Local Love Week is more than a celebration — it’s a reminder of what’s possible when people come together for community.
This year, we wrapped up an inspiring week by recognizing the individuals, workplaces, and partners who go above and beyond to strengthen Northeastern Ontario. Our Community Impact Awards shine a spotlight on the changemakers whose leadership, generosity, and creativity are building a stronger, more connected region.
And what a group of changemakers they are. Here are this year's award winners:
Rising Star Award
Recognizes: An emerging leader who brings fresh ideas, innovative thinking, and a strong community mindset to supporting United Way.
Winners: Maya Woronicz (Cochrane/Timiskaming) and Ishu (Nipissing Parry Sound)
Community Champion Award
Recognizes: A volunteer who exemplifies the heart of United Way through dedication, leadership, and meaningful community impact.
Winners: Laurie De Cario (Cochrane/Timiskaming), Emily Gauthier (Nipissing/Parry Sound) and Glencore Commitee (Sudbury)
Corporate Support & Engagement Award
Recognizes: An organization whose commitment to United Way goes far beyond traditional corporate support through leadership involvement, advocacy, creative engagement, and sustained partnership.
Winners: Discovery Porcupine (Cochrane/Timiskaming) and Voyageur Aviation (Nipissing/Parry Sound)
Game Changer Award
Recognizes: A workplace or individual that reimagined their United Way campaign through creativity, adaptability, and resilience—maintaining or exceeding campaign excellence in innovative ways.
Winners: Sarah-Lee (Cochrane/Timiskaming) and Enbridge (North Bay)
Spirit of the Community Award
Recognizes: A workplace or individual that demonstrates collaboration, inclusivity, and a strong community mindset, actively spreading local love and strengthening community connections.
Winners: Sergeant James Butler (Cochrane/Timiskaming), Canador Aviation (Nipissing/Parry Sound) and COSTCO (Sudbury)
Special Appreciation Award
Recognizes: An organization or partner whose exceptional support, generosity, or collaboration deserves special acknowledgment.
Winners: Jennifer McIntyre (Cochrane/Timiskaming), IG Wealth Management (Nipissing/Parry Sound), Price Signs (Nipissing/Parry Sound) and Shannon's Community Pharmacy (Sudbury)
Step Up for the Community Award
Recognizes: An organization that recognizes the the community needed our help this year and stepped up to make a difference.
Winners: Vale/United Steelworkers
Labour of Love Award
Recognizes: a partner in the Labour movement that works alongside United Way to support individuals and families in our community.
Winners: CUPE Council and North Bay & District Labour Council
Community Partnership Award
Recognizes: a partner that demonstrates exceptional community support through their overall partnership with United Way.
Winners: Homelessness Network and Sudbury Hospice
“Local Love Week is about celebrating the power of community. These award recipients represent the very best of Northeastern Ontario — leaders who understand that when we work together, we build stronger communities for everyone,” says Cory Roslyn, Executive Director at United Way Centraide North East Ontario/Nord-est de l'Ontario.
This year’s recipients show us that Local Love isn’t just a theme — it’s action. It’s leadership. It’s partnership. It’s community.
To all of our award winners: thank you for showing what local love truly looks like.
