HAMILTON-WENTWORTH CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
EA Awarded King Charles III Coronation Medal

With over five decades of volunteer work, Margaret Feher has spent the better part of her life devoting her time to others.

Since the early age of 14, the Educational Assistant at St. Maragret Mary Catholic Elementary School has been part of numerous volunteer organizations, including the Sisters of St. Joseph, L'Arche Inclusion Coffeehouse, Rygiel, and the Good Shepherd.

Reminiscing on her first volunteer assignment working with orphaned children with disabilities, Feher described it as a calling from God.

"One young girl that's in heaven now, for 15 years I took her to mass."

And while she undoubtedly made a difference in each person she helped; Feher will tell you she's the one who's grateful.

"It's made me a better person," she said. "I find God in each person... I meet Jesus in each one."

Since Covid, Feher can be seen at St. Patrick's De Mazenod Door Outreach, where she prepares and serves food to Hamilton's unhoused and vulnerable population.

"They were looking for people that were not afraid to go out amongst the poor," recalling how she became connected with the organization, adding it opened her eyes to the value and dignity of human life.

Her selfless contributions have not gone unnoticed. At an award ceremony last month, Feher was joined by other honourees to accept the King Charles III Coronation Medal for significant contributions to the community.

"This medal represents not just an acknowledgement of their past achievements but also a profound respect and gratitude from our community and our nation for the role they continue to play in advancing and shaping Canadas future," said the Honourable Filomena Tassi.

At the school level, Feher regularly shares her experience with the students, underscoring the transformative power of volunteering and the interconnectedness of the community.

"Margaret is the epitome of Christ's hands, feet and eyes on our earth," said Feher's former Principal, and current Assistant Superintendent of Education, Adrienne Coletto.

"She demonstrates the utmost compassion, love and care for everyone. In my career I have never met a more Christ-centered and dedicated employee. Margaret never complains, is always flexible and sees each student as a child of God. Margaret's passion is about giving back."

This year, Feher is planning her retirement as an E.A., but you can bet that will mean more time for volunteering.

Constantly thinking of how she can give back, Feher dreams of starting up her own non-profit organization for affordable housing.

"Margaret is one of the most humble people to grace our community, she asks for nothing and will often state how fulfilling her life has been."

"She is truly worthy of receiving this award," added Principal Adrian De Tullio. "She enthusiastically serves to support the students in her care, the needs of the school, and the broader community with dedication and humility."