WICC Ontario Announces Leadership Transition: Honouring Marilyn Horrick’s Legacy and Welcoming Amanda Martin as Co-Chair

TORONTO, ON, DECEMBER 17, 2025/insPRESS/ – The Ontario chapter of the Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade (WICC) announces an important leadership transition that reflects both the strength and continuity of its mission. After more than twenty years of extraordinary service, Marilyn Horrick will be stepping into the role of Past Co-Chair, with Amanda Martin assuming the position of Co-Chair, WICC Ontario, effective January 2026.

Marilyn’s influence on WICC has been profound. A dedicated volunteer and respected industry leader, she has played a pivotal role in shaping WICC into the Canadian insurance community’s charity of choice. During her tenure, WICC experienced significant and sustained growth, expanding annual fundraising from approximately $3 million to more than $20 million nationally. Her vision and commitment helped broaden WICC’s impact across Canada, strengthen partnerships, and inspire greater participation across the insurance industry.

Throughout her leadership, Marilyn championed a moreconnected and modern organization, embracing digitization through the expansion of WICC’s website and the introduction of more robust social media and digital engagement strategies.She alsoplayed an instrumental role on WICC Ontario’s working board, leading multiple portfolios and helping to foster a highly collaborative, volunteer-driven culture.

Marilyn was a strong advocate for broadening WICC’s reach across the insurance community, helping to open the organization to new segments of the industry, including the formation of WICC NeXt Gen to engage emerging leaders. She was also a driving force behind the launch of WICC Tribute programs, creating new ways for the community to honour industry leaders while advancing WICC’s fundraising mission.

Her leadership guided WICC through socio-economically challenging years, while also marking major milestones, including the organization’s 25th anniversary. Her legacy, commemorated in the video produced by her WICC colleagues, is one of compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication.

As she transitions from Co-Chair to Past Co-Chair, Marilyn will continue to play an active role on the WICC Ontario board, offering continuity, mentorship, and invaluable experience.

“Serving WICC has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” said Marilyn Horrick. “What began as a small but passionate effort has grown into a truly national movement, driven for almost three decades by volunteers who care deeply about making a difference – and having some fun along the way. I am incredibly proud of what our beautiful insurance community has built together and grateful to have worked alongside so many dedicated leaders and supporters over the years.”

Amanda Martin, Director at Northridge Insurance, fellow WICC Board member, and past Chair of the Relay for Life event, will assume the role of Co-Chair of WICC Ontario, succeeding Marilyn. Amanda has been a committed volunteer and valued member of the WICC community, sharing her passion for fundraising, event leadership, and industry engagement. Her appointment represents the next generation of leadership and reinforces WICC’s commitment to evolving while remaining grounded in its foundational mission.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to serve alongside Marilyn for so many years,” said Garth Pepper, Co-Chair, WICC Ontario. “Her leadership, her heart, and her unwavering commitment to this cause have shaped WICC into the organization it is today. On behalf of the board and the entire insurance community, I want to thank Marilyn for her extraordinary service. I’m grateful for the years we worked together, and I’m equally thrilled to welcome Amanda into this role as we look toward WICC’s future.”

This transition, announced at the 2025 WICC Ontario Breakfast, reflects WICC’s continued focus on strengthening its volunteer leadership, expanding its presence across Canada’s insurance industry, and advancing its mission to fund vital cancer research and education initiatives.

About WICC:
Since its inception in 1996, WICC and the individuals who work in the property and casualty insurance industry in Canada have raised over $22 million nationally in support of cancer research and education. WICC’s mission is to unite and engage the Canadian insurance community to fund cancer research, educate, and improve the lives of those affected by cancer. More information about WICC can be found at wicc.ca. 

Media Contacts:

Joëlle Lafrenière
Co-Chair, Communications, WICC Ontario
jlafreniere@cep-experts.ca

Janice Merkley
Co-Chair, Communications, WICC Ontario
janice.m@daystarlimited.com