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Rita Coolen
Rita’s dedication to community service is well known to the Two Rivers Neighbourhood in the St. Patrick’s Ward. Beginning in 1999, Rita became a core member of this group, helping to provide essential services and programming for the residents of the St. Patrick’s Ward. Taking phone calls at home, recruiting volunteers, and running programs are only a few of the ways Rita has contributed to the community over the years.
Rita’s friendly personality, sense of humour, and passion for the neighbourhood group are contagious, and have made a positive impact on our community.
Roberto Topan
As director of Coro Cantitalis Guelph for the past 12 years, Roberto Topan has spent countless hours making sure just the right sheet of music has been chosen for the choir and just the right amount of practice has gone into it. Due to his outstanding leadership and commitment, the Coro Cantitalis have been invited to many festivals and events. The choir also performs for seniors and at nursing homes. They have opened and closed many events in this community and are always well received.
Roberto Topan is always ready to take on last minute request, and remains very dedicated to his community.
Jean Truex
Jean is an outstanding teacher who was employed with Tytler Public School for approximately 18 years.
After retirement, Jean remained at the school as a volunteer where she initiated a “1 – 2 – 3 – Go” primary readiness program at the school. As well, Jean volunteered for a program that seeks to provide needy children with a quality “best start” program for education. This program is in its second year with much of the funding for materials coming from Jean herself.
Jean truly offers the children a head start into the school system with a tireless, dedicated, and caring personality. Her dedication to Guelph’s young citizens is inspiring.
Olga and Joe Ciaravella
Olga and Joe Ciaravella started out with a small Meat & Cheese store in 1975, and then opened what is now a successful banquet hall business known as Guelph Place.
Giving back to the community has been their greatest reward. Through various types of donations, Olga and Joe have helped support fundraising for the Homewood, Hospice, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Women In Crisis, and many more. For almost 30 years, Olga and Joe have been committed volunteers. Their countless hours of dedication and service are appreciated by numerous organizations in the city.
Orin Reid (Posthumous award)
The late Orin Reid was committed to excellence in everything he did, whether in his construction and development business, Reid’s Heritage Homes Ltd, or in his many charitable and philanthropy works. He left a significant legacy in the family he left behind, which continues to contribute to many of our city’s charities, schools, children’s programs, and arts and culture events.
Guelph is fortunate to have had an individual like Orin as part of our community.