Lois is a community champion, dedicated journalist, and tireless advocate for social justice and inclusion. As the esteemed Editor-in-Chief of Peterborough This Week from 2003 to 2018, Lois left an indelible mark on the community, earning accolades including every major community newspaper award in Ontario and several across Canada. Her commitment to shedding light on the stories of those facing adversity, whether it be poverty, addiction, or housing insecurity, exemplifies her unwavering dedication to giving voice to the voiceless.

Beyond her journalistic endeavors, Lois's passion for making a difference extended far beyond the newsroom. She played a pivotal role in founding transformative organizations such as the YES Shelter, The Mount Community Centre, and Volunteer Peterborough, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and empowerment in her wake. Her leadership roles, including serving as Vice Chair of Homegrown Homes and contributing to various committees focused on fundraising and communications, demonstrate her knack for rallying community support and mobilizing resources to tackle pressing issues head-on.

Lois's commitment to inclusivity is evident in her welcoming embrace of all citizens, particularly newcomers and underrepresented groups, encouraging them to join Volunteer Peterborough in building a more inclusive community together. Her ability to identify major challenges and galvanize community action around them has been instrumental in driving positive change throughout Peterborough.

Even behind the scenes, Lois's impact reverberates profoundly. Her unwavering support for women struggling with mental health issues, especially during the isolating times of the pandemic, showcases her deep empathy and generosity of spirit. Her home became a beacon of hope and solace, offering a lifeline to those in need. Simultaneously, Lois's entrepreneurial spirit shone through as she launched a successful freelance business, bridging communities and clients worldwide while remaining deeply connected to her roots.

In every facet of her life, Lois embodies the essence of a true changemaker, leading by example and inspiring others to join her in building a more equitable and compassionate world.

Social Posts

Reaching Home: Indigenous Initiatives Applications Are Now Open! 📣

United Way Peterborough & District is excited to announce new, targeted funding opportunities through Reaching Home for Indigenous initiatives.

🔗 Learn more and apply when you visit the link in our bio.
❗ Applications close May 11, 2026.
🌱Garden Boxes are back, and they’re going fast🌱

These beauties are made by local volunteers! Hand-crafted, solid wood garden boxes are available in two sizes:
• Medium 4 ft box – $45 
• Large 6 ft box – $65

Built by community, for community, with proceeds supporting programs and services right here across Peterborough City and County.

A very special thank you to our friends @chemonghhbc for generously providing the materials to make this project possible.

Spring has already sprung, and quantities are limited, so if you’ve been thinking about growing your own veggies, herbs, or flowers this season, now’s the time to jump in!

👉 Reserve yours today by emailing: dayofcaring@uwpeterborough.ca, or send us a DM for further details!
Don’t worry, Jim & Rhonda! We’re holding it down over here!
🌍💚 A healthy planet supports healthy communities.
 
Climate change impacts us all — but the most vulnerable feel it first and hardest.
 
This #EarthDay, let’s take action for people and the planet.
 
How are you making a difference today? 🌱
Learn more about the Neighbourhood Fund at the link in our bio 😌🏡
🙌 Volunteers bring communities to life!
 
From lending a helping hand to leading initiatives, volunteers make lasting change possible.
 
This #NationalVolunteerWeek, we celebrate YOU — the people who make our communities stronger every day.
 
Drop a ❤️ if you’ve ever volunteered!
Do YOU want to make a difference in your community? 🏘️

👉 Apply for our Neighbourhood Fund Grant today!

United Way Peterborough & District's Neighbourhood Fund offers small, one time grants to help groups of people in the City and County of Peterborough bring their community ideas to life. Whether you’re planning something with neighbours or working on a local project, this fund is here to support you. It’s all about helping people connect, get involved, and make their community a better place together.

🔗 Get started via the link in our bio
🗓️ Deadline to apply is Wednesday, May 27 at noon
We had such an amazing time at our 2025 Campaign Celebration last Thursday, celebrating our community coming together to raise an astounding $1.56 million in support of essential, front-line programs and services❤️!
Donate To the United Way
Donate