Community Partner Award: Tiny Home Takeout (Amy Cyr)
Presented annually in recognition of outstanding contributions made by a community partner or agency to the Catholic school system serving the students, staff, and greater community of Waterloo Region.
We are proud to present the Community Partner Award to Tiny Home Takeout, under the leadership of Chef Amy Cyr. Since its launch in January 2021, Tiny Home Takeout has served as a beacon of hope—feeding more than 120,000 individuals and distributing over 500,000 portions of food, even through the height of the pandemic.
With the motto, “grab a bite, give if you can,” they embody Catholic social teachings in action. The initiative has recently expanded to two satellite locations to meet growing community needs, offering not only meals but also dignity, solidarity and welcome to all who come to their table.
Their work is a powerful witness to Gospel values, reflecting the love, compassion and service that lie at the heart of Catholic social justice. For this unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable among us, Tiny Home Takeout is a most deserving recipient of this year’s Community Partner Award.
Chair’s Award: Gavin Burns, St. Don Bosco
Presented to a person or persons in the school system who has contributed significantly to Catholic Education. It is given annually in recognition of outstanding contributions made to the Catholic school system serving the students, staff, and greater community of Waterloo Region, or to the betterment of Catholic Education in Ontario in general.
This year’s Chair’s Award is presented to Gavin Burns of St. Don Bosco, whose dedication to student success has made a lasting impact across the board.
As a co-operative education teacher, Gavin plays a key role in supporting both current students and those re-engaging with their education. Through strong partnerships with employers and compassionate mentorship, he has helped many students reach graduation—offering not only credits, but confidence and purpose.
Gavin’s presence is felt throughout the school and the wider community. His deep care for students and commitment to Catholic education make him a truly worthy recipient of the Chair’s Award.
Distinguished Graduate Award: Robert Joseph Carli (St. Jerome’s Catholic Secondary School)
Presented to a graduate of more than 10 years from our school system who has demonstrated outstanding examples of the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations. Awarded at the graduation exercises of the recipient’s Secondary School or other appropriate public venue.
We are thrilled to honour Robert Joseph Carli, a graduate of the former St. Jerome’s Catholic Secondary School, with the Distinguished Graduate Award.
Now an award-winning composer, Robert has left a lasting mark on Canada’s entertainment industry through his work in film and television. Best known for scoring the long-running series Murdoch Mysteries, Robert’s music sets the tone for each episode, enriching the storytelling with depth and emotion. He has also contributed to other acclaimed productions such as SkyMed and Ruby and the Well.
A musician from his high school days—memorable for his role in My Fair Lady—Robert has since received four Canadian Screen Awards and five Gemini Awards, a testament to both his talent and dedication.
Robert Carli exemplifies the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations in his creative excellence, integrity and enduring contributions to Canadian culture.
