On June 22nd, Canadian Senator Victor Oh inaugurated the Legacy Awards Ceremony at Markham City Hall. Special guests included Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, provincial and city councillors, Chinese community leaders from the Greater Toronto Area, prominent Chinese business entrepreneurs, and other distinguished guests.

Senator Oh, who has served in the Senate for 11 years, introduced this award in Ontario as a farewell tribute to honour and reward the selfless contributions of community volunteers who have significantly impacted social welfare. Over 350 individuals, including Mayor Scarpitti, 12 city councillors, local Chinese community leaders, distinguished Chinese business entrepreneurs, and long-term volunteers from various community groups in the Greater Toronto Area, gathered to receive the recognition.

During the ceremony, Senator Oh expressed his heartfelt appreciation for all the volunteers, urging new immigrants to work together to care for the community, unite against racial discrimination, andhelp build a beautiful and harmonious society in Canada. He emphasized that this award represents the highest honour given to volunteers.

In his speech, Mayor Frank Scarpitti praised Senator Oh as a model immigrant in Canada, highlighting his significant contributions to the community, particularly in advocating for senior citizens and promoting multicultural development.

Among the honorees were 50 Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto's dedicated volunteers. Led by Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan, they attended the award ceremony. Venerable Chueh Fan praised the volunteers, saying, "I am deeply moved by the unity and dedication of Fo Guang members to the Fo Guang Shan community and their adherence to the Venerable MasterHsing Yun's teachings. This commitment has allowed Fo Guang Shan to firmly establish itself in Toronto, Canada. This event showcases the collective efforts that the Venerable Master taught us and embodies the achievements of the Fo Guang Shan community. I am proud of everyone!"

Fo Guang Shan Volunteers uphold the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism taught by the Venerable Master Hsing Yun, practicing the Three Acts of Goodness and the Four Givings daily. They exemplify hard work and perseverance, benefiting and fostering friendly and peaceful coexistence within Canada’s multicultural environment. The Legacy Award ceremony marks a significant chapter in the history of Toronto Fo Guang members.