Community Builders Awards: This year’s Unsung Hero is first in line to help others

Making people’s lives better and brighter is what brings Ellen Faulkner joy.

Faulkner is an active volunteer, known for her devotion to helping members of the North Bay community.

She has spent many years volunteering with organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity North Bay and the Salvation Army, helping out in any way she can.

One of her more notable acts of selflessness has been launching the annual TP North Bay drive. After noticing that local food banks did not have enough toilet paper for those in need, Faulkner decided to start a toilet paper drive, managing to enlist the support of helpers, businesses and grocery stores.

Because of her efforts, TP North Bay has delivered over 20,000 rolls of toilet paper to various local food banks.

“I am in shock and honoured to receive this award. It makes me think back to how long I have had the itch of fundraising for our community,” Faulkner said when she was told about her Community Builders Award win in the Unsung Hero category. 

“I'm very pleased and humbled to be selected. There are so many people in North Bay that do extraordinary things for our community,” she added. 

It’s safe to say that Faulkner’s outstanding contributions to the community have not gone unnoticed by her peers.

“I have known Ellen since 2012, when she was doing fundraising for the Salvation Army,” said Angela Johnston, office assistant at the Davedi Club. “I have come to know how big of a heart she has when it comes to others.”

“Ellen inspires others to get involved in making our community a better place. Her enthusiasm and energy is evident in everything she takes on,” Johnston said. 

“It’s very touching to be recognized by the community. Although we don't do volunteer work for recognition, we do receive a lot of gratification when we volunteer and make life better for another person,” Faulkner shared.

The Unsung Hero award is presented to an individual or group whose tireless work and/or volunteer efforts in our community seek to improve the lives of others. The recipient has created a positive impact in our community both now and for the future.

Congratulations, Ellen!

This award is proudly sponsored by DKB Financial Services Group Inc.