Top 7 Over 70: Nominations Now Open for New Awards Program Celebrating Older Adults
Guelph, Ontario, April 1, 2026. Nominations are now open for the Top 7 Over 70 Awards, a unique recognition program celebrating seven individuals who continue to make significant and lasting contributions to their communities well after the age of 70.
The Top 7 Over 70 Awards shine a spotlight on community members who defy age noms and prove that passion, purpose, and influence do not diminish with time. Rather than looking back on a lifetime of achievements, these awards celebrate what’s happening now — celebrating individuals who are still learning, taking on new challenges, and having a real impact in our community.
“We are truly excited to see the breadth of individuals nominated for the Top 7 Over 70 Awards”, said Glenna Banda, executive director, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin. “Guelph Wellington & Dufferin are home to so many inspiring people making a difference and we look forward to celebrating ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”
Eligible nominees must be 70 years of age or older and reside in Guelph, Wellington County, or Dufferin County. While nominations may draw on the past experiences of the nominee, this is not a lifetime achievement award and nominations should reflect a fresh perspective, a renewed focus, or an exciting venture into new or unfamiliar territory after turning 70. Accomplishments can take place in a wide range of areas including health and recreation, arts and culture, science, business, non-profit, environment, overcoming adversity or making a difference.
The Nominations package can be found at www.unitedwayguelph.com/top7over70 Nominations can be submitted online, by email or mail. Each nomination must be accompanied by two Letters of Support from individuals who know the nominee. All nominations must be received by Friday May 29, 2026.
Top 7 Over 70 winners will be announced at a celebration event in October 2026. Funds raised from the Top 7 Over 70 Awards will support United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin. United Way invests in a diverse list of community programs and services that help over 145,000 people in our local community meet their basic needs, access resources and build a brighter future.
If you are interested in sponsoring the event, or volunteering, please contact United Way at 519-821-0571 or colleen@unitedwaygwd.com
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For over 85 years, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin has worked to improve lives and build community. We invest in smart, strategic ways to move the needle on some of our community’s most complex issues like poverty, food and housing insecurity and mental health, and respond to existing and emerging needs by bringing organizations and people together to mobilize ideas and actions. Donations to United Way are accepted year-round, by visiting us online at unitedwaygwd.com or by calling the United Way office 519-821-0571. 100% of donations make an impact in Guelph, Wellington & Dufferin. For more information, please visit unitedwaygwd.com
For more information:
Glenna Banda, Executive Director
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin
226-326-0237 glenna@unitedwaygwd.com
Colleen Murdoch, Director, Community Engagement & Impact
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin
226-326-0233 colleen@unitedwaygwd.com