Last week, I had the privilege of covering the Community Builders Award Gala for United Way at the Ottawa Convention Centre. What an inspiring event! Wow! So many individuals were recognized for their amazing contributions to our community and their devotion to humanity.

Mayor Jim Watson kicked off the evening with a few words and presented the award for the Community Builder of the Year to Dr. Jeffrey Turnbull.

Helping with Furniture displayed just how much they help refugee families acquire the furniture they need to start a life in Ottawa.

The attendees took time to mingle over dinner…

Towards the end of dinner, Paul Benoit, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ottawa International Airport, was surprised with an award of his own for his work with Project Clear Skies, which has contributed more than $800,000 in support of worthy projects in Ottawa-Gatineau, including a library upgrade for Alternative Learning Styles and renovations to the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa.

The overwhelming support and gratitude towards all of the award recipients and volunteers did not go unnoticed. It was truly an honor to be part of this evening!