A small group of women was recognized Saturday for their dedication and commitment to helping others.
Barrie MPP Ann Hoggarth presented the Ontario Leading Women, Leading Girls, to five women who have made a difference for stroke victims, inmates being released from jail, abused women and Native children.
"These extraordinary women have demonstrated leadership in fostering positive changes within our communities," said Hoggarth. "I thank them for being an inspiration to us all.
Shannon Murree, a local real estate investment salesperson and consultant, received the award for her dedication to reducing violence against women and her efforts to help victims
"I'm not afraid to say that I am a survivor of abuse and that is my 'Why?'," she said after accepting the award.
"To know that I am alive to be a successful businesswoman and to help other women ... is also my 'Why?'"
Murree has advise for other women.
"Whatever has happened in your life, don't give up.
"It is important to be able to overcome adversity and turn it into something positive."
In its 11th year, Ontario’s Leading Women, Leading Girls, Building Communities Awards have recognized more than 745 exceptional women and girls across the province who have demonstrated leadership and improved the lives of others through their work, activism or volunteer activities.
“This is a great afternoon of celebrating the amazing women who continue to contribute so much to our city and the greater community,” Ms. Hoggarth said. “This year’s honourees are both inspirations to local young women.”
Suzy Kies is the president of the Aboriginal People's Commission of Ontario. She also works for the Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre, developing and facilitating culture-based programs.
Working directly with school children who have fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, Kies creates opportunities for women to develop employment skills.
Her volunteer work over the past several years includes various boards and she is known for "going above and beyond to build up her community."
"It's one of those things I just do," she said upon receiving her award. "I see a need and that's it."
"It's something to be getting an award for something that comes naturally."
The following women were also recognized:
Kelly Scaglione is the founder of Restoring Dignity and Hope, a group that provides community outreach support to women and men dealing with incarceration and release.
Darlene Graves has been volunteering with the Stroke Recovery Association of Barrie and District for the past 20 years, assisting with exercise programs, speech therapy and social activities for stroke survivors and their families.
Dorothy Ramsay is a volunteer in the Barrie Labour Council where she is involved with marches and other activities supporting labour issues affecting women.
The Leading Women, Leading Girls, Building Communities Recognition Program launched in 2006 and more than 745 women and girls across Ontario have been honoured for their community leadership contributions.
This is the first time the awards were presented in Barrie, and Hoggarth said she hopes to receive suggestions from the public for next years honourees.
"It would be great if we could get 10 at least," she said.
To learn more about the program, visit women.gov.on.ca
