Jessica Coriat, with (L to R) her parents, David and Lynn Coriat, and The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, at Canada’s Volunteer Awards in Ottawa. (Photo: Toronto Rehab Foundation)
With a passion for volunteering and improving the lives of others, it is no surprise that 25-year-old Toronto Rehab Foundation volunteer Jessica Coriat was one of 16 award winners honoured at a special ceremony in Ottawa as a regional recipient of Canada's Volunteer Awards 2016.
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development last week presented Jessica with the Community Leader award; nominees in this category are recognized for making exceptional contributions to improve the well-being of individuals and families.
Jessica's story
Born with Cerebral Palsy and Scoliosis, Jessica has been a dynamic advocate in changing the way those living with disability are understood and treated – never allowing her physical challenges to hold her back.
Jessica volunteers with the Toronto Rehab Foundation and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, supporting patients, staff and families, and encouraging community engagement.
Jessica has contributed her time to advocating for more accessible spaces on UHN's Accessibility Transforming Patient Rights Board, and she was also a member of the TTC Mobility Board, working to improve accessibility for public transit.
Recognizing community leadership
The Prime Minister's Volunteer Awards program highlights best practices in community leadership and encourages partnerships across sectors. The goal of the awards is to inspire Canadians from all walks of life to find new ways of making a difference in their communities.
Click here to read the full press release.
