Celebrating Mothers as Role Models and Change Leaders

The mothers in our HIPPY program inspire us daily with their commitment and determination.

They are...

Strong and courageous

Role models for their children and families

Catalyst for change within their communities

Honouring Three Outstanding Mothers 

We celebrate these women’s every day — yet extraordinary — achievements with our annual Because Mothers Matter Awards. On May 8, 2019, we hosted our fifth Because Mothers Matter Awards in Toronto, ON. The awards were presented to three extraordinary mothers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

An Inspirational Model for Women in Business

The first honouree of the night was Elyse Allan, the former President and CEO of GE Canada. While accepting the award, Elyse asked of the evening’s attendees to tell stories of HIPPY and its impact in the GTA. She also encouraged them to spread the word of Mothers Matter Canada and HIPPY well after the evening ends.

Two Women Who Embody the Courage and Determination of HIPPY Families

We also honoured two exceptional mothers from the HIPPY program, Athena Yu and Fernanda Bueno. The evening’s program had a slight change as Fernanda was unable to join us at the reception. She had welcomed her second child (early!) the day before the Awards. Sierra Henry, her HIPPY Site Coordinator, represented Fernanda throughout the evening.

Sierra Henry

Athena and Sierra both spoke from their hearts of the obstacles they have had to overcome as single newcomer mothers. They described how their HIPPY Home Visitors became integral parts of their lives. They spoke to how their HIPPY Home Visitors and other HIPPY mothers became their support systems when their families’ were struggling and they felt alone.

Athena Yu

A Very Succesful Evening

Approximately 100 guests joined us for the celebration in downtown Toronto. They enjoyed a silent auction, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and inspiring speeches. There was great conversation around the HIPPY program and the impact it is having locally in the GTA.

Thank you to everyone who attended, our Awards sponsors, our silent auction donors, and most importantly, our honourees for sharing their stories of inspiration. The evening raised nearly $30,000 for Mothers Matter Canada, HIPPY Oakville, and Working Women Community Centre.

Every donation to Mothers Matter Canada makes a difference in the lives of women like Athena and Fernanda.

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