News

This year’s VON Week was a joyful and meaningful time to celebrate the compassion, commitment, and impact that define VON. Under this year’s theme, “At the Heart of Care,” staff, volunteers, clients, donors, and community partners came together across Ontario and Nova Scotia to #CaptureTheCare—honouring the people and moments that make VON so special.

From May 19-25, teams marked the week with creativity, connection, and care. They welcomed the community to open houses, organized games, trivia challenges and raffles, decorated doors, and of course, shared plenty of snacks in VON blue. 

“This VON Week, we had the best participation by far. There were two exciting grand prizes, a hoodie from the VON Week box and a portable car vacuum. Every employee had one ballot to start, with several chances to earn more ballots through various activities like responding to trivia questions, sending selfies and stories, attending Wednesday’s barbecue and participating in a daily ‘Duck Hunt.’ We sure had some fun!” said Tracy Parent, Office Administrator at the VON North Bay branch. 

The VON flag was raised alongside provincial and federal flags, local monuments were lit in VON blue, and mayoral proclamations recognized the essential work VON does every day to support individuals and families in their homes and communities.

“We are reaching thousands of people, helping them to flourish and live in the best possible health. That is something worth celebrating," said VON’s President and CEO, Jo-Anne Poirier. "During VON Week, we also recognized staff members who reached milestone years at VON, from five to 40 years. There are 657 staff this year! Congratulations to each and every one of you who is celebrating a milestone, and thank you for your strong commitment and for being an essential part of our team."

The week also provided opportunities to build connections and share moments of joy across provinces and teams. Ashley Zimmerman, Coordinator, Caregiver Support & Education at VON Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant, reflected:

“The most memorable part of VON Week was all of the silly and fun memories our team made through our celebrations. We went all-out for True Blue Tuesday, and it made for some really good laughs and photos. Above all, the opportunities that arose for meaningful connections with colleagues and volunteers whom I normally don’t see in my day-to-day, made it so special for me.”

The excitement continued with the second annual 50/50 Virtual Raffle, which raised nearly $40,000, half of which will support VON programs and services. Congratulations to this year’s winners: Greg Nix, an award-winning volunteer from Nova Scotia, and Sarah St-Jacques, a VON personal support worker (PSW) in Ontario.

Thank you to everyone who made VON Week 2025 a true celebration of care, connection, and community. We are counting down the days to the next VON Week, May 17-23, 2026!