On Wednesday, June 26th, we spent the evening at Paintbox Bistro recognizing and celebrating the people who help make BFO-Toronto the organization that it is: our amazing volunteers and donors. The people whose contributions help provide hope, healing and peace to hundreds of Torontonians every year. Whether it be spending your time volunteering, providing financial support or helping organize our events, without you, the collective success of BFO would not be possible.

The evening kicked off with some delicious refreshments and led into our awards presentation. The Noah Thorek Award is given to a volunteer who has made outstanding long-term commitments to BFO which helped shape the history and culture here. We are proud to announce Ryan Holt received this year’s award. Ryan’s passion for peer-to-peer support and work done as the Communications Chair of the board have immensely influenced the culture at BFO. Started last year by Justin Linden, the Lesley Parrott Award is awarded to individuals who, in the face of personal loss, displayed fortitude and empathy that helped transform the world around them. Having supported BFO in a multitude of ways for more than 30 years, the recipient of this year’s Lesley Parrott Award was Allan Cole. We also acknowledged Jane Smart who was recognized for her contributions to BFO as a longtime volunteer facilitator and Board Chair, helping BFO through a tough period without an Executive Director.

The night was a great reminder of the impact of your unwavering support. As we continue serving our city, we hope that you find ways to honour your loved ones through giving us your time, energy and heart. For the volunteers and donors that were unable to make it, thank you for your support, it does not go unnoticed. Special thanks to Linden & Associates for sponsoring the event this year.