Brenda Huber
Community Pillars
Brenda Huber’s lifelong commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate community is defined by quiet leadership, tireless service, and a deep sense of responsibility to those most in need. From her early years growing up in a military family to her decades of volunteerism in Ottawa, Brenda has continuously demonstrated what it means to turn empathy into meaningful action.
In the 1990s, Brenda helped coordinate the now iconic Hope Volleyball tournament, which has evolved into Hope Volleyball Summerfest, raising significant funds for Ottawa charities. That formative experience sparked a long-standing commitment to local service. Over the years, Brenda has volunteered at the Ottawa Mission, serving meals to people facing food insecurity, and walked in solidarity at events like Take Back the Night, the December 6th Vigil, and the Good Companions’ Walk of Ages. Whether raising awareness or rolling up her sleeves, Brenda has consistently shown up for her community.
Later, Brenda’s volunteer work with Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO) shaped a more focused mission: helping women rebuild their lives after fleeing violence. At IWSO, she taught English and helped women prepare for the Canadian citizenship test thereby gaining a deeper understanding of the barriers women face when starting over. Moved by these stories, Brenda wanted to do more.
In 2009, Brenda met Gislaine Hamelin, a kindred spirit who shared her passion for supporting women escaping abuse. Together, they co-founded Ottawa Basketeers, a grassroots initiative inspired by a simple yet powerful idea: to provide women leaving shelters with laundry baskets filled with essential household items. These carefully prepared baskets offer women practical support and, more importantly, the message that their community sees and values them.
Since its inception, Ottawa Basketeers has supported five local shelters, including Interval House of Ottawa, distributing baskets during spring and fall donation drives. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, shelter closures, and economic pressures, Brenda and Gislaine have remained steadfast, organizing and rallying volunteers to ensure no woman is forgotten. Their program has become a critical support for shelters and a symbol of solidarity and hope for hundreds of women and children.
Brenda’s leadership and compassion have been recognized through multiple awards, including the Ontario Leading Women Building Communities Award (2015), Nelson House Women’s Shelter Appreciation Award (2016), and the Basketeers National 10-Year Appreciation Award (2019). Yet, those who know her would say the real reward for Brenda is knowing she’s made a difference in someone’s life.
Brenda Huber has built a legacy of empathy in action. Whether quietly organizing behind the scenes or standing beside women rebuilding from trauma, she continues to be a pillar of strength, community, and care. Her enduring impact through Ottawa Basketeers and countless volunteer initiatives makes her a truly distinguished woman.
