At Habitat for Humanity Canada’s 2026 Leadership and AGM Meeting in Toronto, longtime Habitat for Humanity Niagara volunteer Carl Ryan received the Terry Petkau Legacy Award for Outstanding Volunteer.
The Terry Petkau Legacy Awards honour the legacy of the late Terry Petkau, also known as the heart of Habitat. Terry was a generous and inclusive leader who inspired and mentored others, and whose contributions continue to expand safe and affordable housing in Canada and around the world. These awards are the highest honours given to members of Habitat for Humanity in Canada.
A dedicated volunteer since 2004, Carl has contributed more than two decades of service, helping guide Habitat Niagara as Vice Chair and Chair of the Board through growth and rising community need, while expanding build capacity from one home a year to multiple homes annually.
Drawing on his construction expertise, Carl has united partners, volunteers, and community members to support the building of 66 homes for local families and advance Habitat Niagara’s largest project to date, a nine-unit build in Welland, Ont. Beyond the build site, he has strengthened governance, championed Habitat ReStore growth, and kept families at the centre of every decision, leaving a lasting impact on the organization and the communities they serve.
Congratulations Carl!