Trillium honours outstanding volunteers and groups

Six remarkable Ontario not-for-profit organizations were honoured for the difference they have made in their communities at the Ontario Trillium Foundation's 25th Anniversary celebration in Sharon, on Oct. 18.

"The Great Grants Awards recognize the vision, commitment and energy of Ontario's volunteers and community organizations," said Loreta Pavese, Grant Review Team Chair for Simcoe-York. "This is our 25th year of strengthening communities and we're celebrating by holding 16 award events across the province."

The Foundation presents the Great Grants Awards every two years. The award winners were selected by volunteers who serve on the local Grant Review Team. In Simcoe- York, six organizations were chosen for their outstanding achievements in the Arts and Culture, Sports and Recreation, Environment and Human and Social Services sectors. Arts and Culture: Collingwood Music Festival Association launched a noteworthy sales and marketing campaign. Ticket sales tripled and the volunteer base grew from 500 to 776 people. The festival has helped boost summertime cultural tourism to the region.

Sports and Recreation: The Georgian Bay Rowing Club provides recreational rowing for both serious competitors and those new to the sport in the Midland area. Its "Learn to Row" program is offered to the community and as part of local high school physical education. Environment: Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust. With a volunteer base of 50 and a passion for nature preservation, the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust is making headway saving headwaters. As of 2006, the Trust has protected 2,858 acres of land.

Human and Social Services: Between Friends, Aboriginal Clothing and Book Drive. Kids Come First Child Care Centre of Vaughan expanded its annual Between Friends, Aboriginal Clothing and Book Drive with the support of over 200 volunteers.

Grant Review Team Chair's Award winner for exemplifying the spirit of volunteerism was Girls on the Run Simcoe County, for helping girls in grades three to eight to be their best through an innovative running program.