Helpers

These stories about the people making positive impacts in our community are made possible through the continued support of O'Coin Walker & Associates - BMO Nesbitt Burns as part of our Community Leaders Program.

Trio of 'phenomenal' OSMH volunteers tally 113 years of service

'Every day is different and people that we porter are so appreciative and they think it is a wonderful service,' said one of 216 volunteers who play critical roles at OSMH

May 16, 2024 12:30 PM Read more >

'Committed' Orillia retiree enjoys keeping Sharing Place in order

'She does the lion's share of the warehouse work. She keeps it very organized and very tidy,' said food bank official about work of tireless volunteer

Apr 24, 2024 1:30 PM Read more >

'Great place': Orillia Literacy Council about more than reading, writing

'Anything you need to learn, we will teach you,' says Orillia and District Literacy Council, which offers free, 'individualized' learning opportunities

Mar 23, 2024 2:30 PM Read more >

Local CNOY organizers vow to 'smash' $200K goal for Lighthouse

'To have that many people walking to support those experiencing homelessness ... it's very special,' official says ahead of Saturday's fundraising walk

Feb 22, 2024 7:00 PM Read more >

Busy Sharing Place needs volunteers to join its 'incredible' team

'We are very busy and we have our core volunteer team, but we just need more people to help us,' said food bank official

Jan 18, 2024 6:15 PM Read more >

'Crucial' Loonie Lunch serves hot meals every week in Orillia

'It's a really tough time, and I don't know what I would do if I didn't have support like this,' says grateful participant

Dec 29, 2023 2:30 PM Read more >

Surrogacy experience inspires local author to pen children's book

Steph Dunn wrote and illustrated I Will Carry You Now; 'I hope it can help lots of families talk about their journeys'

Nov 18, 2023 2:30 PM Read more >

Orillia's Helping Hands finding unique ways to 'help more people'

Community is also stepping up to help; Shamrock Bay Resort donated more than $2,000, while Ripples of Kindness also chose Helping Hands, donating $8,400

Oct 20, 2023 11:46 AM Read more >

Orillia nominee for prestigious award was inspired by grandmother

'She's kind of the impetus for my work ... (so to be) recognized just feels really, really good and validating,” said Patrick Fogarty grad of work in Alzheimer's disease, dementia

Sep 19, 2023 7:00 PM Read more >

'Special and simple': Ricky the Rock Snake brings life to trail

'Technology has taken over and we need to get back to the basics: the outdoors and imagination,' says mom of three boys who started project on rail trail

Sep 18, 2023 1:30 PM Read more >

• 1
• 2
• 3
• >