Rita Ristucci is the 2024 Ward 3 Civic Hero!
During tonight’s Committee of the Whole (Public Meeting), Mayor Steven Del Duca, Ward 3 Councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca and Members of Council recognized Rita Ristucci as the 2024 Ward 3 Civic Hero with a special ceremonial presentation.
For more than 30 years, Rita has been dedicated to advocating for individuals with exceptional abilities. Inspired by her own experience as a mother to a son with Down syndrome, she has worked hard to foster a world of inclusion to help break down stereotypes.
Rita serves on the Board of Directors for the Meta Foundation, an organization that provides housing, services and programs for individuals with developmental disabilities. Her efforts have helped showcase the unique talents and strengths of the people in the Meta Foundation’s care.
For the past 13 years, Rita has led a passionate team that organizes an annual event in support of the Meta Centre and Meta Foundation. Her leadership has contributed to the continued growth and success of this event.
QUOTES
“As Mayor, one of my greatest joys is celebrating the incredible work of our residents who truly make Vaughan a better place. Today, we recognize Rita Ristucci with the Ward 3 Civic Hero Award for her outstanding contributions to make our city more inclusive. From her own lived experience to serving on the Board of Directors at the Meta Foundation, Rita has dedicated her time and energy to lift up people of all abilities and help them thrive. She is an inspiration to us all and reminds us what we can achieve if we all work towards a common goal. We are very grateful for all the work Rita has done and continues to do for Vaughan. Congratulations, Rita, on receiving the 2024 Ward 3 Civic Hero Award!”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
“I am so honoured to present Rita Ristucci with the 2024 Ward 3 Civic Hero Award. For more than 30 years, she has been an advocate for individuals of all abilities and has worked hard to make the Ward 3 community one we can all be proud to call home. She is driven by her own experience as a mother, and her passion and dedication shine through in everything she does for the Meta Foundation and beyond. Congratulations, Rita, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for all you do!”
- Councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca, Ward 3
QUICK FACTS
- Vaughan’s Civic Hero Awards are presented annually to one resident from each of the city’s five wards.
- Recipients are nominated by their Local Councillor and acknowledged by Vaughan Council.
- The awards began in 2005 to recognize outstanding achievements and individual contributions to the community.
LEARN MORE
