Awards

Volunteer Award 

The Gerry Bloomfield Volunteer Award is awarded to an individual or group of individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to Autism Ontario. Recipients are past or present members of Autism Ontario and have demonstrated integrity, commitment and loyalty to the mission and vision of Autism Ontario over a sustained period. These volunteers have been elected by the Board of Directors for their outstanding volunteer service that has contributed to improving the quality of life for autistic people through:

• Promoting public awareness and understanding
• Advocating on behalf of Autism Ontario
• Supporting the families and communities through outstanding work at the Regional level

2026 Gerry Bloomfield Volunteer Award ​Recipient: "Give Your Heart to Autism" Gala Committee​ 

The "Give Your Heart to Autism" Gala Committee has been a loyal, committed, and passionate group of community leaders, advocates, parents, and professionals who worked side by side for 25 years in unwavering support of the autism community. Over the course of their leadership, they raised millions of dollars for Autism Ontario, directly strengthening programs, education, resources, and supports for individuals and families across Windsor-Essex. The annual Gala became one of the region’s most anticipated and meaningful community events — consistently maintaining a waitlist for attendance and selling out to approximately 1200 guests annually – an extraordinary demand that reflected both the importance of the evening and the remarkable generosity of the Windsor-Essex community. More than a fundraiser, the Gala stood as a powerful demonstration of collective compassion, dedication, and belief in a more inclusive future.  

2026 Gerry Bloomfield Volunteer Award Recipient: David Moloney​ 

David Moloney brings over fifteen years of experience in the Financial Services Sector to his role, where he has cultivated self-advocacy skills and a deep understanding of the crucial issues affecting individuals on the autism spectrum, including employment, social, and personal support. As someone diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome in 1998 and actively involved in the autism community since 2001, joining the Autism Ontario Board of Directors was a natural progression for him. Prior to his board membership, David organized monthly social outings and spoke to Parent Groups, gaining insights into the unique contributions individuals with autism can make to society. David is known for his indefatigable love for advocacy – a person who shares his knowledge, experiences, and commitment to a more inclusive society at the local, provincial, and national level.