The Ontario government is celebrating the exceptional contributions of professionals, organizations, and volunteers committed to supporting crime victims. The Attorney General’s Victim Services Awards of Distinction appreciate dedicated individuals who raise awareness of victims’ issues in Ontario and uplift people who have experienced victimization due to crime.
Eva Zachary, Bracebridge
As the respected executive director of Muskoka Victim Services, Eva Zachary has dedicated over 15 years to supporting victims of crime. She is a caring leader who has collaborated with community partners to build bridges and improve victim support. Eva is a member of the Domestic Violence Death Review Committee with the Office of the Chief Coroner and the Ontario Association Chiefs of Police – Victim Assistance Committee. She recently received the 2024 Victims and Survivors of Crime Week Excellence Award and was nominated for a YWCA Muskoka Women of Distinction Award.
“Eva’s impactful leadership and commitment to our community is truly inspiring,” said Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka, “It’s people like Eva that make our riding strong and resilient.”
Alan Bostakian, Barrie
Also receiving the esteemed award is Barrie’s Dr. Alan Bostakian. As the visionary director of the Intelligent Change Management Think Tank for Human Rights, Dr. Bostakian has made a meaningful impact on the lives of victims of crime and terrorism. He has done significant research on identifying the root causes of peoples’ hesitancy to support victims of crime and terrorism. Alan has also organized large events to raise awareness of human rights and speaks at numerous conferences. As a member of its board of directors, he has shared his expertise on change leadership with the Phoenix Project, a non-political think tank in the U.S.
Nancy Horan, Sudbury
As a clinical manager at Health Sciences North, Nancy Horan has dedicated more than half of her 40-year nursing career to supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse. She is Canada’s first forensic pediatric nurse examiner and the passionate founder of Voices for Women – Sudbury Sexual Assault Centre. Nancy has also established a pediatric sexual assault program at Health Sciences North. Her support and advocacy have made a lasting difference to many victims and survivors.
Chris and Sarah Whaley, Orillia
Chris and Sarah Whaley are the dedicated caregivers of Moose and Marion, the much-loved facility dogs at the Child & Youth Advocacy Centre Simcoe Muskoka. This “dynamic duo” canine team is specially trained to assist young people coping with trauma – offering comfort, reducing anxiety and promoting healing through their companionship. Chris and Sarah also work to raise awareness of the therapeutic benefits of facility dogs within the community, inspiring others to consider innovative approaches to victim support.
Matawa Education and Care Centre Safe Sobering Site, Thunder Bay
The Matawa Safe Sobering Site, established in response to the Seven Youth Inquest recommendations, is a critical facility for vulnerable Indigenous youth. It provides a safe, non-judgmental environment that promotes healing and recovery and addresses challenges faced by remote First Nations youth navigating urban environments. Collaborating with Thunder Bay organizations, Indigenous groups and health systems, the Matawa Safe Sobering Site delivers comprehensive, individualized support through a nationally acclaimed and innovative model.
Justice Advisory Steering Committee, Nokiiwin Tribal Council, Thunder Bay
The Nokiiwin Tribal Council Justice Advisory Steering Committee (JASC) is recognized for its exemplary leadership, innovation and commitment to supporting victims through its Indigenous Victim Services (IVS) program. In the Thunder Bay community, the JASC has fostered impactful collaborations, increased public awareness of domestic violence and human trafficking and implemented culturally appropriate initiatives such as healing circles and the Hiking for the Health of It program. Their efforts have improved access to resources and justice for local victims and survivors of gender-based violence.
