In recognition of her over 55 years of volunteer work, contributing her time and efforts towards building culture in the City of Oshawa through volunteering, advocacy, fundraising, networking, and bringing people together to support the development of Oshawa’s arts, heritage, and music.
Community Legend Award
Each year, a Community Legend Award recipient is selected and recognized by Oshawa City Council. In addition, a temporary display will be available at the Delpark Homes Centre, along with a permanent plaque.
Eligibility
The Community Legend Award recognizes a person of any age or an organization/group who:
- made a significant contribution to an activity, sport or community initiative as a volunteer
- contributed to improving the quality of life of the Oshawa community
- made a significant impact on the Oshawa community at a grassroots level through arts and culture, sports or community initiatives
Nomination form
Nominations for the 2025 Community Legend Award are now closed.
Review process
Nominations for the Community Legend Award are reviewed and selected by the Community and Operations Services Committee for recommendation to City Council for final approval.
Award recipients
Joanne Kozaroff
Actively contributes to the empowerment of young girls pursuing their passion for hockey.
Ukrainian Canadian Congress - Durham Region Branch
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress - Durham Region Branch (UCC-Durham) impacts the Oshawa community through local initiatives it has led in response to the geopolitical situation in Ukraine.
Jim Fergusson
Jim is the lead of the Food for Clothing Exchange initiative in Oshawa. For over 30 years, this event has taken place on the first Saturday of November at a local school gymnasium. The number of individuals served varies from year to year, with more than 530 receiving clothing in 2019. Donations of non-perishable food items are accepted as well and are donated to local food banks following the event. Any clothing or footwear not selected during the event is donated afterwards to agencies and shelters where a need has been identified.
S.J. Jim Brewster
Jim was born in Oshawa in 1924. When the war broke out, he enlisted in the Air Force. He became a navigator on bombers, mostly Lancasters, and flew many missions over enemy territory. After the war, he started a business called Mechanical Advertising, which is still in business today. Over the years, he has donated almost $1,000,000 to the Oshawa hospital. He has been a member of Legion #43 for over 70 years. A street is to be named after him.
Sharon Clark
Sharon has worked closely with Durham Children's Aid Foundation through her charity, Sharon's Kids, which is celebrating 50 years this year! Sharon has worked tirelessly finding ways to better children's lives at Christmas and year-round. Her big heart and caring attitude have brought happiness to countless children through the years and are reflected in her message of "making smiles possible".
Gord Reid
Gord was a foster parent, a Block Parent, and a member of the Neighbourhood Watch. He volunteered with Community Care Durham, Meals on Wheels and the Oshawa Senior Citizens Centers. He was awarded the Provincial honour of Senior of the Year in 2008. Gord was also a tireless advocate for the rights of older adults. His persistence resulted in the modification of the income tax rebate program to favour low-income seniors.
Mal Knocker
Mal has served his community through the Canadian Armed Forces, the Oshawa Fire Department (35 years), as a coach to numerous teams, a fundraiser and a blood donor (140 units). He is a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #43 and also Drum Major of their Pipe Band.
Chelsea Smith
A dedicated student who has given her time at the Y.M.C.A., a local seniors centre, Lakeridge Health, as an afterschool helper, as well as helping to build schools in Africa.
Jackie Finn
42 years of community service with the trade union, Meals on Wheels and the Auto Workers Community Credit Union.
Viola Pilkey
Significant contribution of time and talent to social causes and political parties.
Bob Hooper
"Oshawa's #1 Fan"
Ken Shaw
A tireless volunteer devoted to numerous charities.
Dave Thompson
Dedication and leadership in the development of rugby in Oshawa.
Jim Potticary
Advocating for the health, welfare and happiness of senior citizens
Oshawa Block Parents Association
Providing a safe haven for the children in our community.
Contact Us
Service Oshawa
Oshawa City Hall
50 Centre St. S.
Oshawa, ON L1H 3Z7
Phone: 905-436-3311
Toll Free: 1-800-667-4292
Email: service@oshawa.ca
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