We are thankful to be welcome on these lands in friendship. The lands we are situated on are covered by the Williams Treaties and are the traditional territory of the Mississaugas, a branch of the greater Anishinaabeg Nation, including Algonquin, Ojibway, Odawa and Pottawatomi. These lands remain home to many Indigenous nations and peoples.

We acknowledge this land out of respect for the Indigenous nations who have cared for Turtle Island, also called North America, from before the arrival of settler peoples until this day. Most importantly, we acknowledge that the history of these lands has been tainted by poor treatment and a lack of friendship with the First Nations who call them home.

This history is something we are all affected by because we are all treaty people in Canada. We all have a shared history to reflect on, and each of us is affected by this history in different ways. Our past defines our present, but if we move forward as friends and allies, then it does not have to define our future.

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Building strong communities through volunteering

Volunteers are the roots of strong communities and Dan Gazarek is doing his part to strengthen communities across Durham Region.

From his time spent coaching high school football to his participation on the university’s Alumni Association Council (AAC), Dan believes in the importance of giving back.

Dan Gazarek and participants in Extreme spin

“I believe in leadership through action,” Dan said. “I was a part of the university in its early years, so joining the AAC was really important to me. I knew I could give back and make a difference. I really enjoyed contributing to its growth and success.”

Even in his day job, the Commerce grad is making his mark. In 2011, he founded Kingdom Force Sports, a sports training academy located in Ajax focused on developing players who are champions on the field and in the community.

He demonstrated that commitment to community by rallying a team to participate in the Ontario Shores Extreme Challenge. The four-hour spinning journey through snow, wind, rain and every possible weather condition imaginable was recently held in ACE’s Climatic Wind Tunnel, raising over $30,000.

The event also helped raise awareness to reduce stigma around mental health issues within our community. “It was really a win-win for everyone,” said Dan. “The university engaged the community and the community supported a great cause. Plus, I got to see the inside of ACE for the first time!”

From April 10 to 16, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology celebrates its volunteers during National Volunteer Week. We want to acknowledge the incredible efforts of volunteers across the university community and say thank you for your support.