Anja Rissanen has quietly been making a profound impact on the lives of many, dedicating decades of service to the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) and the Finnish community in Sault Ste. Marie.
Rissanen was shocked when informed of her win. "I’m totally surprised and honoured. Never in my dreams would I have imagined this. I don’t believe that I deserve it, but I’m very thankful to the people who nominated me," said Rissanen.
Rissanen emigrated from Finland in 1966 and quickly made Sault Ste. Marie her home.
After raising her two sons as a stay-at-home mother, she embarked on a long career with OFRA, where she worked tirelessly in multiple roles becoming a beloved figure to both staff and residents.
Her efforts didn’t stop at retirement.
Rissanen became even more involved with the Ladies’ Auxiliary, which she has chaired since 1995.
Under her leadership, the group has raised nearly $1.5 million to support the Mauno Kaihla Koti Long Term Care Home.
These funds come from bake sales, bazaars, Finnish bread baking and the management of two second-hand stores.
Known for going above and beyond, Rissanen’s contributions are not limited to fundraising.
She personally shops for groceries, clothes and other essentials for residents without family, ensuring their needs are met and providing much-needed companionship.
Her peers describe her as humble, loyal and deeply compassionate, always placing the well-being of others before her own.
While Rissanen credits the entire OFRA team and Ladies’ Auxiliary volunteers for their collective efforts, it is her leadership, tireless dedication and genuine care for the community that have truly made an impact on the lives of Sault Ste. Marie’s elderly and vulnerable residents.
"I love working and helping people. It's second nature for me. OFRA is very close to my heart and it fulfills a cultural need as well. I'm very proud of my culture,” she shared.
“I love seniors. I’ve always been drawn to working with them,” she said. "These people are my extended family.”
This award is presented to an individual or group whose tireless work and/or volunteer efforts in our community seek to improve the lives of others. The recipient has created a positive impact in our community both now and for the future.
Congratulations, Anja!
This award is proudly sponsored by Algoma University.