Dianne Cardin Volunteer of the Year 2022

Dianne Cardin has been involved with MHI from the beginning in 2002 – at that time she was Minister at Barrhaven United Church, which was one of the first church members of MHI. She retired from full time ministry in 2009 and now serves as a short-term supply minister. 

Dianne’s very active involvement with MHI began with The Haven.  She engaged the Ottawa Presbytery of the United Church in fundraising $100,000 to aid in building The Haven. This involved encouraging United churches in the Ottawa area to make donations to MHI and the goal of $100,000 was exceeded largely due to Dianne’s efforts. 

After The Haven welcomed its first tenants, Dianne continued to donate her time and energy to MHI by championing many of The Haven programs which continue today. These include assisting with the community BBQ, The Haven’s Free Shopping Days, and supporting the variety of religious celebrations - in particular the Christmas celebration at The Haven. Through her community connections, Dianne found a business to donate toys each year to residents of both The Haven and Blake House at Christmas. As well, due to her efforts and leadership, churches in Barrhaven and surrounding areas collectively bake cookies for distribution to each household at The Haven for Christmas.  

Dianne actively fundraised for Veterans’ House Canada: the Andy Carswell Building.  As a representative on the Eastern Ontario Outaouais Regional Council of the United Church of Canada, she initiated the United Church Region Quilts for Veterans’ House project. She also gave leadership to the United We Stand worship service, encouraging congregations in the area to contribute to the $150,000 “United We Stand” fundraising campaign. This goal was also exceeded.

In 2020, Dianne joined the Membership and Outreach Committee and has provided excellent advice and insight regarding MOC’s activities.  Also, in 2020, the MHI Board was pleased to appoint Dianne as Religious Patron. 
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Dianne has been a long-time supporter, volunteer, and donor and we recognize her legacy to MHI and generosity of spirit through the Gay Richardson Volunteer of the Year Award for 2022. 

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