Volunteer Achievement Awards
Our 2025 Winners
Kaylie Voutier
Cameron Filipchuk
Malcolm Mann
Jack Sandbrand
As Crohn’s and Colitis Canada has evolved, so has our volunteer program. Today, there are more ways than ever to get involved and make a meaningful impact on the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) community—through advocacy, education, fundraising, and quality-of-life initiatives.
To better reflect the diverse ways volunteers contribute, we’ve refreshed how we recognize their efforts. The Volunteer Achievement Awards celebrate individuals whose contributions embody our core organizational values:
Courageous – Be Gutsy Award
Presented to a volunteer who speaks up about IBD, embraces challenges, and brings bold new ideas to life.
How does this volunteer embody courage?
Inclusive - Be Open Award
Presented to a volunteer who fosters belonging and ensures every voice is heard in conversations and decisions around IBD.
How does this volunteer show inclusivity?
Authentic – Be Intentional Award
Presented to a volunteer who leads with honesty, empathy, and purpose—supporting others through the power of shared experience.
How does this volunteer reflect authenticity?
Collaborative – Do, Together Award
Presented to a volunteer who thrives in teamwork, engages with staff and peers, and helps drive success through collective effort.
How does this volunteer exemplify collaboration?
2025 Volunteer Achievement Award Recipients
Be Gutsy Award Winner: Kaylie Voutier
Kaylie is a fearless force within the Crohn’s and Colitis Canada community. As Chapter President and Gutsy Walk Chair, she leads with heart, creativity, and unwavering determination. Whether she's rallying supporters, crafting toilet paper dresses, or sharing her personal journey on stage, Kaylie lives out the spirit of courage every day.
"Volunteering with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada has helped me do things I never thought I would—let alone enjoy! From sharing my colitis journey at Northern MedTalks 2024 to winning a toilet paper dress fashion show, this experience has pushed me to embrace new challenges. I’ve realized that I want to keep advocating for awareness, and I’m proud to be making a difference."
Kaylie credits her incredible growth to the support of her staff partner, whose encouragement and shared passion helped guide her journey.
Congratulations, Kaylie! Thank you for being a gutsy, inspiring voice in the Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis community.
Be Intentional Award Winner: Cam Filipchuk
Cam is a trusted peer mentor, and steady presence in our digital support spaces. As a moderator on Crohn’s and Colitis Connect and a dedicated mentor to six individuals, he brings honesty, empathy, and perspective to everything he does. Through thoughtful dialogue and heartfelt support, Cam helps others feel seen, heard, and never alone.
"I thought I was volunteering to give back, but it’s had a huge impact on me too. Helping others has helped me navigate my own journey with IBD. I’m forever grateful."
Cam’s authenticity reminds us of the strength found in vulnerability and shared understanding.
Thank you, Cam, for being a grounding and intentional force in the community.
Be Open Award Winner: Malcolm Mann
Though Malcolm joined as a digital peer mentor just last year, his impact has been profound.
Since May 2024, he has ensured that every person he meets—especially those facing new diagnoses or treatment changes—feels welcomed and supported.
His dedication to the Crohn’s and Colitis Connect Welcome Committee is unmatched: he’s personally greeted over 40 new members, helping them feel at ease, ask questions, and find community from day one.
"Sharing what I’ve learned on my IBD journey has been so meaningful. Volunteering has been a rewarding experience, and I hope I've been able to support others along the way."
Malcolm’s warmth, openness, and sincere care have created a space where everyone feels they belong.
Thank you, Malcolm, for leading with inclusivity and compassion.
Do, Together Award Winner: Jack Sandbrand
At 80 years old and still working full-time, Jack is a model of generosity and team spirit.
As a long-time Saskatoon Chapter volunteer, he’s always ready to lend a hand—from planning events and donating auction items to helping with the Gutsy Walk (even while on vacation!).
His consistent presence, collaborative energy, and dedication to making everyone feel welcome have helped make each event more successful—and more joyful.
And did we mention? Jack is 80 years old, works full-time, and still finds time to give back! His energy and dedication are nothing short of inspiring.
"Volunteering for Crohn’s & Colitis Canada has been both rewarding and fun...we accomplished a lot—raising money and making a real difference."
Jack’s passion and commitment are a shining example of what it means to do this work together
Thank you, Jack, for your tireless efforts and incredible heart.
Past Receipients of the Volunteer Awards
Our volunteer awards, honoring outstanding contributions, now reflect even more ways volunteers make an impact. View past recipients of Crohn's and Colitis Canada's Volunteer Awards.