Habitat Niagara’s volunteer award ceremony is part of Ignite Volunteerism, a nationwide celebration recognizing the power of participation during National Volunteer Week (April 19 – 25, 2026). This initiative highlights the vital role volunteers play in strengthening communities, while working to rebuild and reenergize Canada’s culture of giving back.
National Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate the incredible individuals who make Habitat for Humanity Niagara’s work possible. This year, we recognized our volunteers as the true stars of our organization, each one bringing their own light, dedication, and impact to the communities we serve.
Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do across Niagara. United by the shared goal of making safe and affordable housing accessible to all, their time, energy, and commitment help build homes, communities and hope.
Whether contributing on build sites, supporting our ReStores, or lending their voices in the community, our volunteers are an invaluable part of the Habitat family. Like stars in the night sky, each volunteer’s contribution, big or small, helps create something meaningful and powerful when brought together.
During National Volunteer Week, we were proud to celebrate our volunteers in several ways, including our Night Under the Stars Volunteer Dinner and Awards Ceremony. It was a special evening to reflect, connect, and shine a spotlight on the individuals whose efforts truly stand out.
We are pleased to congratulate this year’s award recipients and extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our volunteers. Your passion and generosity continue to light the way forward. Because of you, we are building more than homes—we are building hope.
Top Volunteer Hours
St. Catharines ReStore: Syl Gerritsma
Grimsby ReStore: George Yakowenko
Fonthill ReStore: Chris Malkiewich
Construction Crew: Michael Ennamorato
Salvage Crew: Derek Tweedy
Celebrating 10 Years
Ryan Doherty
Celebrating 5 Years
Bruce Krushelnicki
Michael Scholfield
Salvage Crew Star – Alan Walker
Construction Crew Star – John House
Grimsby ReStore
Merchandising Star – Dolores Whitter
Donation Centre Star – Peter Fedycczko
Rookie Star – Davis Terauds
Mentorship Star – John Smith
Customer Service Star – Diane Love
People & Culture Star – Teresa Barich
Fonthill ReStore
Merchandising Star – Heather Howkins
Donation Centre Star – Cody Caughill
Rookie Star – Beatrice Robinson
Mentorship Star – Doug Carey
Customer Service Star – Becky Harris
People & Culture Star – Doug Carey
Owen Kilpiainen
St. Catharines ReStore
Merchandising Star – Warda Al-Juboori
Donation Centre Star – Pieter Aanen
Rookie Star –Jason Clements
Mentorship Star – Kelly Murray
Customer Service Star – Helen Kennedy
People & Culture Star – Syl Gerritsma
Volunteer of the Year
Syl Gerritsma