Richard Ferland is our latest Community Builder Award recipient!
On the morning of Thursday, May 1, more than 80 people gathered at Laroche Park, in Ottawa, for the launch of the fifth annual Move for Youth, in support of United Way East Ontario and Centraide Outaouais. Move for Youth is a free activity challenge with a mission to bring the community together and show up for kids when they need us most.
Speeches outlined the importance of supporting youth to keep kids inspired and learning, no matter where they grow up.
At United Way, we know that more than a third of kids in Ottawa, Grades 7 through 12, describe their mental health as fair or poor. We also know that more of them are turning to substances to cope and not nearly enough know where to turn for help.
But before kickstarting everyone’s step count with a walk of the Chief William Commanda Pedestrian Bridge, we had a surprise up our sleeve.
United Way East Ontario’s Senior Manager of Strategic Partnerships, Lorena Costa, alongside National Bank’s Stephane Duguay and Maxime Tessier, presented Richard Ferland with a Community Builder Award.
Not only did we surprise Richard with an award for championing youth, but we also worked with his family, in secret, to arrange their arrival during the presentation as an added surprise.
Richard’s dedication to helping young people build strong foundations for the future continues to inspire those around him and is a shining example of how one person’s passion can lead to meaningful, lasting change.
Richard Ferland
For the past five years, Richard has been a dedicated and passionate volunteer whose charisma, energy, and natural leadership have made a lasting impact on the Ottawa-Gatineau region.
A true “rassembleur,” Richard has a unique talent for bringing people together through his creativity, humour, and drive to support causes he deeply cares about. He’s played a key role in numerous community initiatives, including the CN Cycle for CHEO, Regroupement des gens d’affaires (RGA), and the G-10 program that supports entrepreneurs in growing their businesses and adapting to economic challenges.
But one of his most significant contributions to our community was the creation of Move for Youth, a fundraising initiative launched in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. When National Bank identified the challenges face by vulnerable youth at that time, Richard led efforts to partner with United Way East Ontario and Centraide Outaouais to make a difference.
Under his leadership, Move for Youth has become a symbol of community spirit, unity, and generosity. Over the last five years, the campaign has raised an astounding $331,304 in support of youth. Whether it’s rallying his team, motivating others—including his wife—to give their all, or reminding everyone that “it takes a village,” Richard has been the heart of this effort.
Richard’s unwavering dedication to helping young people build strong foundations for the future continues to inspire those around him. His positive spirit, community-first mindset, and tireless advocacy have helped strengthen the region’s social fabric.
Do you know a volunteer who has gone above and beyond to support their community?
Our Community Builder Awards program accepts nominations year-round!
