The James Cardinal McGuigan (JCM) community is honoured to recognize Linda Novembre, a quiet, humble, and unsung hero who has spent the past 20 years bringing joy, hope, and life-changing experiences to students across the Toronto Catholic District School Board.
Through her long-standing involvement with Dreams Take Flight, Linda nominates three deserving TCDSB students each year to receive a once-in-a-lifetime trip — a day filled with magic, excitement, and memories that families cherish forever. Her work is not publicized, yet its impact is profound.
This year, for the very first time, Linda reached out to James Cardinal McGuigan and asked our school to identify three students whose personal journeys, resilience, and character align with the program’s criteria. This was not a partnership, but rather a meaningful gesture: an invitation from Linda to include our community in something deeply special.
Thanks to her generosity, three JCM families have now been selected and will be travelling with Dreams Take Flight this spring. While we cannot yet reveal the names — as the students have not been notified — we look forward to formally announcing the recipients in the new year.
The photos from past Dreams Take Flight experiences demonstrate the incredible joy that Linda helps create: students proudly standing beside the plane, volunteers cheering them on, friends posing in excitement, and even Minnie Mouse peeking from the cockpit, ready to welcome them. These images reflect the pure magic children feel on that unforgettable day.
Linda, your heart is bigger than the world. For two decades, you have changed lives quietly, compassionately, and with unwavering dedication. The JCM community is deeply grateful that you thought of us this year, and we will never forget the opportunity you have provided to our families.
On behalf of the entire James Cardinal McGuigan community:
Thank you for your kindness, your humility, and your 20 years of service to children across the TCDSB.
Your legacy of joy continues to shine brightly.
