Ontario Celebrates Exceptional Volunteers

April 30, 2025

2025 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards being presented across the province

April 30, 2025

Citizenship and Multiculturalism

Table of Contents

  1. Content
  2. Quick Facts
  3. Additional Resources

TORONTO — The Ontario government is honouring more than 5,380 community leaders through the 2025 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards. This annual award celebrates both adult and youth volunteers for their outstanding contributions and ongoing service to organizations such as non-profits, schools, community centres, hospitals, libraries and community associations.

“The Ontario Volunteer Service Awards are all about celebrating the incredible people who give their time to make our communities stronger,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “Volunteers are the heart of Ontario, and we’re truly grateful for everything they do to support and uplift those around them.”

Individuals nominated by an organization will be honoured at one of the 40 local award ceremonies across the province between Spring and Fall 2025. They will receive a personalized certificate and a distinctive lapel pin, each symbolizing different ranges of dedicated service. These awards are designed to acknowledge adult volunteers for their continuous service in five-year increments, ranging from five to 65+ years, and youth volunteers for their continuous service of two or more years.

The 2025 award recipients dedicate their time to supporting a diverse array of organizations and causes, including assisting vulnerable individuals, hospitals, museums, libraries, as well as providing education on horticulture and conservation. These volunteers also serve as board members, engage in fundraising efforts, and contribute to the enhancement of the arts, citizenship, culture, heritage, environment, and recreation sectors.

For more information about the program or to submit a nomination for next year, visit the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards webpage.

Quick Facts

  • Since 1986, more than 255,500 volunteers have been recognized through the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards.
  • This year, across 1,132 organizations, 759 youth and 4,623 adults will be recognized for their volunteer service.
  • The Ontario Volunteer Service Award nomination deadline is November 15 annually. Eligibility details are available online.
  • The Ontario Volunteer Service Award is the province’s largest annual volunteer recognition program.
  • The Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism fosters an equitable Ontario and a sense of belonging by promoting citizen engagement and unity. In 2024, over 50 recognition program ceremonies celebrated the achievements of more than 7,200 recipients who make the province a better place to live.

Additional Resources