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Due to unfortunate circumstances, Tony faced a very chaotic childhood. After experiencing a number of residence changes, he was placed into the care of Family & Children's Services. By that point in his life, Tony had developed a mistrust of adults and a heightened anger at his situation which lacked the stability necessary to develop a sense of security. This led to his admission into residence at Vanier in 1976.

While in residence, Tony faced a number of challenges. It was necessary for him to test the adults around him in order to be sure of the stability of this placement. The staff at Vanier understood Tony's reaction and took the necessary steps to help him reach his goals and gain confidence in himself and renewed trust in others.

Many youth facing these challenges would not be willing to allow themselves the vulnerability required to change and move on. At Vanier, Tony was given that opportunity and took full advantage of all that was offered.

After leaving high school, Tony took a job at Cold Springs Farm. Here, he was Union representative for several years and then Vice-President and President of the Union. As if that were not enough, Tony was the WSIB representative as well. Unfortunately, at that point, a fire destroyed the plant that he worked in at Cold Springs Farm and the parent company, Maple Leaf decided not to rebuild. Tony, not one to be stopped by a challenge, then used his skills to start his own business, Villeneuve Auto Tech where he is an expert in auto body repair.

For the past 33 years, Tony has maintained his links to Vanier through the strong friendships he established. Tony is a kind and loyal friend who is empathetic to others and always willing to lend a hand. We honour Tony for his courage in the face of adversity and for his resilience in becoming the man he is today. Congratulations, Tony! (Written and read by Fay Sutherland, Principal, W.D. Sutton School at the Roots & Wings Awards, held June 16, 2009.)