Sylvia and Dale McClease are the 2025 Ward 1 Civic Hero!
During today’s Council meeting, Mayor Steven Del Duca, Ward 1 Councillor Marilyn Iafrate and Members of Council recognized Sylvia and Dale McClease with the 2025 Ward 1 Civic Hero Award during a special ceremonial presentation.
For more than 30 years, Sylvia and Dale McClease have dedicated their lives to serving others in the community, and making a meaningful impact in Vaughan and beyond. In 2006, they became members of the Maple Lions Club.
Sylvia served as the Maple Lions Club Treasurer for seven years, as President for more than 12 years and then, as Lions District Environment Chair for more than 13 years.
At the Maple Lions Club, Dale initiated the Maple Lion’s e-Waste program to properly recycle electronics and established a refurbishing program to salvage usable computers and laptops to donate to new-Canadians, low-income families and community groups.
For the last 25 years, Dale has been preparing and delivering homemade barbecue chicken wings to emergency service personnel on Christmas Day. He works hard to ensure members of York Regional Police, Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service, Emergency Medical Services and Ontario Provincial Police receive a heartfelt meal in appreciation of their service to the community.
In addition to their many positive contributions, Sylvia and Dale have hosted more than a dozen international students from South Korea, China and Taiwan, fostering cross-cultural exchange and lifelong friendships.
QUOTES
“Vaughan is filled with many remarkable residents who go above and beyond to make our community a better place to live, work and raise a family. Sylvia and Dale McClease are two of these extraordinary people. As Mayor, it is a true honour to highlight the work of those in our city who give back and support their neighbours. That is why I am so pleased to present Sylvia and Dale with the 2025 Ward 1 Civic Hero Award. For more than three decades, their work has helped elevate our quality of life in Vaughan and create a stronger sense of belonging. They are true community leaders who have dedicated their time and efforts through the Maple Lions Club – making sure those in need are supported, heard and seen. Congratulations to Sylvia and Dale, and thank you for all that you do to serve our community in Vaughan and beyond.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
“I am very honoured to present Sylvia and Dale McClease with the 2025 Ward 1 Civic Hero Award. For more than 30 years, Sylvia and Dale have worked tirelessly to support and give back to individuals, families and organizations in Vaughan. They are leaders in the community who emulate what it means to be true civic heroes. They have made a meaningful impact, and we are fortunate to have them here in Ward 1. They have forged an enduring legacy and continue to go above and beyond to do good for others. Congratulations to both of you on this well-deserved recognition!”
- Councillor Marilyn Iafrate, Ward 1
QUICK FACTS
- Vaughan’s Civic Hero Awards are presented annually.
- Recipients are nominated by their Local Councillor and acknowledged by Vaughan Council.
- The awards began in 2005 to recognize outstanding achievements and individual contributions to the community.
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