Recognizing Exceptional Volunteers

2026 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards honour recipients for outstanding contributions and volunteer leadership

The Ontario government is honouring nearly 5,000 exceptional individuals through the 2026 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards. These annual awards celebrate adult and youth volunteers for their outstanding contributions and ongoing service to organizations such as non-profits, schools, community centres, hospitals, museums, libraries and community associations.

“The Ontario Volunteer Service Awards honour Ontarians who continue to show up for others through selfless, sustained service,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “We thank them for their commitment to helping others, fostering a sense of belonging and strengthening community resilience across Ontario.”

Nominated individuals will be honoured at one of 30 local award ceremonies taking place across Ontario this year. The awards acknowledge adult volunteers for their continuous service in five-year increments, and youth volunteers for their continuous service of two or more years. Recipients will receive personalized certificates and distinctive lapel pins in recognition of their service.

The 2026 award recipients have demonstrated outstanding leadership through civic action, supporting a wide range of organizations and causes, including local after-school, community and food security programs. These volunteers also serve as board members, engage in fundraising efforts and contribute to the enhancement of the arts, culture, heritage and recreation sectors.

For more information about the program or to submit a nomination for next year, visit the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards webpage.

Quick Facts

• Since 1986, more than 260,800 volunteers have been recognized through the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards.
• This year, approximately 800 youth and 4,200 adults will be recognized for their volunteer service at 1,276 organizations.
• The Ontario Volunteer Service Award is the province’s largest annual volunteer recognition program.
• The Ontario Volunteer Service Award eligibility details are available online.
• In 2025, the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism promoted over 45 recognition program ceremonies, celebrating the achievements of over 6,400 recipients who make the province a better place to live.