Community Comes Together to Honour Beloved Volunteer with Renaming of The Joyce Bond Centre

Family members, friends, staff, residents, and community supporters gathered at Northwood recently to celebrate the official renaming of its main activities space as The Joyce Bond Centre, honouring the extraordinary life and legacy of longtime volunteer Joyce Bond.

Through a heartfelt community effort, more than $100,000 was raised to recognize Joyce’s more than 30 years of dedicated volunteer service to Northwood. The renaming stands as a powerful tribute to the lasting impact of volunteers and the profound difference one compassionate individual can make.

Joyce Bond began volunteering at Northwood in 1992 and quickly became a cherished presence throughout the community. Known for her warmth, kindness, and welcoming hugs, Joyce gave selflessly of her time, offering comfort, connection, and joy to residents, families, and staff alike. This naming opportunity reflects not only her remarkable contribution, but also the true value of volunteerism in long-term care.

The Joyce Bond Centre is the social heart of Northwood. It will continue to be home to countless concerts, intergenerational programs, church services, bingos, dances, and special events, bringing people together and creating moments of belonging and joy. It is a space where residents and their families gather, connect, and truly Live More.

“This centre represents everything Joyce stood for—connection, compassion, and community,” said Charbel Daniel, President and CEO of Northwood. “It is fitting that the space where so much life happens at Northwood will carry her name for generations to come.”

The celebration was made even more meaningful through music—one of Joyce’s greatest loves. Members of the Northwood Choir reunited to perform Joyce’s favourite song, filling the room with emotion and cherished memories. Joyce’s grandson, Dunnery Bond, offered a deeply moving tribute by performing songs in honour of his Nan, a moment that touched everyone in attendance. Guests were also treated to a beautiful performance by The Atlantic Sound Machine, under the direction of Stephanie McKeown, whose music brought warmth, joy, and a sense of togetherness to the celebration. Together, these performances reflected the love, connection, and community spirit that Joyce embodied throughout her life.

The renaming ceremony on January 18, 2026, was a celebration of Joyce’s legacy and a reminder of how deeply volunteers shape the lives of those they serve. The Joyce Bond Centre will ensure that her spirit of love and inclusion lives on at the very heart of Northwood.