Daniel (Danny) Spagnolo is the latest recipient of United Way East Ontario’s Community Builder Award (CBA), recognized for his dedication to helping people with disabilities access real opportunities to work, belong, and thrive in our communities.
On April 17, more than 170 people gathered at LiveWorkPlay’s Make a Buzz Ottawa event to celebrate the individuals, organizations, and businesses supporting inclusive communities and workplaces.
During the event’s “Breaking News” segment, the crowd buzzed with anticipation as United Way volunteer recognition team member, Dylan Black was called to the stage. Following a cheerful, crowd‑created drum roll, Danny was surprised with his CBA.
Daniel Spagnolo
For more than a decade, Danny Spagnolo has been a steady and committed presence in Ottawa’s inclusive employment movement, volunteering his time, expertise, and leadership to help ensure people with disabilities have real opportunities to work, belong, and thrive.
Danny volunteers with LiveWorkPlay, a community organization that helps people with intellectual disabilities and autism find meaningful employment, build friendships, and live independently in Ottawa.
Danny’s journey with LiveWorkPlay began as a founding member of its Employment Task Force, where he helped establish the Federal Employment
Strategy Group. The group brings together federal managers, human resource professionals, and community partners to expand inclusive hiring practices across the public service. His efforts have contributed to the hiring of 230 people with disabilities across more than 40 federal departments, including permanent public service positions. This milestone was recently highlighted in testimony before the Senate Committee on Human Rights.
Beyond his systems-level work, Danny has brought the same dedication to LiveWorkPlay’s governance, serving on its Board of Directors for a decade, including multiple years as Board Chair.
Colleagues describe him as a thoughtful, collaborative leader—someone who listens carefully, asks the right questions, and keeps the organization’s mission at the heart of every decision.
Whether guiding strategic direction in the boardroom or representing LiveWorkPlay in the community, Danny helps turn policy and planning into real jobs, belonging, and opportunity—opening doors that too many people have found closed for far too long.
United Way thanks Danny for his commitment to a more inclusive Ottawa, and for the lasting impact his leadership will continue to have on generations of people who deserve the chance to contribute and belong.
Do you know a volunteer who has gone above and beyond to support their community?
Our Community Builder Awards program accepts nominations year-round!
