CHATS’ Chief Executive Officer, Christina Bisanz, was invited to be keynote speaker at the Ontario Volunteer Service Award Ceremonies on July 10^th in Markham and July 11^th in Richmond Hill. 

The Ontario Volunteer Service Award recognizes volunteers for providing committed and dedicated service to an organization. Adults are recognized by the length of time they have volunteered with one organization, ranging from five to sixty-five years of continuous service and youth (twenty-four years old and under) are recognized for two or more years of continuous service. 

CEO Christina Bisanz with Hon. Raymond Sung Joon Cho, Minister of Seniors and Accessibility & MPP for Richmond Hill Daisy Wai, and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister for Seniors and Accessibility 

During her presentation, Christina emphasized the significance of volunteers enriching our communities, our lives, and our country. She remarked, “While the roles volunteers take on may vary greatly, you all share a common goal: working towards a healthier future by making a meaningful impact on people’s lives today.” 

At CHATS, we see the impact every day. Our volunteers make a difference by making Telephone Reassurance calls to older adults who eagerly await a friendly voice, driving them to medical appointments and errands, socializing at our adult day programs and wellness programs, and delivering Meals on Wheels to ensure they have nutritious meals. 

CHATS was honoured to have four volunteers receive an award for their contribution and dedication to CHATS.  

Sedorney Morris was recognized for her five years of service as a telephone reassurance volunteer. She devotes her time to making weekly phone calls to older adults, providing them with companionship and a friendly voice.  

Vita Catalano received recognition for her remarkable ten years of service. Vita contributes to social and wellness programs by assisting the Outreach Coordinator with setup, supporting program activities, and making friendly calls to participants, enhancing their overall experience. 

• Fatemeh Dadgar Delshad was honoured for her remarkable fifteen years of service as a dedicated volunteer at the Iranian Diversity Program where she supported all aspects of the program – from set-up to socializing with program participants to serving refreshments. She was always ready to help in any way she could. Following the announcement of the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards, Fatemeh Dadgar Delshad passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Her family proudly accepted the award on her behalf. 

• Stephen Severin was recognized for an impressive twenty years of service as a telephone reassurance volunteer. Each week, Stephen demonstrates compassion and empathy by making regular phone calls to provide support and companionship to older adults in need. His longstanding dedication has undoubtedly made a profound impact on the lives of those he assists.