Burlington’s Best: local volunteers recognized at yearly Volunteer Appreciation Awards

Burlington MP Karina Gould hosted her annual Volunteer Appreciation Awards last night (April 24) at the Art Gallery of Burlington.

Featuring a performance by Canadian steelpan artist Luckystickz and snacks provided by local bakeries Nothing Bundt Cakes and The Brick Oven Bakery, the event was meant to recognize people in the community who went above and beyond in volunteering.

“Volunteers do this because they care about our community,” Gould said. “They care about creating a better future, they care about doing what’s right and supporting those who may have greater needs by contributing to the arts and culture of our community."

Burlington mayor Marianne Meed Ward was present, though Prime Minister Justin Trudeau couldn’t attend despite his appearance in Burlington earlier that day. Trudeau met with student volunteers from Bruce T. Lindley public school that morning and spoke on the importance of taking care of one another and serving the community.

Over 50 awards were given out on the night to volunteers nominated by the organizations they work with for a variety of achievements, from organizing local youth sports teams to identifying litter hotspots to keep Burlington clean.

Gould stressed the importance of the community's efforts to make the city the best it can possibly be.

“You make Burlington the vibrant, successful, welcoming, inclusive community that it is,” Gould said to the volunteers. “We wouldn't have this community the way that it is without each and every one of you, and I can't tell you how much pride that gives me. It shows in the diversity of organizations that we have here tonight just how rich and vibrant Burlington truly is, and it's because of each and every one of you.”

Around 100 people attended the event in the art gallery’s Shoreline and Rotary Room to celebrate the volunteers who make Burlington one of the most livable places in Canada.