Exciting news! The Top 7 Over 70 program has a new chapter in Ontario — in Guelph, Wellington & Dufferin! And, they’ve recently selected their first class of Top 7 Over 70 recipients. Read on to learn more about them.
SPONSORSHIP AND VOLUNTEERING: If you are interested in sponsoring the event, or volunteering, please contact United Way at 519-821-0571 or colleen@unitedwaygwd.com .
GALA: The inaugural gala for this new chapter will occur on Oct. 29, 2026.
THE 2026 TOP 7 OVER 70 RECIPIENTS IN GUELPH, WELLINGTON & DUFFERIN:
Charlie Barnes: At 88, Charlie Barnes continues to redefine what aging can look like. An accomplished triathlete, cyclist, fundraiser, and community volunteer, he has raised more than $150,000 through Tour de Guelph in support of local healthcare and community programs. Whether competing internationally, mentoring athletes, or inspiring others to give back, Charlie demonstrates that passion, purpose, and community service have no age limit.
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Anne Day: Anne Day is a tireless community leader whose impact has only grown since turning 70. As editor of the Puslinch Pioneer, leadership volunteer, mentor, publisher, and advocate, she connects people, amplifies community voices, and champions causes that improve lives. From supporting refugees and women entrepreneurs to raising awareness of human trafficking, Anne continues to create opportunities, foster inclusion, and inspire positive change throughout Guelph-Wellington.
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Bob McCabe: After overcoming childhood sexual abuse and decades of addiction, Bob McCabe has dedicated his seventies to helping others heal. As founder of the Recovery Speaking Initiative, mentor, advocate, and volunteer, he supports survivors of trauma and individuals in recovery through education, peer support, and community outreach. His lived experience, compassion, and commitment to service have transformed countless lives throughout Guelph-Wellington.
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Rich Moccia: Rich Moccia exemplifies active and purposeful aging through his extraordinary commitment to community service, environmental stewardship, mentorship, and lifelong learning. Since turning 70, he has continued to lead and volunteer with organizations including United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Guelph, the Bruce Trail Conservancy, and the University of Guelph Retirees Association. Through his energy, curiosity, and generosity, Rich inspires others to stay engaged, contribute meaningfully, and embrace new challenges at every stage of life.
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Jim Rooney: At 82, Jim Rooney continues to make a meaningful impact through mentorship, leadership, and community service. A former educator, coach, author, and sports leader, he now devotes his time to guiding young leaders, supporting community initiatives such as The GOOD Games, and inspiring others through his writing, coaching, and advocacy for teamwork and inclusion. Jim demonstrates that leadership rooted in service never retires.
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Liz Sandals: Following a distinguished 30-year career in public service, including as Guelph’s MPP and Ontario’s Minister of Education, Liz Sandals has dedicated her retirement years to strengthening community organizations across Guelph-Wellington. Through leadership roles with the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington, Guelph General Hospital, the Guelph Youth Music Centre, and Rotary, she continues to combine strategic leadership with hands-on volunteerism in service of her community.
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Earlla Vickers: At 92, Earlla Vickers continues to inspire through her compassion, energy, and commitment to community. A psychotherapist, mentor, volunteer, refugee advocate, choir member, and lifelong learner, she gives her time to supporting vulnerable individuals and fostering connection across generations. Whether volunteering, leading support groups, or advocating for inclusion, Earlla demonstrates that purpose, service, and personal growth have no age limit.
Guelph, Ontario, February 19, 2026. — A new awards program launches today to celebrate the
accomplishments of Guelph, Wellington & Dufferin area older adults, with the goal of
highlighting the remarkable impact of community members who defy age norms, demonstrating
that passion, purpose, and influence don’t diminish with time.
The Top 7 Over 70 awards celebrate seven extraordinary individuals who, after the age of 70,
make significant and lasting contributions to our community. Their stories serve as a powerful
reminder that it is never too late to get involved, give back, and create meaningful change.
Started in Calgary in 2017 as a way to recognize individuals making exceptional contributions
later in life, the Top 7 Over 70 program has been expanding to communities across Canada the
last couple of years.
“We are thrilled to be launching the Top 7 Over 70 program here in Guelph, Wellington &
Dufferin,” said Glenna Banda, executive director, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin.
“United Way is proud to champion a community where everyone feels like they belong and are
valued for their contributions. Our communities are full of dedicated individuals making a
difference well beyond their working years – in fact, our communities’ volunteer base relies on
them!”
“The contributions of seniors are essential to the health and vitality of our communities,” said
Kim McConnell, Top 7 Over 70 Canada Chair. “They lead, mentor, and give back in ways that
truly move the dial. Top 7 Over 70 is a celebration of that ongoing impact, and we are delighted
that Guelph Wellington Dufferin is among the first communities in Ontario to bring this inspiring
program to life.”
The Top 7 Over 70 Awards are not a lifetime achievement award, rather they recognize and
celebrate an individual’s contributions after the age of 70. Nominees may have started a new
venture, reprised an existing one, or taken their previous work in a new direction. Regardless of
how it started, nominees are making contributions to the fabric of our community in one or more
of the following areas: health and recreation, arts and culture, science, business, non-profit,
environment, overcoming adversity or making a difference.
Funds raised from the Top 7 Over 70 Awards will support United Way Guelph Wellington
Dufferin. United Way invests in a diverse list of community programs and services that help
over 145,000 people in our local community meet their basic needs, access resources and build
a brighter future.
Nominations for the Top 7 Over 70 Awards will open April 1st and winners will be announced at
a celebration event in late Fall 2026. More information will be available at unitedwaygwd.com
If you are interested in sponsoring the event, or volunteering, please contact United Way at 519-
821-0571 or colleen@unitedwaygwd.com .
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United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin has worked in our community for over 85 years to
monitor and meet the pressing social needs of our community, including poverty, social isolation
and mental health. Directed by a volunteer board, managed by committed staff and supported
by thousands of donors, United Way works with partners in all sectors to improve lives and build
community. Donations to United Way are accepted year-round, by visiting us online at
unitedwaygwd.com or by calling the United Way office 519-821-0571. 100% of donations make
an impact in Guelph, Wellington & Dufferin. For more information, please visit
unitedwaygwd.com .
For more information:
Glenna Banda, Executive Director
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin
226-326-0237 glenna@unitedwaygwd.com
Colleen Murdoch
Director, Community Engagement & Impact
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin
226-326-0233 colleen@unitedwaygwd.com