First Capital Distinguished Citizen
Kate Thomas
"I believe we receive far more than we give when we give with a free heart."
Kate grew up in a family that taught her the importance of helping others, no matter who they are. Witnessing generosity in her daily life inspired her to stand up for the causes she believes in.
Though she considers herself shy and introverted, Kate sees those traits as strengths. As a "behind-the-scenes" person, she observes the world thoughtfully, always looking for meaningful ways to contribute.
Even though she wasn't born and raised in Kingston, Kate has made a lasting impact in the community, playing a key role in neighbourhood leadership, music and arts festivals, local food advocacy, and wellness initiatives across Kingston, including the Community Sharing Gardens in Skeleton Park, and inspiring those around her along the way.
Honourable Achievement
Judi Cova
“When I believe in something, I'm in, and I want to help, and I want to support and make it work. The vibrant music-making and educational goals of the Cantabile Choirs of Kingston drew me in immediately.”
Judi was raised by parents who volunteered throughout their lives, so helping others is second nature and is something Judi genuinely enjoys. She believes volunteering doesn't have to be grand; even small actions can create meaningful change and enhance one's life.
For 22 years Judi has been the volunteer music librarian for the community-based Cantabile Choirs. She is passionate in her support of this organization which welcomes so many to experience an exceptional musical community, then shares with Kingston audiences (and beyond!). She has sung in the choir since 1997.
Peter Kingston
"I've lived here all my life, and I know people can be really generous."
Peter doesn't just share a name with the city; he's a lifelong resident of Kingston, and he has made a lasting impact through decades of community leadership and volunteer work.
Driven by a desire to give back for the good fortune he's experienced, Peter has played a key role in some of Kingston's most transformative projects. He served as President of Junior Achievement, chaired the Boys and Girls Club of Kingston and Area, and led major fundraising efforts for the St. Lawrence College Foundation, raising over $3 million for campus expansion. He also spearheaded the expansion of the Kingston YMCA, raising more than $6 million for a new pool and facility upgrades.
Additionally, as chair of the Hospice Kingston Capital Campaign, Peter played a key role in establishing Kingston's first residential hospice, raising over $15 million.
He counts all of these accomplishments as a team effort with other great community members who also shared his belief in the cause.
Chances are, if you live in Kingston, you've felt the effect of Peter's work even if you didn't know it. His legacy is one of leadership, profound generosity and a belief that strong communities are built by those who care.
Youth Volunteerism
Zoé Leduc (elementary student)
"I like to know that someone will be warmer because they have a blanket now."
Even at a young age, Zoé has always wanted to help. When she heard about the Humanitarian Club at her school, she saw it as the perfect opportunity to get involved. She began by knitting blankets for people experiencing homelessness, and now, she's seen as a key member of the club.
On Saturdays, she also volunteers at school fundraising events, selling handmade wool dolls named Pocket Buddies.
A natural leader, Zoé has inspired many of her classmates to give back and join her on this journey, proof that compassion, when shared, can be beautifully contagious.
Abigail Champagne (secondary student)
"I know what it's like to be on the opposite side of volunteering at a hospital. That drove me to want to make someone's day better."
Abigail is a Grade 12 student at Frontenac Secondary School. Diagnosed with Crohn's disease at 13, she experienced firsthand how meaningful support inside hospitals can be.
During the summer of 2023, she dedicated over 200 hours of volunteer work at the Providence Care Hospital as a patient assistant, supporting patients, families and staff from a wide range of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Abigail feels fortunate to have access to the care and resources she needs, but she knows that not everyone has the same opportunities. That awareness drives her to give back, with the hope of easing someone else's journey. Through her experiences, she's learned how genuine connections and kindness can make a difference.
Natalie Kearn (post-secondary student)
Natalie is a Queen’s University medical student whose commitment to service, leadership and community shines through. She founded Project Uni, a free online platform that supported over 2.1 million high school students during the pandemic and continues to offer mentorship and educational content.
Through her initiative Painted by Nat, she brings joy to children at charity and hospital events and has helped raise $97,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society through her design work with QMed Fights Cancer.
Natalie’s impact spans sport, health equity and sustainability. She has coached youth field hockey, helped launch a curling program for racialized communities and led urban agriculture initiatives in Kingston.
As a mentor and Residence Don, she’s supported hundreds of students, while also volunteering over 175 hours in hospitals and leading ultrasound workshops to improve diagnostic access in underserved areas. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, accessibility and a genuine desire to uplift others.
