Volunteer week

April 19 - april 25

Each year, MHI recognizes individuals whose dedication, leadership, and generosity strengthen our communities in meaningful ways. In 2026, we are proud to present the 2025 Volunteer of the Year awards to an extraordinary group of community leaders.

Crystal Sauvé - 2025 Tenant Volunteer of the Year
Crystal Sauvé has been an integral part of the Fine Crescent and Meadowbrook community for many years. Crystal and her children Andrey, Alyvia, Avery, and Amelia are a powerful force for connection, care, and community spirit.

For years, Crystal has stepped up in countless ways. She advocates for her neighbours, shares resources, supports and guides youth, and leads community clean ups. The list truly goes on. She is a deeply caring neighbour who looks out for the well being of fellow tenants and their families.

Since the MHI and Gloucester amalgamation, Crystal has taken on the role of community champion. She coordinates weekly food distribution as part of the food security program, ensuring her neighbours have access to essential groceries. This work is labour intensive and time consuming, yet she shows up every single week without hesitation and never asks for anything in return.

Crystal truly embodies community spirit and reflects our guiding principle of “nothing for us without us.” Her impact is lasting and deeply appreciated.

Christian Kratchanov - 2025 Gay Richardson Volunteer of the Year
Christian Kratchanov has made an outstanding contribution to MHI through more than six years of service as a Board member and Treasurer. He continues to give his time and expertise through the Finance Committee and Governance Committee.

Christian’s steady leadership and strong financial background have strengthened MHI’s governance and supported responsible financial stewardship. His thoughtful guidance has helped advance the organization’s mission and ensure long term stability.

His integrity, commitment, and generosity have left a meaningful and lasting mark on MHI.

Shirley Siegel - 2025 Gay Richardson Volunteer of the Year
Since joining MHI’s Governance and Human Resources Committee, Shirley Siegel has become an indispensable contributor. She has provided steady, thoughtful guidance on compensation system design and many other governance and HR matters, supporting the Board and Executive through significant organizational decisions.

Shirley brings extensive executive and human resources expertise from senior leadership roles in the Federal Public Service and international institutions including the IMF and the United Nations. Her professionalism, insight, and dedication have strengthened MHI in lasting ways and helped ensure the organization remains a leader in Ottawa’s nonprofit housing sector.

Bijan Safi - 2025 Gay Richardson Volunteer of the Year
As both an MHI Board member and Chair of the Properties Committee, Bijan Safi played a key role in strengthening MHI’s property management framework.

His leadership guided the development of long term asset planning, preventive maintenance strategies, and professional standards that will support MHI communities for years to come. Bijan’s vision and dedication have created a strong foundation that will benefit tenants well into the future.

His commitment and expertise leave an enduring legacy.

Want to Get Involved?

If Crystal, Christian, Shirley, or Bijan have inspired you, why not join in? Whether you are interested in supporting community programs, serving on a committee, sharing your professional expertise, or helping strengthen affordable housing in Ottawa, there is a volunteer opportunity for you at MHI.

Visit www.multifaithhousing.ca/volunteer to learn more and sign up.