OPP officer, nurse awarded for outstanding community service

Nottawasaga OPP District Police Officer Kathryn Vicari and Cathy Isner of the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Department (SMDHU) were recognized this week for their continued excellence in community service.

OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrick presented them with the awards at a special ceremony at OPP headquarters on Thursday. These two individuals were honored for their commitment to building trust, improving the safety and well-being of the community, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of residents.

"I am very honored to receive this award," Vicari said in a phone interview with CTV News. "Ultimately, what we're trying to focus on is the public awareness campaigns we've been running for the past five years."

"It was a great honor to be recognized for what we do," Isner said. "It was a real honor to be recognized for a campaign that came from the right place to build empathy."

Isner is a nurse who works in SMDHU's Substance Abuse and Injury Prevention Program. He and Vicari have worked together since 2020 on numerous public awareness campaigns to save lives about opioids, drug abuse, addiction and mental health.

Vicari started as a Toronto police officer in 2009 and joined the OPP in 2017. He is recognized by his fellow officers for his commitment to positive community involvement and dedication to public service.

Nottawasaga OPP Lt. and Chief Operating Officer Kevin Bucknor said, “Officer Vicari's dedication to the community shows the true spirit of service. "His steadfast commitment is evident daily as he goes above and beyond the call of duty to connect with the people he is sworn to serve and ensure our community feels safe and supported."

Vicari says that the circumstances of his father's death motivated him to sacrifice and commit to service.

"In 2017, I was the one who found my father dead by suicide," Vicari recalled. I'm not saying it would have made a difference, but being aware of local service providers and resources is very helpful, not only for the person affected by a mental health crisis, but also for loved ones trying to support someone going through a mental health challenge. So for me this is a personal project."

While Vicari is on mental health leave, she says she plans to continue her campaigns and initiatives when she returns to work.

"Kindness is free," Vicari added. There is no cost. "If we can just treat each other through a lens of empathy and compassion, I think the world would be a better place."

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