From environmental sustainability to supporting individuals with special needs, Sarah McGowan has dedicated herself to building a stronger, more connected North Bay community over the years.
With her unwavering commitment to numerous local initiatives, McGowan has proven to be a quiet yet powerful force for good.
“Even just being nominated would have meant so much,” McGowan said. “I was genuinely surprised and grateful that someone thought of me in that way.”
McGowan’s is involved with the Rotary Club of Nipissing, where she plays an integral role in several service projects aimed at improving the lives of local residents.
Her leadership was also key in the Centennial Committee, where she helped honour North Bay’s rich history.
“It’s been great to see the difference being made through groups like Warriors of Hope, Clean Green Beautiful and the city’s centennial events,” McGowan shared. “It feels good to be part of something that brings people together.”
Beyond preserving the past, McGowan’s commitment to supporting those in need is equally as strong.
As a dedicated volunteer for Warriors of Hope, she has provided vital support to individuals facing breast cancer, offering a source of strength and encouragement to those in their most challenging moments.
“Helping others brings me a strange amount of joy,” she said. “I like being a small part of something bigger and seeing things come together.”
In addition to her work with health-related initiatives, McGowan is a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, working tirelessly with Clean, Green, Beautiful North Bay to help make the community a cleaner and more vibrant place for all.
“If you just walk down your street with a bag and pick up garbage, it can change someone’s day,” she noted. “Change starts with the individual.”
McGowan’s efforts extend to her work with OASIS (Ontario Agencies Supporting Individuals with Special Needs) and The Labour Market Group, where she has been a powerful advocate for social services, inclusion and workforce development.
She has worked behind the scenes to ensure that accessibility and inclusivity are woven into every project she touches.
“My parents taught us to give back and always lend a helping hand and a listening ear,” she said. “You never know when you’ll need that yourself.”
Whether it’s a local business initiative or a community health strategy, McGowan is always ensuring that diverse voices are heard and that no one is left behind.
McGowan has also participated in FORA: Network for Change, Ignite North Bay and the Business Women’s Network, where she helped to empower entrepreneurs and professionals, particularly women, to connect and thrive.
Another key part of Sarah’s contributions was her work with the Community Drug Strategy North Bay & Area, where she was a committed advocate for public health and harm reduction, ensuring individuals facing substance use challenges receive the support they deserve.
She’s always giving credit to others, always putting the needs of the community first and always encouraging those around her to do better.
“There have been so many people I’ve worked with over the years, so for me, it’s almost like an award for them, too,” McGowan reflected.
In every role, McGowan has brought people together, cultivated relationships and made North Bay a more inclusive, supportive place.
Whether it's through her marketing and communications work, her involvement in community projects, or her advocacy for underserved groups, Sarah McGowan has truly embodied the spirit of an Unsung Hero.
“It really allows me to feel that people have noticed my work, which is something I’ve never assumed,” she said. “I want to help young people see how important it is to get involved. No matter where you go in life, there’s always space for giving back.”
“It’s easy to focus on what’s wrong,” she added. “But at some point you have to ask, ‘What can I do about it?’. Even something small can make a difference.”
The Unsung Hero Award celebrates those whose tireless efforts improve the lives of others in the community. Sarah McGowan’s quiet dedication, compassion, and civic responsibility have helped shape North Bay into a stronger, more connected community.
Congratulations, Sarah, on this well-deserved recognition!
This award is proudly sponsored by Sun Life/DKB Financial Services Group.
