Ron Lawless has had a steadfast and wide-reaching impact on his community. Dedicated to helping disenfranchised people across Montreal, he has long been involved with the Old Brewery Mission. Under his leadership, this organization has expanded its facilities and its ability to care for the homeless. Over the years, he has also provided guidance on the boards of Bishop's University, Concordia University and the Lakeshore General Hospital. A former head of CN and VIA Rail, he is known for his commitment to Canada's transportation infrastructure and was inducted in 2004 into the Canadian Railway Hall of Fame in 2004.