Civic Recognition

Formed in 2023 to fight food insecurity, Burlington Helping Burlington began as a food drive and quickly grew into a powerful movement—raising 15,000 lbs of food and over $20,000 in just three months. Now a registered charitable foundation, they connect businesses, residents, and organizations to support local not-for-profits. Through fundraising events, donation drives, and volunteer mobilization, Burlington Helping Burlington continues to make a lasting, positive impact in the community.

Jenna is a passionate advocate for animal welfare. As the Executive Director of Save Our Scruff – Rehome & Rescue, Jenna has helped to build a dog rescue organization that has facilitated over 3,000 dog adoptions across Ontario, Canada and beyond. Jenna leads a team of 100 staff and over 300 volunteers, coordinating programs focused on rescue, rehoming, education, training, and advocacy. Her leadership not only saves dogs but also raises awareness about responsible pet ownership and inspires others to support animal welfare initiatives.

Michelle has spent over 30 years advocating for equality in Canada. In 1992, she launched a landmark legal challenge that ended the Canadian Armed Forces’ ban on 2SLGBTQI service members. Since then, she has remained a dedicated human rights advocate, testifying before Parliament and serving as Chair for organizations like the Foundation for Equal Families and Toronto’s 519 Community Centre. In 2023, she was appointed the first Honorary Colonel for Professional Conduct and Culture by the Minister of National Defence.

Sonia Robinson is a passionate advocate of change to protect women and children. Her efforts were instrumental in the passage of Keira’s Law – both federally through Bill C-233 and provincially through Bill 102. This legislation, named after Keira Kagan, mandates that judges and justices of the peace receive training on intimate partner and gender-based violence. Recently, Sonia was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of her work.

WhiteEagle is a respected urban Indigenous Elder and a powerful advocate for reconciliation. A residential school Survivor, she stepped forward as a voice of truth, healing, and education following the discovery of 215 children’s graves in Kamloops, B.C. Each month, WhiteEagle leads Full Moon Ceremonies at Burlington Beach, creating inclusive spaces for learning and community-building through Indigenous teachings. She also contributes to countless civic events with land acknowledgments, opening prayers, and blessings— offering her guidance to City Council, the Burlington Performing Arts Centre, Joseph Brant Hospital, Burlington Food Bank, and many more.

As a resident of Burlington for 58 years, Grace Anne is a lifelong volunteer whose unwavering dedication to community service spans over five decades. She began volunteering as a teenager with programs supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities—an experience that inspired her to become a Developmental Service Worker. Grace Anne supports numerous community initiatives, including more than 16 years with the Sound of Music Festival, where she serves as Parade Team Co-Chair, and the Partnering Aldershot drive-through drop-off collection.

As the Student Nutrition Program Leader at Clarksdale Public School for over five years, Andrea ensures every student starts their day with a nourishing breakfast. Beyond providing a meal, Andrea has built a community that promotes wellness, learning and kindness. She demonstrates every contribution, no matter how small, has value. Her efforts have made a lasting impact on the school community and Burlington.

Each summer, Burlington Able Sail provides sailing opportunities and instruction for individuals with a physical or cognitive disability. With a dedicated team and specialized boats, Able Sail has been enhancing the quality of life for Burlington residents for over 20 years by making sailing accessible to all. The program is a place where participants experience the freedom of being out on the water and build valuable friendships.

Started by university students Iman Nemar and Olivia Netto, the Pink Project provides free feminine hygiene products in public washrooms throughout Halton Region. The Pink Project believes period products should be available to all those who need them, and conversation surrounding menstruation should never be an embarrassment nor something we hide. Their work is helping to shed light on issues that are often overlooked when it comes to periods and menstrual health, not just in Burlington but around the world.

Janet has made feeding breakfast to grade school children her mission. For the last 10 years, Janet has provided a breakfast program at King Road School every Thursday morning, serving approximately 80 students.