We’re pleased to launch the Community Builders column on Apartment 613 to share the stories of every Community Builder recognized by United Way Ottawa.
In this column, you’ll see the stories of every day Ottawans who take the time to extend a helping hand, break down stereotypes and barriers, and those who push for a better city by showing us the true meaning of compassion for others.
Do you know someone who deserves a Community Builder award? You can nominate them.
What made you fall in love with Ottawa?
Maybe it was sitting in a shaded waterfront picnic spot at Commissioners Park. The first time you bit into a SuzyQ doughnut and tasted that perfect balance of cakey, gooey goodness. Eating handmade vegan perogies while beating the high score of Terminator 3 pinball at House of TARG. Maybe you were walking along the Mer Bleue boardwalk and realizing how easy it is to find little bits of paradise just outside the city’s core.
At United Way Ottawa, we believe that for a city to be great it has to be great for everyone. We fall deeper in love with our city because of the people working hard every day to make Ottawa a better, safer, stronger, more exciting place to live.
We wanted to let all these unsung heroes know how much we and the community appreciates them, so we started the Community Builder Awards program in 2000. Every year, we recognize (with a surprise visit from our Recognition Team) about 30 organizations, neighbourhood groups and individuals who work tirelessly to improve our city. These Community Builders have their names permanently etched on the Wall of Inspiration at City Hall’s Jean Pigott Place, so people will see their contributions for years to come.
By Hayley Robateau
Manager, Media Relations, United Way Ottawa
