For over two decades, Mike Gordon has been a quiet force for good in Orillia.
From affordable housing to youth sports and community development, Gordon has dedicated countless hours to building a better, more connected community, always without seeking recognition.
“I am thrilled. It’s always nice to be recognized,” said Gordon. “I was a bit surprised by the ‘Unsung Hero’ title, since I was named Citizen of the Year for Orillia not too long ago, that felt like a pretty loud thank-you. So while I don’t feel entirely 'unsung,' I’m truly honoured.”
Gordon’s volunteer journey began as president of Options for Homes, Canada’s largest non-profit affordable housing developer.
Since then, he’s held numerous key roles, including treasurer of the Orillia Channel Cats Swim Club for seven years.
There, he managed finances, applied for grants, and secured funding for a new electronic timing system and video board helping the team thrive, even through the pandemic.
“One of my proudest moments was securing a major grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation for the Channel Cats Swim Club,” shared Gordon. “It funded a large video board and timing equipment for the new pool.”
Gordon was also a driving force behind the Orillia Recreation Centre's aquatic facility, attending planning meetings and ensuring it met the needs of local swimmers and community groups.
“It’s a great way to highlight the behind-the-scenes work volunteers do,” he said of the Unsung Hero recognition. “People often see the impact, like the food bank or community foundation, but not the people making it all happen. This award helps recognize that quiet dedication.”
Beyond sports, Gordon led the capital and fundraising campaign for St. Paul’s Centre on Peter Street helping transform the Great Hall into a vibrant space now used for concerts, workshops, and community programming.
“Helping to revitalize St. Paul’s Great Hall was a proud moment for me,” said Gordon. “It’s now a place where people can come together, learn and celebrate.”
For the past 11 years, he has served as president of the Community Foundation of Orillia and Area, which supports everything from food and shelter to arts, environment and recreation.
“I love Orillia and care deeply about the community,” Gordon shared. “When I joined the community foundation board, I was amazed to learn we had 155 local charities doing incredible work. Supporting them in any way I can has been incredibly fulfilling.”
Under Gordon’s guidance, the foundation’s assets have grown from $1 million to nearly $25 million, with annual grants increasing from $30,000 to over $600,000.
He’s also the founder of GovernWell, a digital platform that helps non-profits more easily manage their legal and corporate responsibilities, allowing them to stay focused on their mission.
“I’ve launched GovernWell to support the backbone of many organizations,” Gordon explained. “Over 70 organizations, mostly local, are already using it and I’m proud to see the impact it's having.”
Gordon brings a thoughtful, strategic approach to every project with global insight to local issues, ensuring long-term impact and inclusive solutions.
In every role, Gordon commits for the long haul, understanding that meaningful change takes time.
Gordon is the definition of an Unsung Hero, giving selflessly, leading quietly and making a lasting difference for all who call Orillia home.
The Unsung Hero award celebrates an individual or group whose tireless work and/or volunteer efforts in our community seek to improve the lives of others.
The recipient of this award exemplifies the spirit of generosity, compassion and civic responsibility, consistently going above and beyond to create a positive impact in our community, both now and for the future.
Congratulations, Mike!
This award is proudly sponsored by Casino Rama.
