Congrats to our Executive Director!
March 8, 2018
Congratulations to Margaret Hancock, Family Service Toronto’s Executive Director, who has been named as one of 2018’s Women of Distinction award recipients by the Toronto YWCA.
“Margaret Hancock’s work has created a ripple effect of inclusivity and social justice,” the YWCA states on its website. “When Margaret comes to the table she has the unique ability to harness the power of collective action to improve the lives of others.”
“Her effective consensus building battles oppression and creates solidarity with social justice networks. Her work is guided by her core beliefs of equity, inclusion, and justice… In all of Margaret’s work one aspect is unchanging: she is resolute in her commitment to make sure justice is not just for some but for all.”
The award announcement comes on International Women’s Day which celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world. FST joins all organizations supporting a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
Also named as recipients of this year’s Women of Distinction award are Toyo Ajibolade, Zanana Akande, Pat Armstrong, Julia Deans, Lynn Factor, Marcie Ponte and Milica Radisic.
The awards will be presented May 24 at a Fairmont Royal York dinner to raise funds for the YWCA for their work with women and girls in the city.
Margaret Hancock is the fourth woman associated with Family Service Toronto to receive the YWCA Women of Distinction award. Previous winners were:
Pat Israel (1989) for her work as founder of the DisAbled Women’s Network and her advocacy on behalf of the disabled. Pat is a support worker with FST’s Seniors and Caregivers Support Services and Violence Against Women units.
Tamam McCallum (2007) a former FST counsellor recognized for her community development work.
Fran Odette (2008) for her access and equity work and advocacy for women with disabilities and on behalf of deaf women. Fran is a former member of FST’s board of directors and served as chair from 2010 to 2012.