Awards

The Ontario Retirement Communities Association (ORCA) has the privilege of recognizing its members who make Ontario’s retirement community sector a better place through its annual awards. ORCA awards include the Innovation Award, the Community & Social Engagement Award, the Commercial Partner of the Year Award, and the prestigious Donna Holwell Legacy Award.

This year’s awards will be presented to selected members at our annual ORCA Conference on September 10, 2025, during the Banquet & Awards Night.

Please learn more about the awards below and consider nominating someone. If you have any related questions, please contact nominations@orcaretirement.com.

The Innovation Award recognizes an Operator Member that has elevated its organization’s profile through innovative practices. Whether through innovative design, new or enhanced direct care solutions, or technological or digital advancements, or a groundbreaking concept, the community has enhanced residents’ quality of life, increased employee engagement, or improved operational efficiency. 

Learn more about submission requirements, criteria, etc.

Deadline to apply: July 27, 2025

The Community and Social Engagement Award recognizes an Operator Member that has launched impactful initiatives to strengthen connections beyond its walls. This award celebrates involvement in community activities or social causes that enhance the well-being of both the broader community and the retirement home. 

Learn more about submission requirements, criteria, etc.

Deadline to apply: July 27, 2025

The Commercial Partner of the Year Award recognizes an exceptional Commercial Partner who has gone above and beyond in their contributions to ORCA Operator Member communities. This award celebrates a partner whose products, services, or initiatives have significantly enhanced the quality of life for residents and/or have provided outstanding support to retirement community operations. 

Please note only Operator Members can submit nominations for this award.

Learn more about submission requirements, criteria, etc.

Deadline to apply: July 27, 2025

The Donna Holwell Legacy Award honours individuals who, through their dedication and commitment to Retirement Community Living, have created a legacy of work resulting in positive change and measurable difference for the sector.

Nominations are invited for ORCA Operator Members who have a demonstrated history of service in various capacities: exceptional people who have contributed both personally and professionally to the betterment of our sector.

Learn more about submission requirements, criteria, etc.

Nominations opening soon

Submitting a nomination is an excellent way to recognize your home or commercial partners’ outstanding efforts!

Other Benefits:

• Share information and learnings on your initiatives;

• Increase awareness of your actions across the sector;

• Position your home, colleague, or commercial partner as a leader in the sector;

• And more!