Sarah Pellegrini named 2023 Ward 1 Civic Hero
During tonight’s Committee of the Whole (Public Meeting), Mayor Steven Del Duca, Ward 1 Councillor Marilyn Iafrate and Members of Council recognized Sarah Pellegrini as the 2023 Ward 1 Civic Hero with a special ceremonial presentation.
Sarah Pellegrini has been involved with the Vaughan Soccer Club for more than 25 years. She’s been a player, a coach, a part time employee, but her biggest impact is serving as the Director of the All-Abilities Program. This innovative program makes soccer available to children between the ages of five and 18 years old with special needs completely free of charge. Sarah plays an integral role supporting the program and its participants through mentoring program volunteers, raising donations, delivering sponsorships and being the program’s biggest cheerleader.
In collaboration with City of Vaughan staff, Sarah obtained a $20,000 grant from the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association. This exciting award enhanced the program by providing funding, new equipment and support for a year-end event.
QUOTES
“Vaughan’s Civic Hero Awards recognize outstanding individual achievements and highlight the remarkable people who are truly the heart of our city. Every year, we present a civic hero award to one resident from each of the city’s five wards. These award recipients are making our city a better place to live, work and play. Sarah Pellegrini has been making a positive difference to our community for more than two decades. Her work with the All-Abilities program is changing lives, and supports the City’s goal of building a vibrant, diverse, inclusive and equity-based community for all. We are so grateful for all she’s doing for Vaughan and are proud to recognize her as the 2023 Ward 1 Civic Hero.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
“For more than 25 years, Sarah Pellegrini has been making our city a better place to live. Whether she’s playing, coaching or serving as Director of the All-Abilities program, Sarah continues her meaningful support of the development of the Vaughan Soccer Club as one of the best in Ontario. The All-Abilities program is a model for other organizations, and Sarah has done an incredible job building its capacity and creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for kids with special needs. Thank you, Sarah, for all that you do and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!”
- Councillor Marilyn Iafrate, Ward 1
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.
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