Please join Empower Simcoe in congratulating the deserving recipients of the 2024-2025 Gift of the Heart Awards.
“The Gift of the Heart Awards recognize extraordinary individuals and organizations who have impacted the lives of the people and families supported by Empower Simcoe and our employees through their exceptional commitment and service,” says Empower Simcoe CEO, Dr. Claudine Cousins. “We’re so very grateful for their contributions that have been essential in advancing our mission of empowering people to lead a meaningful and inclusive life.”
Honoured during Empower Simcoe’s 72nd Annual General Meeting on September 24th, the 2024-2025 Gift of the Heart Recipients are:
Valerie Scott (Volunteer)
For over a decade, Valerie has been a passionate advocate and dedicated volunteer with Empower Simcoe, now serving as President of the Empower Simcoe Board of Directors. Valerie’s leadership has helped raise vital funds and awareness through campaigns like Lakeshore Ridge, Hooray for Outdoor Play, and the Celebrating Community Champions Fashion Show. From leveraging community connections to hosting exclusive fundraising events, Valerie’s impact is remarkable. Thank you, Valerie, for your tireless commitment to the people and families we support at Empower Simcoe.
Mike Smith (Volunteer)
For bringing joy, creativity, and a true sense of belonging to the people we support through his holiday craft sessions and lively bingo games. Thoughtfully planning and providing all supplies and prizes himself, Mike creates meaningful moments filled with fun, connection, and celebration. As both someone we support and a dedicated volunteer, Mike reminds us all of the power of inclusion and giving back.
Hoda Mata (Family)
For her dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to supporting newcomer families in our community. A retired teacher and devoted volunteer, Hoda has selflessly supported countless families, offering translation, advocacy, and unwavering care—often attending medical, housing, and school appointments to ensure families feel understood and empowered. Her quiet generosity has changed lives, offering not just language support, but true belonging. Hoda, thank you for your compassion, strength, and the hope you bring to our community.
Melissa Belviso (Self-Advocate)
As a passionate advocate and valued member of Empower Simcoe’s Believe In Yourself Committee, Melissa inspires through her positivity, leadership, and dedication to inclusion. Whether speaking at employee orientation days, representing Empower Simcoe at events, or being newly elected to the Community Living Ontario Provincial Council, Melissa leads with heart and courage. Her voice makes a difference, and we’re honoured to celebrate her with this Gift of the Heart Award.
Empower Simcoe Information Technology team (Employee):
For their outstanding dedication, innovation, and impact on our agency’s ability to adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital world. Empower Simcoe’s I.T. has been instrumental in driving innovation, efficiency, and connection across the agency. Whether it’s troubleshooting daily issues with empathy and efficiency, implementing new platforms that make our work easier, or equipping the people we support to stay connected to their friends, family and community, the I.T. team exemplifies what it means to have the “heart” behind our mission. Congratulations to I.T. Manager Brad Hooper, I.T. Support Specialists Joe Adams and Dena Wilson, I.T. Associate Bryan Dusome, and Digital Solutions and Technology Specialist J.P. Muldoon.
Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services (Community Partner of the Year, Orillia)
Empower Simcoe proudly recognizes Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services for their collaboration in co-facilitating the Nookmis Mishoomis Program. This culturally rich initiative revives Anishinabek traditions and language for Indigenous families with young children. Through shared leadership with Angelia Brooks, our EarlyON Indigenous Coordinator, this partnership has strengthened cultural identity, connection, and community. We are deeply grateful for this impactful collaboration that continues to uplift, empower, and honour Indigenous children and families.
Allandale Pharmasave Pharmacy (Community Partner of the Year, Barrie)
In recognition of their extraordinary commitment to Empower Simcoe and the people and families we support. From sponsoring Empower Simcoe’s Celebrating Community Champions Fashion Show and annual Golf Tournament, to delivering holiday gifts, supporting Electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) implementation, and providing responsive, high-quality pharmacy services and employee training, Allandale Pharmasave Pharmacy’s commitment to our agency is exceptional. Under owner Mark Ellias’s leadership, Allandale Pharmasave Pharmacy embodies true partnership — promoting inclusion, empowerment, and community well-being at every opportunity.
