Volunteering can be seen as shining a light for others, illuminating their path and creating positive change. "The more light you allow within you, the brighter the world you live in will be," emphasizes personal growth through service. "As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way," speaks to the direct impact of individual actions. Furthermore, "A candle loses nothing of its light when lighting another," illustrates that helping others doesn't diminish your own capabilities.
2025: Andre Haman
Andre has a kindness and empathy that shines through. His kindness, dedication and calm demeanor makes him a very popular companion sailor and one of our rocks!
Andre inspires, he is always there to help, and when needed can show up on a dime!
He has been here since the beginning of AST fulfilling so many tasks and helping.
#AbleSailToronto #ablesail #adaptivesailing #adaptivesports #sportforall #DiscoverSailing #givingback #SailingforAll #givingback #givingbacktothecommunity
A Volunteer of the Year is someone whose service is both inspiring and reliable, making a significant positive impact on their community. They are dedicated, passionate, and often demonstrate leadership, initiative, and a commitment to selfless service. Their actions uplift others and contribute to a stronger, more vibrant community.
2025: Jim Taylor
Jim came to us at the end of last season and volunteered for winter tasks. He knew how much goes on behind the scenes and was ready to help. He built the new transfer bench. He worked with me on the electrical setup for the electronics, transfer lifts and radios in the office. Wherever he was needed for an external project he was there.
Jim with his calm and dedicated approach, lives to our vision he has touched and enriched the lives of others and that smile! He is also a very popular companion sailor.
Previous Recipients
2024 - David Hurlbut
2023 - Janet Quinlan
#AbleSailToronto #ablesail #adaptivesailing #adaptivesports #sportforall #DiscoverSailing #givingback #SailingforAll #givingback #givingbacktothecommunity
The Linda Clarke award is given to the Able Sail Toronto member that is inspirational, best demonstrates the spirit of volunteerism and epitomizes the values of AST.
2025: Oda Al Anizi
Oda’s personal values shine bright - fostering equality and diversity and contributing to his community.
He joined us late 2024, and has represented Able Sail Toronto with a clarity, calmness, ethics and professionalism.
He has represented Able Sail Toronto with media and our donors. Thank you Oda!
Past Recipients
2024 - Tracy Schmitt
2023 - Nick Wang
2020 - Robert Muzzy
2019 - Linda Clarke
#AbleSailToronto #ablesail #adaptivesailing #adaptivesports #sportforall #DiscoverSailing #givingback #SailingforAll #givingback #givingbacktothecommunity
On April 30, 2024 Able Sail Toronto founders Jacqueline Czernecki and Karen-Ann Xavier received Community Leadership Awards from Member of parliament for the Federal Electoral District of Spadina-Fort York, Kevin Vuong.
The awards states:
In recognition of your outstanding dedication, unwavering commitment to the community, and exemplary leadership. Your tireless efforts are an inspiration to others and have contributed to the betterment of our city and country. Your acts of service have made a profound impact on the lives of those around you. Jacqueline said: “This award is really for everyone who helped to make Able Sail Toronto possible.”
Coronation Medal, awarded by the Government of Canada and the Office of the
Governor General, presented by MP Kevin Vuong at the Royal Canadian Military
Institute.
“Recipients made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region or community of Canada, or have made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.”
Being selected for this prestigious recognition is both a privilege and a reminder of the incredible work that so many of us are committed to in our communities.
It was a great privilege and inspiring to be surrounded by so many other recipients who are making tremendous contributions to their community and country.
This recognition is not just about me, but about the countless individuals and
organizations who have joined together to support those who need it most. It is a reminder that every step we take, no matter how small, brings us closer to creating a world where inclusive living is the norm.
Thank you to all who have supported me along the way. I am truly grateful for this honour.
-- Karen-Ann Xavier
>> More about the award <<
Government of Canada:
https://lnkd.in/geqiPbrt
medals/king-charles-iii-coronation-medal