Dentist honoured at volunteer award ceremony as ‘community leader’

FERGUS – Dr. Raj Khanuja, founder of National Dental Care Day, has been recognized with a special mention in the “community leader” category of Canada’s Volunteer Awards.

Khanuja, a long-time advocate for accessible oral healthcare, was honoured during a national awards ceremony in Ottawa on May 28 recognizing outstanding volunteer leaders from across Canada, according to a news release.

Khanuja has dental offices in Fergus and Hillsburgh, and outside of Wellington County.

The award recognizes over two decades of volunteer service dedicated to improving access to dental care for under-served Canadians and building a culture of volunteerism within the dental profession.

What began as a grassroots initiative called Doing Positive in My Backyard has grown into a movement inspiring dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, students, suppliers and community partners to provide care to those facing financial and social barriers to dental care.

Through volunteer-led free dental care days, thousands of dollars in dental services have been provided to low-income seniors, newcomers, working families, individuals with disabilities and others who might otherwise go without care.

In 2025, Khanuja launched National Dental Care Day, inviting dental professionals across Canada to dedicate a day of service to their communities. 

The initiative continues gaining momentum, with more than 40 municipalities across Canada proclaiming Oct. 10 this year as National Dental Care Day.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition,” Khanuja said in the release.

“This award belongs to the many dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, administrative teams, suppliers, students and community partners who have shared in this vision.

“Volunteerism is about restoring dignity, self-confidence, mental health and human connection. Together, we have demonstrated the extraordinary impact that compassionate care can have on individuals and communities.”

The recognition includes a certificate signed by Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledging Khanuja’s volunteer contributions and community leadership.

As part of the award, the Government of Canada provided a $2,500 grant, which Khanuja directed to the faculty of dentistry at the University of Toronto to support the next generation of dental professionals.

“National Dental Care Day was built on a simple belief that everyone deserves access to care and the opportunity to smile with confidence,” said Khanuja. 

“My hope is that one day National Dental Care Day will be observed in every community across Canada, from coast to coast.”

Khanuja has previously been recognized with the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship, the Canada 150 Medallion and the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award. His dental organization has also received the Canadian Business Excellence Award multiple times.

Khanuja hopes this recognition will inspire others to volunteer, mentor and use their talents to make a difference, stated the release.

“What began as one volunteer dentist helping people in his own community has grown into a national movement demonstrating the power of compassion, volunteerism and professional responsibility,” he said.

For more information visit nationaldentalcareday.ca.