Tracey Evans
Community Pillars
For the past eight years, Tracey has been a dedicated and compassionate leader within Ottawa’s community sector, making a profound impact through her volunteer service with Shelter Movers. A national, volunteer-powered charitable organization, Shelter Movers provides free moving and storage services to individuals and families fleeing abuse, helping survivors—primarily women and children—transition safely and with dignity to lives free from violence.
Tracey began volunteering with Shelter Movers Ottawa in April 2018 after discovering the organization through social media. Within hours of completing orientation, she signed up for her first move, beginning what would become an extraordinary commitment to supporting survivors of gender-based violence. Since then, she has contributed to more than 60 moves and volunteered over 300 hours of direct service, offering not only practical assistance but also compassion, stability, and reassurance during some of the most vulnerable moments in people’s lives.
Recognized for her calm leadership and unwavering reliability, Tracey became a Lead Mover in 2019, assuming greater responsibility in coordinating teams, serving as a key contact for clients and move coordinators, and liaising with police and security services during high-risk situations. Her ability to remain composed under pressure has been invaluable. Whether responding to unexpected crises or navigating emotionally charged circumstances, Tracey consistently ensures that survivors feel safe, respected, and supported throughout the moving process.
Beyond her frontline volunteer work, Tracey has also become one of Shelter Movers Ottawa’s most influential community champions and fundraisers. In 2019, she and her partner launched an annual fundraising curling bonspiel in support of the organization. What began as a modest initiative raising $3,000 has grown into a highly anticipated community event that has raised more than $84,000 over seven tournaments.
Each year, Tracey personally contacts hundreds of local businesses and community partners to secure sponsorships and raffle donations, cultivating a broad network of supporters committed to addressing gender-based violence. Through her efforts, she has not only generated critical funding but also increased awareness and engagement around the challenges survivors face.
Professionally, Tracey has spent more than a decade working in the non-profit sector, bringing both expertise and integrity to her volunteer leadership. Even while pursuing her doctorate and preparing for motherhood, she has remained actively engaged with Shelter Movers, continuing to serve whenever possible with remarkable dedication and humility.
Tracey’s impact extends far beyond individual acts of service. Through leadership, advocacy, and tireless volunteerism, she has strengthened community networks, mobilized meaningful support for survivors, and helped create a safer, more compassionate Ottawa. Her commitment exemplifies the true spirit of community leadership and service.
