Their dedication to making a difference in their community stood out among so many inspiring stories.
Gary is a true advocate for accessible mental health care, dedicating his life to ensuring no one is turned away from counselling due to financial barriers. As the founder of Moving Forward Family Services (MFFS), he has built an agency that now provides over 25,000 counselling sessions each year to individuals who might not otherwise afford therapy. By working with student counsellors, volunteers, and new social workers across Canada, he offers vital training opportunities while expanding access to care.
Seventy-five percent of the counselling at MFFS is completely free, while pay-what-you-can sessions average just $5–7. But affordability never comes at the cost of quality. Gary personally mentors new therapists, leading over 20 consultation sessions each week to support their growth and ensure clients receive the best care. He also organizes dozens of professional development opportunities—subsidizing costs to make training more accessible, even for professionals outside his agency who serve marginalized communities. Last year alone, over 500 professionals attended his training events.
Beyond his leadership, Gary’s generosity knows no limits. If a student lacks funds for trauma training, he covers the cost. If a client needs specialized care beyond what MFFS can provide, he personally steps in to ensure they receive the right support. Despite his agency’s national reach, Gary still answers every call and email — because for him, making mental health care accessible isn’t just a mission; it’s a promise.
Gary Will Recive:
- Flights & accommodations for 3 nights at their OEB destination of choice in Canada
- $1,000 CAD spending money
- VIP breakfast experience at OEB
Thank you to everyone who nominated, voted, and celebrated amazing community leaders in our Canadian communities!
