Founders' Award

Each year at the World Alzheimer Day Breakfast, the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County (ASWE) gives out the Founders' Award.

forget me nots

The Founders’ Award recognizes an individual, organization, business, or community group that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing the mission, sustainability, and community presence of the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County (ASWE). It honours a champion whose sustained leadership, generosity and commitment have strengthened ASWE and enhanced the lives of those affected by dementia in our community.

Nomination Criteria 

Nominees should demonstrate excellence in one or more of the following areas:

1. Sustained Commitment

  • Ongoing involvement over time (not limited to a single event or donation)
  • Demonstrated year-round support or long-term partnership
  • Sustained engagement with the Society while navigating the responsibilities of caregiving

2. Meaningful Impact

  • Contributed significantly to revenue generation, program delivery, client services, or organizational sustainability
  • Helped expand reach, awareness, or access to services in Windsor-Essex
  • Positively influenced other families through peer support, mentorship, or shared lived experience

3. Leadership and Initiative

  • Took initiative in launching or strengthening an event, campaign, partnership, or program
  • Inspired others to become involved
  • Acted as an ambassador for the Society
  • Demonstrated leadership by advocating for improved supports, speaking publicly about dementia, or helping reduce stigma

4. Advocacy and Public Awareness/Political Engagement

  • Actively promoted understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
  • Helped reduce stigma and increase community engagement
  • Advanced public education efforts
  • Elevated recognition of caregivers as essential partners in care
  • Engaged with municipal, provincial, or federal representatives to advocate for improved dementia care, caregiver supports, funding, or policy development
  • Participated in or supported public policy discussions that advance the rights, dignity, and quality of life of persons living with dementia and their care partners

5. Support for Caregivers and Families

  • Demonstrated meaningful commitment to improving the lives of caregivers and families affected by dementia
  • Supported initiatives that reduce caregiver burden and isolation
  • Helped expand access to education, respite, resources, or emotional support
  • Exemplifies compassion, resilience, and dedication in supporting a person living with dementia while contributing to the broader community

6. Innovation and Organizational Growth

  • Introduced creative fundraising ideas, partnerships, or solutions
  • Contributed to new opportunities that strengthened the organization’s future

7. Alignment with Mission and Values

  • Demonstrates integrity, compassion, collaboration, and respect
  • Embodies the spirit and legacy of the Society’s founders
  • Reflects the values and community commitment of the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County

NOTE: Current Board Members, Associated Positions / Committee Members, and ASWE Staff are NOT eligible recipients of this award. 

Past award recipients include:

2004- Mr. Robert Holden

2005- Dr. Ciaran Sheehan

2006- Mr. John Fairley, Ms. Dee Dee DeSantis, Ms. Norma Pauwels & Mr. Bob Turpin

2007- Mr. David Booth & Mrs. Ruth Booth

2008- Mrs. Claudette Burgess

2009- Royal Oak Long-Term Care Centre

2010- Mr. Tom Noble

2011- Mr. Rick Reaume

2012- Mr. Bryon Gero 

2013- Mr. Robert Davis

2014- RBC Dominion Securities

2016- St. Clair College

2018- Mrs. Judy Jenner

2020- Ms. Dena Peifer

2022- Dr. Shelia Horen

2024- Don Learn

2025- Barbara Pye

2026- Mrs. Janet Menard

This award will be presented at the World Alzheimer’s Day Breakfast held annually in the month of September, see our event calendar for updates and additional information.