News

Eva Reti, Volunteer Award of Distinction

As a volunteer in support of Hospice Whitby-Roger Anderson House and VON Durham Hos-pice Services, Eva has championed care that prioritizes comfort, dignity and the wishes of individuals and families navigating end-of-life journeys. Currently chair of the Hospice Whit-by board, Eva has played a vital role in grassroots fundraising and community engagement, contributing countless hours to local events, public speaking, educational initiatives and do-nor stewardship activities.

In accepting the award, Eva noted that Hospice Whitby-Roger Anderson House hopes to wel-come clients early in 2027, and she is proud to partner with VON to bring needed care to the community. “It's one thing to build the building, but it's another thing to know that we have a phenomenal group of people who are going to run it on our behalf, and support our phi-losophy, and to continue carrying on the compassionate care that VON has provided to our country since 1897.”

Jennifer McLellan, Staff Award of Distinction

Jennifer, who is manager of home and community care for VON Simcoe County, began her VON journey in 2006 as a SMART (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together)® coordinator. As chair of the SMART community of practice and co-chair of the SMART standardization committee, Jennifer helped develop and implement policies, procedures and best practices that strengthened program quality and consistency across Ontario. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jennifer helped to transition SMART exercise programming to virtual platforms. She is a collaborative leader who fosters environments where staff feel valued and empowered.

Jennifer noted that she was honoured to receive the award and that she has enjoyed work-ing with staff across VON. “It doesn't take one person to get an award like this—it takes the team that I work alongside that helps me be successful in the things that I do.”

Brian Fenn, Lifetime Associate Award

Brian consistently goes above and beyond as a volunteer driver, ensuring that clients not on-ly arrive safely at their destinations, but also feel respected, valued and supported. He has stepped forward when clients needed him most, including providing last-minute transportation to ensure a client could access critical dialysis treatment. His positive attitude, compassionate approach and ability to build genuine connections consistently earn praise from both clients and staff.

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for this fantastic award you have presented to me,” Brian said.

Joyce Marshall, Lifetime Associate Award

Joyce began her volunteer journey with VON in the SMART (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together)® exercise program and has continued to expand her service and leadership over 25 years. She has been an active member of the VON Durham Community Corporation for many years, serving as chair for 10 years, and leading many innovative fundraising events, including a chocolate lover’s luncheon. Today, she serves as a director on the board for Hospice Whitby-Roger Anderson House, where she champions compassionate care and support for individuals and families. She has been actively involved in numerous municipal and community groups, helping build awareness and support for hospice services, and has played an important role in fundraising initiatives.

In accepting the award, Joyce paid tribute to retired VON staff member Evelyn Smith, who encouraged her to volunteer for VON 25 years ago. Joyce said she is most proud of helping to establish, along with John Henry, regional chair and CEO of Durham Region, the Durham Re-gion Hospice Awareness Day, marked each January 29.

Ron Elliott, Lifetime Associate Award

Ron has been a supporter of VON Middlesex-Elgin for more than 30 years, contributing his time, expertise and energy to strengthen the organization and the community. As chair of the Community Corporation from 2006 to 2015, Ron provided thoughtful leadership during a period of significant growth. Ron also chaired the fundraising committee for many years. His commitment to service continues today through his volunteer work as a driver in the Strathroy area. He is also a member of the community relations and advocacy committee, alongside his wife Michelle.

Ron said, “VON's been part of our family life for many years. The ability to meet the people that work so hard at VON to deliver services to make sure our clients are safe and healthy is a real honour.” He added, “Being part of the board of directors and a number of committees, it's been my good fortune to spend some really good quality time with VON and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

Paula O'Neill, Lady Ishbel Aberdeen Award

Paula is a respected leader, mentor and champion for nursing excellence whose dedication has shaped care delivery, staff development and innovation across VON Nova Scotia for nearly two decades. She was instrumental in the implementation of the VON registered nurse-authorized prescriber program in Nova Scotia. She was also a driving force behind the implementation and ongoing refinement of the clinic-first approach in Cape Breton, collaborating with colleagues across the province to share lessons learned and strengthen service delivery. A trusted mentor, Paula has empowered nurses to think critically, develop confidence and grow as leaders.

“I'm extremely proud and honoured to receive this award today,” Paula said. “But this is tru-ly a team effort, and in that respect, I’d like to share it with my team.” Recently retired, Paula said her time with VON was the cherry on top of her nursing career. “I've loved every minute of it. I believe in what we do, and it's just an amazing group of people that I've had the good fortune of working with, and I love and appreciate every single one of them.”

Jody Larochelle, Lady Ishbel Aberdeen Award

Jody played a pivotal role in the development and implementation of VON Connect, helping design and lead the AlayaCare configuration that has modernized operations and strengthened service delivery across VON. Working closely with business process owners, she tirelessly supported the standardization, design and redesign of workflows. Her contributions to community support programs helped transition many programs from paper-based systems to electronic workflows, creating new opportunities for consistency, efficiency and improved client service. Jody’s ability to bring diverse groups together and build consensus was instrumental to a successful implementation.

Jody said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. My sincere thanks to my nominators. A special thank-you to the VON awards committee for this recognition and for celebrating the contributions of people across VON.” She added, “I am grateful to be included among those who reflect the spirit and the legacy of Lady Ishbel Aberdeen. To the countless people who make everything we do possible, I want to celebrate this with you and thank you for bringing joy and meaning to our work.” Jody also thanked her mom and her partner for their love and support.