Volunteer Achievement Awards
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.
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 demonstrate 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?
Announcing Our 2026 Award Winners
We are proud to recognize the exceptional individuals selected as our 2026 Volunteer Achievement Award recipients. These volunteers demonstrate courage, inclusivity, authenticity, and collaboration in everything they do.
Through their dedication, leadership, and passion, they have made a meaningful difference in the lives of people affected by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis across Canada. Their contributions continue to strengthen our community and bring us closer to our Promise of finding cures and improving lives.
- Be Gutsy Award Recipient: Carol Hughes
Congratulations to Carol Hughes, the recipient of the Courageous - Be Gutsy Award! This award recognizes her 20 years of outstanding volunteer service with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada
A bold advocate and passionate leader, Carol brings innovative ideas to life, fosters inclusivity, and creates a space where those living with Crohn’s or colitis feel seen, heard, and valued. Her dedication, integrity, and compassion inspire volunteers and the broader community alike.
"With the support of the Crohn’s and Colitis Canada community, I have the guts to continue advocating for those impacted by IBD."
- Be Open Award Recipient: Peter Dobranowski
Cheers to Peter Dobranowski, the recipient of the Inclusive - Be Open Award! This award recognizes his outstanding contributions to the Ottawa Crohn’s and colitis community.
A cornerstone volunteer, Peter consistently supports initiatives like the Ottawa Gutsy Walk and chapter activities, fostering inclusivity through openness, respect, and collaboration. His reliability, kindness, and dedication make him an essential part of building strong, welcoming teams.
"Volunteering with Crohn's and Colitis Canada has given me a community to rally with—to strive for cures, share inspiration, and know we're not alone."
- Be Intentional Award Recipient: Cyanne Nisbett
Cyanne Nisbett, recipient of the Authentic - Be Intentional Award, is an inspiring mentor and volunteer with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. Known for her genuine care and excellent listening skills, Cyanne creates a safe space for her mentees to share their experiences and challenges with Crohn’s or colitis.
Through her authenticity, vulnerability, and positivity, she demonstrates that it’s possible to live an active and healthy life despite the obstacles IBD can present, inspiring everyone she connects with.
"I have gone through waves of acceptance in the 18 years since my Crohn's diagnosis. But it wasn't until my involvement as a volunteer that I truly began to practice what I preach—let go of shame, laugh about gross symptoms, advocate for myself, and give myself grace. Volunteering unexpectedly healed me in the way I originally hoped it would heal others, and I got to meet beautiful people while doing it."
- Do, Together Award Recipient: Alysia Whiteside
Congratulations to Alysia, the recipient of the Collaborative - Do, Together Award! This award recognizes her extraordinary dedication and selfless leadership within the Crohn’s and colitis community.
Even during challenging times, Alysia ensures programs like the Simcoe County Gutsy Walk run smoothly by proactively planning, coordinating volunteers, and fostering a supportive environment. Her empathy, reliability, and commitment inspire trust and strengthen our community.
"Having personally experienced the ebbs and flows of severe, medically refractory ulcerative colitis—including multiple surgeries and now life with a permanent ileostomy—it’s shaped my understanding of suffering and the need for community. Serving with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada has given that experience purpose. It has deepened my compassion for others navigating chronic illness, and it’s an honour to work alongside others in building a community that brings encouragement and understanding in the midst of hard realities."
Past Recipients 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.