Verna Hibbert, Windermere on the Mount – RHRA’s 2025 Resident Champion Award Recipient
Nominated by the Residents’ Council at Windermere on the Mount, Verna Hibbert is a shining example of what it means to be a Resident Champion. Verna’s fellow residents describe her as someone who has gone above and beyond the normal expectations of seniors who live in communal settings, thinking deeply about her role as a community leader. Verna has been at the forefront of creating several thoughtful traditions that have helped other residents feel recognized and cherished. Growing up in rural Ontario, Verna appreciates how important it is for people to feel like they belong in their local community. She actively helps new residents feel comfortable in group settings by sharing a meal in the dining room, offering guidance and inviting them to turn to her should they have any questions. She strives to make everyone feel included through her established tradition of sending birthday cards to every resident and decorating her door for holidays and seasonal changes. Verna’s quiet leadership, compassion and action make her more than a resident – she is a builder of belonging and a true champion in every sense.
Uma Kumariah, Scarborough Retirement Resident – RHRA’s 2025 Resident Champion Award Recipient
Uma Kumariah’s home at Scarborough Retirement Residence describes her as a beacon of kindness, a champion of diversity, and a tireless advocate for inclusion. Her positive spirit and unwavering dedication leave a lasting impression on everyone she encounters. Her efforts to spread kindness is evident in the many ways she uplifts those around her, whether it‘s through volunteering in the home’s tuck shop or simply offering a compassionate listening ear. Among Uma’s many admirable qualities is her commitment to celebrating cultural diversity. She plays a pivotal role in helping to organize several multicultural programs, educational workshops, and heritage celebrations, each one fostering a sense of togetherness and understanding. Uma’s leadership is rooted in inclusivity and empathy. She makes sure that every voice is heard, every story is valued and actively works to create welcoming spaces for all. Uma embodies the spirit of a true champion. Her values and actions remind us of the power of empathy and the profound importance of human connection.
George Allison, George Allison Rosewood RVilla Senior Living
George Allison has been known throughout his life, and his time at Rosewood RVilla Senior Living, for his integrity, warmth and dedication to helping others. Quickly becoming a vital part of his retirement home community, he believes in empowering others by helping them stay informed about their rights so they can live with security and dignity. George’s advocacy can be described as thoughtful, respectful and grounded in compassion. Beyond his leadership and advocacy, George has also helped transform the physical space around the retirement home. His love of gardening has led to creating an inviting space for residents to relax and connect with nature. George’s practice and respectful approach, paired with a genuine passion for improving experiences for others, continues to inspire everyone around him.
Rose Bolton, Rosewood Senior Living
Rose Bolton is gifted with a positive, encouraging spirit and continuously motivates everyone she interacts with at Rosewood Senior Living. Her big smile and joyful stride show that she’s always ready to lend a helping hand. In addition to her positive spirit, Rose is a gifted and creative person, and often helps create many craft projects and themed decorations for events. Prior to Rose moving into Rosewood Senior Living, she contributed to many organizations in the community and continues with these open-handed acts when the opportunity arises. For example, the community often visits the home to play games, socialize or educate residents. Rose is always there to welcome and thank the guests, and helps to set up and clean up after events.
Jessie Dorscht, Heritage River Retirement Home
Jessie Dorscht has always been outgoing, friendly and a very active participant at Heritage River Retirement Home. During her time, she has been a mentor, a volunteer and a helper to all residents. When a new resident arrives, Jessie is the first one to offer her support, taking them around the building and working alongside them until they are comfortable in their new surroundings. To further their welcome, Jessie will take residents to their meals and activities, and spends quality time with them while introducing them to other residents. On top of mentoring new residents, Jessie also volunteers at the homes’ tuck shop. She meets everything and everyone with a positive attitude and a warm smile.
Susie Harper, FoxRun by the River Retirement Residence
Susie Harper has been a resident at FoxRun by the River Retirement Residence since 2018. Coming from the local Gananoque community and throughout her career, she has become well acquainted with many of the locals and their families, allowing a seamless transition to retirement living. Upon her arrival, she immediately began looking for areas where she could contribute. For example, every month, with resident and staff birthdays, she makes sure that everyone receives a signed birthday card and leads a chorus of ‘Happy Birthday’ in the dining room. For residents who may be too shy to speak up, they know that they can trust Susie to help advocate for them and bring attention to any concerns they may have. r
Theresa Koesller, Ashley Oaks Retirement Residence
Theresa Koesller was one of the first residents to join Ashley Oaks Retirement Residence, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the community. During the home’s grand opening, Theresa dedicated a spontaneous and heartfelt speech that set the tone for the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that makes up the home today. Her compelling spirit quickly spread among fellow residents, consistently encouraging everyone to push their limits, especially in the fitness program. Her unparalleled enthusiasm for movement and fitness has resulted in the expansion of the homes fitness program. As an active participant, Theresa encourages everyone around her to stay committed to their fitness goals, helping to improve the physical health of her fellow residents and foster a sense of community and camaraderie.
Candice O’Connell, Orchard Walk Retirement Living
Candice O’Connell has been a major contributor to Orchard Walk Retirement Living in more ways than one. As the founding member of Orchard Walk’s Garden Club, Candice played an instrumental role in getting donations of material and tools needed to help maintain their garden. She often can be found during the evenings and weekends mentoring young volunteers at the home and in the garden. Candice’s efforts provide much more than fresh flowers, as her initiatives in the gardens give residents a space to enjoy the sunshine and wildlife. With many residents coming from rural backgrounds, the small act of maintaining the outdoor space, encourages a strong sense of community among her fellow residents. Candice embodies the spirit of a resident champion through her kind actions, compassion and genuine care for everyone she encounters.
Marlene Sampson, Muskoka Landing Retirement Lodge
Marlene Sampson exemplifies leadership through compassion, tireless advocacy for fellow residents and a commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community within Muskoka Landing Retirement Lodge. Whether she’s helping new residents feel welcome, running errands for neighbours, or lifting spirits with her quick wit and smile, Marlene is the kind of person who brings people together. As an active participant in community activities, Marlene encourages other residents to stay active, connected and provides informal support that helps to enhance the overall wellbeing in the home. She is a catalyst for connection, demonstrating what it means to live with empathy, respect and humanity. Her legacy is one of quiet leadership, unwavering kindness and the belief that every day is an opportunity to help someone else feel at home.
Diane Tweedy, Appleby Place
Moving into Appleby Place two and half years ago, Diane Tweedy has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the community from the moment she arrived. Diane is described as a remarkable individual, a caring friend and a true pillar of Appleby place. Diane takes tremendous pride in assisting with maintaining the gardens, keeping them beautifully planted and setting out cushions for the courtyard seating for other to enjoy. If anyone is sitting alone, Diane warmly invites them into her circle and will bring cold drinks and snacks for everyone to enjoy. When the home hosts entertainment nights, Diane can be found lending a helping hand, making sure everyone finds a seat and helping performers where needed.. Her everyday acts of generosity and care create a ripple effect of warmth, hospitality and belonging. Diane doesn’t just live at Appleby Place, she helps make it feel like home for everyone.