From April 18 to 25, National Volunteer Week is a time to recognize the vital role volunteers play in communities across Canada. At Arthritis Society Canada, it’s also an opportunity to honour those who go above and beyond to support people living with arthritis.
Named after Arthritis Society Canada’s founder, The Mary Pack Volunteer Awards celebrate the most dedicated and inspirational volunteers, and the contributions they have made to the organization and those affected by arthritis. Presented annually, these awards celebrate individuals and committees who demonstrate outstanding dedication, leadership and compassion.
This year’s Mary Pack Volunteer Award winners include:
- Dr. Sarah Campillo (Quebec) – Kids on the Move Camp Supporter: For more than 20 years, Dr. Campillo’s unwavering commitment and dedication has transformed the lives of hundreds of children and youth living with arthritis. She successfully helped launch our camp in Quebec in 2003 and has demonstrated incredible leadership ever since.
- Maggie Douglas (Ontario) – Camp counsellor in Ontario and Alberta: Maggie models accountability, empathy, and initiative while mentoring younger campers and newer counsellors to become future leaders. Her dedication to fostering an inclusive environment and building confidence in others has created a culture grounded in unity and excellence that extends far beyond a single season.
- John Flemming (Nova Scotia) – East Coast Roast volunteer: As recent co-chair of the East Coast Roast, John has been involved in this signature event for many years, leveraging his community relationships to secure meaningful sponsorships and donor support. His enthusiasm, generosity, and commitment to collaboration have built lasting partnerships that will continue to benefit the arthritis community for years to come.
- Michelle McWalters (Ontario) – Arthritis Connections peer support facilitator: Michelle’s passionate, empathetic facilitation consistently receives glowing feedback from attendees who feel heard and supported. Her extensive volunteer work includes more than five years with the advocacy team, consumer review panels and numerous events.
- Karam Roberts (British Columbia) – Spokesperson and in-office support: Karam authentically uses her voice to share her lived experience with arthritis, deepen awareness and strengthen donor relationships. Despite managing her complex health condition, she reliably shows up to inspire generosity, create meaningful connections, and help replace misconceptions about arthritis with empathy, and hope.
- Kelsey Rusk (New Brunswick) – Arthritis Line volunteer: Kelsey exceeds expectations by connecting callers with local supports and offering to volunteer on alternative days to ensure program coverage. Her deep empathy, strong character, and dedication to people with arthritis make her an invaluable team player.
- Matthew Sholdice (Ontario) – Camp Ontario counsellor and Club Sunrise volunteer: One summer, when a camper repeatedly failed the swim test at Camp Ontario despite their best effort, Matthew offered to get in the water with them every day to help them improve. While this was not expected of counsellors, Matthew chose to go above and beyond. As an aspiring rheumatologist, he embodies compassion that defines an exceptional role model and volunteer.
- Jamie Tagseth (Alberta) – Camp All In This Together counsellor: Jamie’s positive energy and inclusive approach ensure no one is left behind at camp, while her thoughtful feedback during nightly meetings sparks meaningful improvements for the next day. By openly sharing her own experiences living with juvenile arthritis, she creates a powerful connection that helps youth feel truly understood and supported.
Nominated by staff and fellow volunteers, recipients reflect Arthritis Society Canada’s vision, mission and core values. Their contributions help drive progress and inspire others, supporting the organization’s work to improve the lives of the more than six million Canadians affected by arthritis.
