24 October 2025

WATERLOO, ON – October 24, 2025 – KidsAbility Foundation honoured extraordinary community leadership and generosity yesterday at its annual Gratitude Gathering, held in Benny’s Place at KidsAbility in Waterloo. The event brought together donors, volunteers, and partners to recognize those whose compassion continues to transform the way pediatric rehabilitation supports the lives of children and youth with disabilities and developmental delays across Waterloo Region and Guelph-Wellington.

The Elaine Ormston Outstanding Supporter Butterfly Award was established in 2003 and renamed in 2009 in honour of long-time volunteer and past Foundation Chair Elaine Ormston. The award recognizes extraordinary individuals and organizations whose volunteerism, advocacy, and generosity of time and talent embody the heart of KidsAbility’s purpose to foster possibility for the children, youth, and families we serve, creating a future filled with hope and opportunity.

Two community champions were honoured at this year’s Butterfly Award ceremony: Court Desautels and The Neighbourhood Group and Rotary Waterloo’s Golf Fore KidsAbility Classic Committee.

Court Desautels and The Neighbourhood Group, a family of B-Corp certified restaurants in Guelph and Waterloo Region, were recognized for over a decade of community leadership, raising more than $30,000 and contributing countless volunteer hours. From patio parties and cause-related campaigns to feeding thousands at KidsAbility’s former Superhero Run, the team’s partnership has made a lasting impact on children and families.

Also recognized was the Rotary Waterloo Golf Fore KidsAbility Classic Committee, which for 25 years has united community members and sponsors to raise over $900,000 in support of KidsAbility’s programs, equipment, and accessible spaces—including the fully accessible playground at KidsAbility in Waterloo.

This marks the first time a service club has received the Butterfly Award.

The evening also paid tribute to Lisa Talbot, Executive Director of KidsAbility Foundation, for 25 years of exceptional leadership. Lisa’s vision and dedication have inspired a culture of philanthropy and partnership that continues to expand KidsAbility’s reach and impact each year.

“Every child’s success story begins with a community that believes in them,” said Donna Kuppers, Chair of KidsAbility Foundation. “The impact of our donors, partners, and volunteers goes far beyond funding – it creates moments of joy, independence and possibility for every child. The people we honoured tonight are proof that when we come together with purpose, we truly can transform what’s possible.” 

Singer, songwriter and KidsAbility alumni Jeff Poolton performed a tribute song for the occasion. The 2025 KidsAbility Foundation Gratitude Gathering served as both a heartfelt thank-you and an inspiring reminder of what collective generosity can achieve. We are grateful for all who attended.