This Windsor man is Make-A-Wish Canada's national volunteer of the year

A Windsor man is among four exceptional individuals across Canada who have been selected as volunteers of the year for Make-A-Wish — recognizing their outstanding contributions.

Over a 20-year period, Jim Scott has helped to grant 60 wishes to children with critical illness. Additionally, he led fundraising efforts that have brought in more than $2 million to Make-A-Wish.

"It's really an honour and it's been a 22 or 23 year journey, so I couldn't be more proud," Scott said on Windsor Morning. Scott was recognized as the national recipient from volunteers across Canada

"I was really surprised. Windsor and Essex, we've done so much with Make-A-Wish… I'm just like the gatekeeper or something because we've got amazing volunteers here, amazing wish granters here."

Scott said he and his wife have "met so many incredible kids" over the years, adding that when they get their wishes granted, it's really "life changing."

"I've run into children — they've battled back through crazy illnesses and stuff and I've met them on the streets or at a park or somewhere and it's just so incredible to see them living life to their fullest at that point in time," he said.

'Passionate about making a difference for children'

Scott said one of the stories that has stuck with him was when he helped a boy named Devin get his "incredible wish" — meeting Selena Gomez. 

After the meeting in her dressing room at a concert, "we ended up sitting in great seats and listening to her sing songs, and I think Devin sang every single word of every single song. So really, really a wonderful opportunity."

The awards were announced as part of National Volunteer Week.

Meaghan Stovel McKnight, the CEO of Make-A-Wish Canada, said this year's award winners are an example of dedication, empathy, and selfless service.

"Our volunteers are passionate about making a difference for children with critical illness and they are vital to our success," she said in a news release.

Scott said there's a high demand for Make-A-Wish in Windsor-Essex.

Make-A-Wish granted 490 wishes in Ontario last year. Across Canada, a total of 39,000 wishes have been granted for over the past 40 years.