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2026 Volunteer Awards

Volunteer of the Year

The Volunteer of the Year award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond in their dedication, service, and positive impact on our community. The award celebrates individuals who have shown exceptional commitment, inspired others through their actions, and embodied the true spirit of volunteerism. Each year, one youth (under 18) and one adult (18 and over) recipient are selected to reflect excellence across all age groups.

Selection Criteria

  • Exceptional Commitment – Consistently dedicates time, energy, and skills beyond expectations.​

  • Meaningful Impact – Has made a significant and measurable difference to programs, events, or the lives of those served.​

  • Leadership & Initiative – Demonstrates leadership qualities and takes proactive steps to improve or support initiatives.​

  • Inspiration to Others – Serves as a role model, encouraging and motivating peers and fellow volunteers.​

  • Positive Attitude – Contributes with enthusiasm, kindness, and respect, fostering a welcoming environment.

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  • Minimum 20 hours of volunteering at GPS

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Nomination Form

Who are you nominating?
I am submitting a nomination for myself
I am submitting a nomination for another individual
Nominee Information
Nominator Information

This section only needs to be filled out by nominators (if you are nominating someone other than yourself)

Which award(s) are you applying for?
Age Group
Youth (under 18)
Adult (18+)
How many years have you consecutively volunteered at GPS?

(Minimum 20 hours)

Please describe why this nominee deserves to be recognized

Whether it is their impact, reach, initiative, challenges overcome, or how they have inspired others, use the space below to provide an overview of the contributions the nominee has made at Gifted People Services.

Past Recipients

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Stephen Kwan

2025 Volunteer of the Year (Adult)

Dr. Kwan is an Ontario registered Chinese and Western medicine practitioner with decades of clinical experience. He has held many free lectures on TCM in Chinese Medicine forums and has won numerous awards, such as the 2024 Pine Tree Senior Awards and the Best Volunteer Award. has been volunteering at G.P.S. since October 2023. His sincere kindness and high-quality treatments have benefited many children with autism as well as our staff members.

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Shayne Yang

2025 Volunteer of the Year (Youth)

Shayne Yang, a Grade 12 student , has been a dedicated volunteer at Gifted People Services for two years. He began as a skating tutor, helping children build confidence and coordination, and later led three STEM camps that introduced kids to hands-on science and robotics. As a mentor for GPS’s FIRST Lego League team, Shayne continues to inspire creativity and teamwork.

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