United Way East Ontario’s Community Builder Award program recognizes the outstanding volunteers and champions that help make our cities and towns a better place to live for everyone. Together with Apt613 we shine the light on volunteers across Prescott-Russell, Ottawa, Lanark County, and Renfrew County.
John and Lisa Allaire are United Way East Ontario’s latest Community Builder Award recipients for the amazing work they’ve been doing to support community causes through local concerts.
On a picturesque summer evening at a restaurant patio in Ottawa’s Trainyards neighbourhood, John was already a few songs into his set when United Way had the pleasure of interrupting him for a special surprise.
Local media personality Dylan Black, who is a member of their volunteer CBA Recognition Team, helped them “ambush” Lisa and John with their awards.
Gathered on the patio at O’Brien’s Roadhouse on Industrial Avenue were a number of Lisa and John’s friends and family members who laughed and cheered as the couple was caught completely off guard. Afterward, John and Lisa said they had a feeling something might have been up before the show, as the crowd seemed a bit bigger than usual.
Lisa teared up as Dylan spoke of all the good work she and John have done across the Ottawa region, especially since the pandemic, and you could see how much the recognition meant to them.
The pair were quick to thank everyone who has supported their ventures over the years, and encouraged others who have causes dear to them, to do what they can to support their communities.
Lisa commented that having their names etched on the United Way East Ontario Wall of Inspiration at Ottawa City Hall, alongside every other Community Builder, will be quite the thrill.
Lisa & John Allaire. Photo provided.
For more than 16 years, Lisa and John Allaire have been forces of kindness, creativity, and community in Ottawa and beyond.
Known for their warmth and generosity, Lisa and John use their talents—John as an award-winning musician and Lisa as a retired communications professional—to bring people together and make a tangible difference in their community.
From local fundraisers to national tours, their community involvement knows no boundaries, and their impact resonates across every stage and gathering they touch. Together, Lisa and John have raised thousands of dollars for local and rural food banks, the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, and numerous other charitable organizations.
While regularly donating a portion of his regular performance proceeds to causes close to their heart, John hosts benefit concerts twice every year that unite national and local artists in support of Ottawa’s most vulnerable communities.
Lisa, who manages John’s schedule and events, plays a key role in organizing and promoting these initiatives. Her marketing and outreach work ensures that every effort raises awareness and fosters collective generosity. Whether preparing auction baskets, coordinating live shows, or rallying sponsors, Lisa is the heart of these initiatives behind the scenes, amplifying every act of kindness.
The couple’s impact was especially visible during the pandemic, when they launched a Friday night online music series that brought comfort, joy and connection to those isolated at home. The series became a virtual lifeline for many, proving that even in difficult times, community can thrive through music and compassion.
Lisa and John’s inclusive approach also extends to those who are often underrepresented. Through their events, they have cultivated welcoming spaces where people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, Indigenous voices, BIPOC community members, and Francophone audiences feel valued and celebrated.
Their belief is simple but profound: music unites us, and kindness is for everyone.
Lisa and John’s story is one of harmony, in both music and community and they continue to be shining examples of how passion, creativity, and love for others can spark real change.
Do you know a volunteer who has gone above and beyond to support their community? United Way East Ontario’s Community Builder Awards program accepts nominations year-round! Nominate a Community Builder today!
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