Their dedication has enriched the experiences of countless patients, families, visitors, and staff, and we are deeply grateful for the time, kindness, and expertise they continue to share.
This year’s recipients included:
- Marilyn Chisholm – 40 Years of Service
- Barb Rickards – 35 Years of Service
- Dorothy Martel – 35 Years of Service
- Sheila Meijer – 30 Years of Service
- Christine Hildebrand – 10 Years of Service
- Merrill Young and her therapy dog, Scarlett – 10 Years of Service
We were also proud to celebrate three outstanding youth volunteers who were recognized for their commitment to serving our Hospital and community:
- Dougie Newhouse
- Harrison Nelson
- Edelweiss Price
Whether they have volunteered for 10 years or an incredible 40 years, each recipient has made a lasting impact through their dedication, compassion, and willingness to serve others. Their contributions help create a welcoming, supportive environment for everyone who comes through our doors.Congratulations to all of our Ontario Volunteer Service Award recipients, and thank you for the remarkable difference you make every day. We are honoured to celebrate your service and grateful to have you as part of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre family.