Abbeyfield Volunteers Honoured for Service to Seniors during Canada’s Seniors Month

Global Co-Housing Pioneer Going Strong across Canada

Kelowna, BC — Abbeyfield Canada, the Canadian arm of the Abbeyfield co-housing model founded in England more than 70 years ago, marked the beginning of National Seniors Month by honouring three of its volunteers with the 2026 Robert McMullen Award for Lifetime Volunteering Excellence.

“For more than 70 years, Abbeyfield has been bringing isolated seniors together, in small group homes on neighbourhood streets, where they enjoy each others’ companionship over shared meals, activities, and by simply being together,” said Abbeyfield Canada President Joe McReynolds. “Loneliness and isolation, especially among the elderly, is a major detriment to mental and physical health. Thanks largely to our volunteers, we are able to provide safe, welcoming group homes in 20 communities across Canada, and growing.”

Three volunteers, Ian Edwards of Vancouver, Donna Mozell of Golden, British Columbia, and Mary Yack of Durham, Ontario, were awarded the 2026 Robert McMullen Award for Lifetime Volunteering Excellence, named after Abbeyfield founder Robert McMullen. The award recognizes volunteers who have demonstrated ten or more years of sustained service, inspired others through leadership, strengthened their local Abbeyfield communities, and made lasting contributions to the well-being of older adults.

Ian Edwards — Abbeyfield Houses Society of Vancouver

Ian Edwards has devoted more than fifteen years of volunteer service to Abbeyfield Vancouver. Since becoming involved in 2009, Ian has been a familiar and valued presence at the Abbeyfield Houses in Vancouver’s Marpole neighbourhood, helping maintain gardens and grounds, supporting events, entertaining residents through music, and bringing joy to countless holiday celebrations through his memorable role as Santa Claus.

Known for his humour, generosity, and willingness to help wherever needed, Ian’s commitment deepened further when he joined the Society’s Board of Directors in 2023. His steady presence and practical support have enriched the lives of residents, volunteers, and staff alike.

Donna Mozell — Abbeyfield House Society of St. Paul’s Golden

For more than thirteen years, Donna Mozell has been a cornerstone of Abbeyfield House Golden. Serving first in social programming and then for the past decade as Treasurer, Donna has provided exceptional leadership, organizational expertise, and unwavering dedication to the Society’s success.

Her contributions include successful grant writing, fundraising leadership during financially challenging periods, volunteer recruitment, governance excellence, and community outreach. Throughout personal challenges of her own, Donna remained steadfast in her commitment to Abbeyfield and its residents.

Her fellow volunteers describe her as dependable, professional, compassionate, and always willing to step forward when help is needed.

Mary Yack — Abbeyfield Houses Society of Durham

Mary Yack has served Abbeyfield Durham with distinction since 2009, including many years as Recording Secretary. Over more than 17 years of service, she has become known as a compassionate leader, meticulous record-keeper, trusted mentor, and tireless advocate for Abbeyfield’s mission.

Described by her nominator as “the heart and spirit of Abbeyfield,” Mary is celebrated for the kindness and thoughtfulness she brings to every aspect of her volunteer service. Through handwritten notes, personal outreach, community involvement, and countless acts of quiet support, she has helped create a culture where residents, volunteers, and board members feel valued and connected.

Her dedication to fostering community and promoting the value of volunteering has left a lasting impact on Abbeyfield Durham and the broader community it serves.

About Abbeyfield Canada

Abbeyfield Canada supports a network of Abbeyfield houses and developing societies across the country, providing affordable, supportive housing that enables older adults to maintain their independence while enjoying companionship, security, and a strong sense of community.

About Abbeyfield Globally

Abbeyfield promotes the Abbeyfield concept globally using its network of member national societies and, through them, an extended network of local societies, with current member societies in England, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Belgium, Poland and Jersey.