An inspiring evening of gratitude, storytelling, and community proves that age is no barrier to making a difference
Guelph, Ontario, November 5, 2026. It was an evening filled with standing ovations, heartfelt stories, laughter, and inspiration as United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin celebrated the inaugural Top 7 Over 70 Awards last Thursday, honouring seven extraordinary older adults whose continued contributions are helping shape stronger, more vibrant communities across Guelph, Wellington County, and Dufferin County.
The event brought together community leaders, family members, friends, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters to recognize seven individuals who continue to lead, serve, mentor, advocate, and inspire well beyond the age of 70. Together, attendees also helped raise more than $24,000 to support programs and services that help older adults stay connected, engaged, and involved in community life.
Each one of the recipients was nominated by members of our community because they continue to lead, serve, create, mentor, advocate, and inspire. As everyone in attendance heard last week, these seven remarkable individuals remind us that leadership, generosity, passion, and community impact do not retire.
The inaugural Top 7 Over 70 recipients were:
- Charlie Barnes, athlete, fundraiser, mentor, and volunteer whose passion for active living and giving back continues to inspire others.
- Anne Day, community connector, mentor, advocate, and publisher who brings people together and strengthens communities through collaboration and inclusion.
- Bob McCabe, founder of the Recovery Speaking Initiative whose courage, compassion, and advocacy have helped others find hope and healing.
- Rich Moccia, volunteer leader, mentor, lifelong learner, and environmental steward whose generosity and service enrich our region.
- Jim Rooney, educator, coach, author, and mentor who continues to encourage leadership, teamwork, and belonging.
- Liz Sandals, former public servant and dedicated community volunteer whose retirement years have been marked by extraordinary service and leadership.
- Earlla Vickers, psychotherapist, mentor, volunteer, and advocate whose energy, compassion, and commitment continue to touch countless lives
“The room was filled with joy, admiration and gratitude for these seven incredible individuals,” said Glenna Banda, executive director, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin. “Each recipient reminded us that there is no expiration date on purpose, generosity, leadership, or community impact. Their stories moved us, inspired us, and challenged us to think differently about aging.”
The Top 7 Over 70 program is a growing movement across Canada. Started in Calgary in 2017, by community leader and philanthropist Jim Gray, these awards celebrate something unique & important: while many awards celebrate lifetime achievement, few shine a spotlight on people who continue starting new chapters, launching new initiatives, and making major contributions after age 70. Since then, the program has expanded across Canada, and Guelph, Wellington, Dufferin proudly join that growing movement with not only the first Top 7 Over 70 awards night in our community, but the first event in Ontario!
The success of the inaugural Top 7 Over 70 Awards would not have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors and community partners. United Way extends its heartfelt thanks to Triumph Tool Ltd., Tricar, Right At Home, RLB, Magic 106 & Guelph Today, along with many others whose support helped create a memorable evening of celebration while investing in programs that help older adults remain active, connected, and engaged. Their commitment to building a caring and inclusive community made this event possible.
While the night might be over, the stories shared throughout the evening will leave a lasting impression.
“This evening showed us all that some of life’s most meaningful contributions happen later in life,” added Banda. “Our recipients’ passion, resilience, wisdom, and commitment to others are gifts to our community. We are proud to celebrate them and grateful for the example they continue to set for all of us.”
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