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CHARITY PROFILES
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AI? 'We can't be a humane society without humans'
When we were brainstorming ideas for the feature story in this year’s Giving Guide, we quickly agreed on one topic: artificial intelligence and the charitable sector.
It seemed like a no-brainer. After all, who among us is not grappling with the prospect (or perhaps the reality) of AI, whether in the public or private sector? But we were curious. What do those deliberations look like in the non-profit world?
Even in these relatively early days, it’s easy to be enticed by the efficiencies that AI promises to deliver. As Ottawa fundraising strategist Sam Laprade says, “Many people who were thinking AI wasn’t for the non-profit world are embracing it more and more and it’s not about replacing people; it’s about efficiency.”
As Mia Jensen’s article points out, there are multiple applications for AI in the charitable sector, from writing letters and blurbs to analyzing data and supporting prospecting. But, at what cost?
As is the case in the private sector, there are concerns about data security, accuracy and ethics. Just like any large financial institution or retailer, the average charity has reams of sensitive info about donors and supporters. There is also the interesting debate about whether AI can remove human bias, or help to portray those in sensitive situations without using the image of a “real person.” It’s hard to argue that there are many potential benefits.
But what got me is this line from Sharon Miko at the Ottawa Humane Society: “Our philosophy is that AI is not going to replace people; it will replace tasks ... We want to use AI as a tool to empower our team to do even more for the animals. We can’t be a humane society without humans.”
After all, for most people, buying a product or a service is a practical decision. You need it, you buy it. But supporting or donating to a charity comes from a much different place. It’s based on a personal connection, a strongly held belief or a desire to give back or pay it forward. It’s about people and human emotion. It’s not the place for robotic interactions or “fake” imagery.
David Gourlay from the Shepherds of Good Hope Foundation shares that, “We certainly see the potential of (AI). We certainly see a world where we will invest some time, potentially some resources, into it. But at this point in time, I want to build a foundation that is in the community, day in and day out, and there’s no replicating that (with AI).”
Emily Jones Joanisse of Connected Canadians echoes that sentiment: “As an organization that prides itself on human connection, that robotic feel really stands out.”
So what’s the answer? How can cash-strapped charities get the benefits of AI while avoiding the pitfalls? Yacouba Traoré, executive director of the Carlington Community Health Centre and co-author of Understanding and Using AI: A Resource for Nonprofit Leaders, offers some great advice and insights. In his words, “(AI) could be a tool that could really help them close the resource gap and elevate the game. I saw that we could not miss the boat as a sector on this. If we do, we are missing out on something that is really transformative for the sector.”
Anne Howland Editor in Chief OBJ’s Giving
Guide
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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND THE NONPROFIT SECTOR
Efficient, yes, but at what cost?
By Mia Jensen
Like many charities, the Ottawa Humane Society is a busy place and, according to president and CEO Sharon Miko, its employees and volunteers are never short of jobs to do.
With more than 7,000 animals passing through the doors every year, the work can feel endless. And with so many systems and regulations in place to ensure each cat, bird, dog and rabbit gets the best possible care, Miko said her team spends a lot of time searching through standard operating procedures and checking off menial tasks.
That’s why, she said, the organization decided to embrace artificial intelligence.
“We pretty quickly realized that using AI was going to help us find efficiencies in the work that we do,” said Miko. “We’re always looking at ways that we can help make that work more efficient so that we can do more to help these animals.”
Like most organizations tackling AI, Miko said the OHS had to start small. With limited understanding of the technology and no idea which programs would be best suited to it, AI was initially implemented in the most basic ways: writing and proofreading documents and emails, creating social media posts and whipping up colourful profiles for adoptable animals to post on the website.
But from there, the organization became more experimental. Now, AI is helping to create operating procedures, track and analyze data, and brainstorm solutions to problems. In meetings, Miko said the team often discusses whether AI could be useful when trying something new.
“It’s not replacing the work we do; it’s making it easier,” said Miko. “It’s helping us move faster. Because, let’s face it, society is moving forward at such a fast pace that, to be able to keep up, we’re going to have to work differently.”
The changes have necessitated policy updates. For example, Miko said staff know not to enter any proprietary information, including donor details, into a chatbot. Another key piece is that AI users at OHS are accountable for errors. While staff can use AI to enhance a report, she said it’s also their job to ensure the AI didn’t make any mistakes.
Part of that responsibility also falls on leadership. “We needed to make sure our teams were trained on that and understood those limitations. It’s making them understand and being clear that any information they got from AI needed to be verified,” Miko said. “(But) while they still need to validate that information, it gives them such a fast starting point. They were able to find information so much more quickly.”
While OHS will continue to look for ways to implement AI, Miko said one thing is clear: AI doesn’t work without the human touch.
“Our philosophy is that AI is not going to replace people; it will replace tasks,” she said. “It will make workflows easier, it will help people do a better job at what they do best. We want to use AI as a tool to empower our team to do even more for the animals. We can’t be a humane society without humans.”
AI PROVIDES RELIEF AFTER TOUGH YEARS
“Our philosophy is that AI is not going to replace people; it will replace tasks. It will make workflows easier, it will help people do a better job at what they do best."
- SHARON MIKO, CEO, OTTAWA HUMANE SOCIETY
other essential services.
Since ChatGPT was released to the public in November 2022, the private sector has jumped on the AI bandwagon. In its fifth annual report on small and medium-sized businesses, Microsoft found that the majority of Canadian organizations surveyed had embraced the technology, with 71 per cent actively using it in their operations. The report also found that 75 per cent planned to increase investment in AI and 63 per cent were prioritizing generative AI.
Charitable organizations, though cautious, are following suit. In a 2025 survey by the Charity Insights Canada Project (CICP), 37 per cent of respondents said they used AI for grant and proposal writing, 35 per cent used it for marketing and social media management, and 17 per cent used AI tools for donor engagement and relationship management.
“The non-profit sector is really embracing AI and I’ve seen such a big shift in the last year or 18 months,” said Ottawa fundraising strategist Sam Laprade. “Many people who were thinking AI wasn’t for the non-profit world are embracing it more and more and it’s not about replacing people, it’s about efficiency.”
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Laprade said charities have been feeling the pinch. Many lost donors as Canadians cut back on spending, while also dealing with increased operating costs. The tariff situation, Laprade said, complicated finances and sponsorships became increasingly scarce.
For charities, the stakes are high, she said. If an organization can’t keep up with costs, hundreds of people can be left without food, housing or
With those pressures in mind, Laprade said she isn’t surprised to see an uptick in AI adoption within the sector.
“Five years ago, I would’ve been like, ‘I’m not touching AI ever.’ Now, I’m one of the ones (pushing for it),” she said. “It’s about making those jobs just a little bit easier, to be able to put some processes behind some of that data we collect. I think AI will see a big boom in the next five years.”
ETHICAL CONCERNS, STRETCHED RESOURCES
But while AI adoption is up, not all organizations are ready to take the leap. According to the CICP report, 35 per cent of respondents had not experimented with any AI tools. While most respondents held either a neutral or positive view of the potential of AI, more than half remained concerned about privacy and data security issues, as well as ethical concerns around AI’s decisionmaking and biases.
The Shepherds of Good Hope Foundation is one organization that doesn’t have AI on its priority list, according to its CEO David Gourlay.
“In terms of our daily use of it, we’re obviously using it when it comes to very basic, basic, basic AI,” he said. ‘It’s helping us to prospect our research and craft narratives and stories. But we are also very focused on being totally authentic and ethical.”
In the charitable world, Gourlay said, data is abundant and needs to be protected. While his organization “wants to be very courageous about AI,” it also needs to be cautious. Mishandling donor data and breaching donor privacy, he said, are top concerns when it comes to implementing AI.
“Many people who were thinking AI wasn’t for the non-profit world are embracing it more and more and it’s not about replacing people, it’s about efficiency."
- SAM LAPRADE, OTTAWA FUNDRAISING STRATEGIST
“It’s helping us to prospect our research and craft narratives and stories. But we are also very focused on being totally authentic and ethical.”
- DAVID GOURLAY, CEO, SHEPHERDS OF GOOD HOPE FOUNDATION
So far, his organization has been trying tools that are integrated into the systems it already uses, such as Microsoft’s Copilot, which can perform simple tasks with the click of a button. But in terms of digging deeper, Gourlay said, “We’re not there yet.”
“We have not had those conversations internally in terms of the back-end operational efficiency. We certainly see the potential of it. We certainly see a world where we will invest some time, potentially some resources, into it. But at this point in time, I want to build a foundation that is in the community, day in and day out, and there’s no replicating that (with AI).”
At an organizational level, there are several barriers that make it difficult for some charities to pursue AI, according to Bronwen Dearlove, president of the Ottawa chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).
“(Barriers) include things like skills shortages, lack of awareness around AI, and time and financial constraints,” she said. “Charities often work on a shoestring budget, particularly smaller charities. We have to defend every dollar we spend. So a lot of us are using free versions of software or none at all.”
From her perspective at AFP, Dearlove said ethical concerns have been particularly prevalent, with charitable organizations striving to maintain “ethical fundraising practices” while protecting donor data. She said concerns have also been raised about bias.
To help charities navigate the uncertainty, AFP has been offering workshops and training sessions aimed at organizations that might not have the expertise or resources to do the work themselves.
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How charities can leverage AI
ANALYZE FILES AND DATASETS
Predictive AI can digest and analyze large volumes of data to forecast and model out future outcomes. A charity will feed the computer program an aggregate of files, such as revenue information or historical donor records, and the AI will analyze the dataset and identity patterns, make predictions or anticipate future behaviour. Charities can leverage the predictive capabilities of AI for tasks like audience segmentation or personalizing donor journeys.
CHATBOTS FOR CUSTOMER SUPPORT
Chatbots mimic human conversation. They field questions and provide real-time answers that are customized to the user’s specific inquiry. Chatbots function by interpreting the inputted information and translating it into a custom output — providing fast, personalized customer support to website visitors at all times of the day or night. The chatbot will need to be trained, tested and refined over time.
PROTECT THE SAFETY OF PEOPLE ACCESSING CHARITIES
Many charities carry out work in highly sensitive areas. To protect the privacy and safety of people accessing services for addiction or mental health or to safeguard the confidentiality of individuals who use food banks or crisis shelters, charities often opt against sharing photos or images of real people. Without photos, however, the visual stories these charities can tell are limited. AI images allow charities to illustrate their story with life-like photos that don’t stigmatize or jeopardize the safety of the people pictured.
HELP AVOID STEREOTYPES
Using AI-generated photos can help charities avoid inadvertently playing into, or amplifying, stereotypes about the people they are seeking to help. Traditionally, charitable organizations have been limited to using photos of people who consent to their use. With AI, however, charities have the ability to generate any images they wish. Charities can create photos that disrupt harmful stereotypes and tell a fresh story about the types of people organizations can help.
A WRITING ASSISTANT
Ask AI the right questions, refine those questions, input new written prompts and receive a final output of a unique copy. From generating user experience copy for your website, first drafts of email newsletters, social media posts, marketing campaign materials or press releases, generative AI is a useful writing assistant. Remember, since AI is prone to bias and/or factual error, whatever it generates will need to be edited and fact-checked by a human.
SOURCE AND WRITE GRANTS
Securing grants and funding is the bread-and-butter of the charitable sector. It’s also an area where AI can assist and help successfully source grants and assist with the cumbersome aspects of writing proposals. AI contains powerful features for charity grant writing. The research capabilities of AI can be leveraged to find the relevant grants. And charities can employ the generative capabilities to create first drafts, refine narratives for clarity or meaning and help streamline the entire grant process.
BE AWARE, PREDICTIVE AI CAN ANALYZE MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF HIGHLY SENSITIVE DATA
Before uploading any secure information to an AI, assess the security risks involved and establish an organizational policy outlining ethical use of AI. Research the privacy policies of the major AI platforms on the market and select one where data security is paramount. Unethical adoption of AI can result in privacy violations, legal breaches and damage the integrity of the organization.
Source: CanadaHelps.org, January 2025
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“(Barriers) include things like skills shortages, lack of awareness around AI, and time and financial constraints. Charities often work on a shoestring budget, particularly smaller charities. We have to defend every dollar we spend. So a lot of us are using free versions of software or none at all.”
- BRONWEN DEARLOVE, PRESIDENT, OTTAWA CHAPTER OF THE ASSOCIATION OF FUNDRAISING
PROFESSIONALS (AFP)
“We’re seeing more and more demand for training around AI,” she said. “Our last one-day conference had multiple sessions about using AI. Many of the proposals that came to us to present that day (came from) a large component of people ready to share their skills about using AI effectively in the charitable world. What I have seen most prominently are those questions about ethics, about policies, templates and samples. (Charities are) looking to AFP to see what pitfalls they might not be aware of yet.”
A REASON IS NEEDED TO MAKE A COMMITMENT
Despite concerns, people across all age groups are eager to learn more about how they can use AI, according to Emily Jones Joanisse, who works with older adults as president and CEO of digital literacy non-profit Connected Canadians.
“We’ve definitely had a lot of interest just from the general public,” said Jones Joanisse. “(Connected Canadians) ran a huge workshop on learning how to navigate ChatGPT and everyone was so engaged and interested to understand how they can use it in their lives. You can tell there’s a huge appetite and you don’t have to be in the workplace to harness it.”
In her experience, AI has become popular for speeding up lengthy tasks such as writing grant applications and proposals. It also has become the tool of choice for English learners, especially new immigrants, who she said can become more comfortable and confident when using AI to help them communicate.
But AI isn’t perfect, she added.
“As an organization that prides itself on human connection, that robotic feel really stands out,” she said. “It’s just the sort of situation where you
want folks to be aware.”
Jones Joanisse also works as an assistant professor at Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business, where she is director of the Sprott Social Impact Hub, which teaches students to apply business skills to the charitable sector.
Instead of resisting the use of AI by students, Jones Joanisse said she expects students to learn and adapt to it. The knowledge students gain from that work, she said, can then be passed on to their employers, including charities and non-profits.
“It’s like I’m giving them an intern, so I expect more of them, both in my experiential classes and in my classroom classes,” she said. “Five years ago, you didn’t have this tool and so you had less time to be able to get this done. So I expect you to be using this appropriately and if you’re not, you’re at a major disadvantage.”
Yacouba Traoré, executive director of the Carlington Community Health Centre, said he’s been blown away by the speed and quality of AI to date, but realizes that keeping up with the pace of change would be a challenge for the charitable sector. Alongside Daniel Livvarcin, he co-wrote Understanding and Using AI: A Resource for Nonprofit Leaders
“(AI) could be a tool that could really help them close the resource gap and elevate the game,” he said. “I saw that we could not miss the boat as a sector on this. If we do, we are missing out on something that is really transformative for the sector.”
For smaller organizations in particular, Traoré said AI can perform tasks they can’t afford to pay for otherwise, such as bookkeeping, risk management and governance tasks.
But not all organizations are well-positioned to implement a new technology, he said. “We have to be careful, because people are already overwhelmed in the non-profit sector,” he said. “AI should be used
“As an organization that prides itself on human connection, that robotic feel really stands out. It’s just the sort of situation where you want folks to be aware.”
- EMILY JONES JOANISSE, PRESIDENT AND CEO, CONNECTED CANADIANS
“(AI) could be a tool that could really help them close the resource gap and elevate the game. ”
- YACOUBA TRAORÉ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CARLINGTON COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE
not to add more to the plate, but to free up time so people can focus more on value-added work.”
So, where does an organization start? Traoré said there are a number of factors to consider.
“Why do you want to use AI?” he said. “What is the purpose of it? AI cannot just be a core tool that you take out of the box and implement wherever. You need to know, what are you trying to solve? Are you trying to free up time or give more work to you and your staff? Do you have enough quality data to use it? Start with the why. It’s a change management system. Work with the people who ultimately are going to use the AI system to understand and pinpoint their perspective. If you incorporate AI in your process, that needs training.”
Considering these questions, he said, can help determine whether AI is worth pursuing beyond its basic uses.
While he strongly believes that the charitable sector needs to keep pace as AI evolves, Traoré said there are reasons for caution. If he had to rewrite his book today, he said his outlook might be more subdued.
“I immerse myself in AI and I am in no way an expert. But the more I learn about it, the more I am cautioning us as a society to be really intentional about AI, to understand that AI can be for good, but it can also be for bad,” he said. “It is going to be a social choice to use AI for good.”
Flow-through for tech? It’s the billion-dollar question
By Peter Nicholson
In Mark Carney’s “Canada Strong” plan, our prime minister’s priorities are clear.
If there is one theme that unites them all, it is celebrating and uplifting Canada. From “Buy Canadian” to ambitious infrastructure projects to investing in our national security, his plan reflects both a strong sense of nationalism and our shaky relationship with the Trump White House.
But there was one point in the April 2025 plan you may have missed and that will be of particular interest to Canadian charities.
Tucked onto pg. 49 was a provision that, in my mind, could drastically change the fundraising and innovation landscape in Canada.
“A Mark Carney-led government will incentivize investment in innovation, especially Canada’s startups, to help them grow and scale by introducing flow-through shares to our Canadian startup ecosystem, supporting companies in AI, quantum computing, biotech, and advanced manufacturing to raise money faster,” the plan states.
“This builds off the successful model that has drawn investment into Canada’s world-leading mining sector and will help our startups scale up and be the best in the world.”
This small provision in Carney’s plan could mean billions for Canadian charities and billions more for our Canadian technology sector.
I should know.
Since 2006, my firm — WCPD Inc., or WEALTH for short — has been a pioneer in the charity flow-through mining structure. We did the first such deal that year and, ever since, our firm alone has created $1.5 billion in financing for Canadian junior mining projects and more than $350 million for Canadian charities.
A potential new tech tax policy could be a windfall for Canadian charities
risky, based on whether the mining company finds something exciting, or not. So, to de-risk the transaction for Canadians, we bring in a liquidity provider, or institutional guaranteed buyer of those shares. These investment funds, hedge funds or high-net-worth individuals understand these mining companies and are willing to instantly buy those volatile shares at a pre-arranged discount to their stock price.
As a result, the liquidity provider takes on all the stock market risk.
There are no surprises; both the donor and the charity will know the outcome beforehand. The charity receives a cashable cheque and the donor, through those two tax policies, can grind down the cost to donate to as low as a penny — not the usual 50-cent cost when you donate cash.
Our firm (or any charity flow-through provider) handles the entire process for you alongside your accountant or financial adviser.
The key factor here is having tax to pay. If you make more than $250,000 a year or sold an asset and have a large capital gain inside a corporation, charity flowthrough shares with an immediate liquidity provider have become a plain-vanilla way to reduce the cost to donate to any registered charity, enjoyed and trusted by major donors and foundations across Canada.
Charity flowthrough shares could be a major spark to Canadian innovation and our Canadian charities. Will it happen? Only time will tell.
It is a tried-and-true tax structure, much like your RRSP, that combines two Canadian tax policies: flow-through mining exploration shares and your conventional charitable tax receipt.
To incentivize capital in our resource sector, especially in critical minerals for green energy transition, the government offers a 100 per cent tax deduction for every dollar invested. After buying the shares, you can then donate them to charity, unlocking more tax savings.
Normally these flow-through shares would be
Like I said, my company has been leading the field since 2006. And today, almost 20 years later, Prime Minister Carney has shown interest in expanding this tax structure to our technology sector.
Now, to be clear, we don’t know if this new tax law will come to fruition. Meanwhile, we also don’t know what the structure could look like. Will it mirror the charity flow-through model for junior exploration companies? Or be a bit different?
A key aspect of the charity flow-through structure for mining companies is dealing with the risk of early-stage exploration. By giving Canadians tax deductions, the government can laser capital into this crucial — yet vulnerable — stage of the mining process.
Will early-stage technology companies need the same leg-up? My bet is no. In Canada, tech startups are generally able to raise capital in the pre-seed and seed rounds from friends, family and other people in their immediate network when the need is low six figures to as high as $5 million.
The same might be true for Series A or even B rounds, when promising tech companies are seeking
to raise $10 million or even $20 million.
But what about Series C and beyond? When the need is in the tens or even hundreds of millions? This is when American and international venture capital swoop in and take our tech companies away from Canada.
If we want to keep the next Shopify or Fullscript or BlackBerry or Hopper north of the border, that’s where innovation flow-through may come into play. Let’s keep these Canadian companies Canadian. Let’s build our own Silicon Valley and prevent our brightest minds from going elsewhere.
The best part? Imagine financing Canadian technology and innovation while also supporting local charities.
Mining isn’t exactly top of mind for your average Canadian. Mines tend to be in remote areas, out of sight and out of mind. Technology? We live and breathe it, don’t we? It’s a need everyone can relate to.
Charity flow-through shares could be a major spark to Canadian innovation and our Canadian charities. Will it happen? Only time will tell.
What I do know is that the flow-through share policy is quintessentially and uniquely Canadian. It fits perfectly with our new prime minister’s vision for the future, where we’re all on Team Canada.
For decades, Peter Nicholson has been a recognized leader in Canadian tax-assisted investments with a specialized focus on philanthropic tax planning and tax reduction. Through his work with donors, foundations, institutions and boards, he has helped generate in excess of $350 million in client donations. To learn more about how WEALTH (WCPD Inc.) can assist your tax and philanthropic goals, write Peter.Nicholson@wcpd.com
HOCKEY WITH THE HAPKES
Michael Hapke explains why a $1M commitment to Carleton reflects both his past and his principles
By Jeff Todd
Every October, Michael Hapke has an important decision to make.
Do I haul the boards, plexiglass, netting and lights out of storage? Or is this the year I finally stop constructing a hockey rink in my backyard?
Inevitably, the decision is made: the rink is happening, “one more year.”
It’s a painstaking job, one that takes months of preparation, hours upon hours of care, patience and attention, all for that smooth stretch of ice — 104 feet by 44 feet, complete with nets at each end, full boards, overhead lighting and safety netting to keep most of the pucks in play.
In the end, Hapke then asks himself the most important question of all.
“Why do I do this?” he wonders, with a laugh.
The reason is always the same. The thump of the puck on the boards, the sharp ping as it strikes a goalpost, the crisp chill of winter — these are more than sounds and sensations for Hapke, CEO at the Advanced Group of Companies, which consists of Advanced Mortgage Investment Corp., Advanced Capital Corp., Advanced Alternative Lending and Ottawa’s largest mortgage brokerage, Mortgage Brokers Ottawa.
For this leading businessman, who doesn’t exactly have tons of time on his hands, the rink reminds him of his childhood. It brings him peace.
It’s the same reason why Hapke is giving back to the Ottawa community with a historic pledge: a $1-million commitment to Carleton University’s athletic department, transforming the home of the Ravens hockey team into the Advanced Capital Ice House.
“Working with Carleton University on the Ice House has been a very natural fit,” he explains.
“I didn’t play on the hockey team. I didn’t play on the football team. I actually didn’t play on any of the sports teams. I just went to school there. For me, this was an opportunity to give back to an institution that gave me the opportunity to grow and dream, which helped shape my career, and to share the joy that was brought to me by being on the ice. I want to give that to others.”
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Left to right: Suzanne Blanchard, vice-president (students and enrolment) and university registrar, Carleton University; Corrie Hobin, interim chief advancement officer, Carleton University; Michael Hapke, president and CEO, Advanced Group of Companies at the signing ceremony in October.
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The vision came to fruition last month when Hapke attended an official signing ceremony at Carleton.
“We are thrilled that Michael Hapke has chosen to partner with Carleton University in championing life-long athletic excellence,” says Suzanne Blanchard, vice-president (students and enrolment) and university registrar at Carleton. “Through his meaningful investment in Carleton athletics, Mr. Hapke is helping to create a vibrant environment where student-athletes and the Ottawa community can thrive. Thanks to his generous support, the Advanced Capital Ice House will be the focal point of the hockey experience at Carleton whether that’s youth enrolled in hockey camps, varsity athletes or the wider community staying active.”
Hapke says he’s especially pleased that his pledge will send at least four underprivileged athletes to hockey camp each year.
Also on hand for the signing was Peter Nicholson, president and founder of the WCPD Foundation, which specializes in charity flow-through shares, a unique Canadian tax structure that helps bring
down the cost to donate for major donors. Hapke worked with the team at WCPD to stretch his pledge and reach the $1-million mark by making the commitment more tax-efficient.
“Congratulations to Mike Hapke, who is giving back in a big way to his alma mater,” Nicholson says. “First, giving comes from the heart. That’s the motivation. Our goal is to simply make the most of his generosity and bring in the head, so to speak. Charity flow helps unlock so much potential and really takes donors to the next level.”
Long before his success in business and any thought of giving back, Hapke was a hockey player, pure and simple. Not a professional or even the leading scorer on a competitive team. He was just a kid from Toronto in the 1970s who loved hockey.
“There was an outdoor rink around the corner from my house, an old lacrosse box they flooded in the winter months,” he recalls. “Growing up, my mom was a first-generation Canadian and my dad was an
immigrant who came to Canada in the ‘50s. They didn’t know a lot about sports. So I walked to this outdoor rink with my skates on. Back then, I thought it was pretty cool to make sparks on the sidewalk.”
Those endless hours at the outdoor rink helped shape Hapke as a person and created core memories that he carries with him to this day. He recalls an atmosphere where it didn’t matter who you were; rich or poor, young or old. People just played. Kids threw down a couple of boots and a pile of snow for the net. Everyone tossed sticks into the middle of the ice to pick the teams.
As the youngest of four with three older sisters, it was a refuge, a place of belonging, for when Hapke wasn’t hanging out with his dad.
In the 1950s, his father fled post-war Germany to settle in Toronto. Hapke still has the suitcase he brought with him to Canada.
“It was very small and, I assure you, it wasn’t filled with money,” he says.
It’s a constant reminder of what it would have taken for his father to succeed in Canada.
After years of hard work and saving, his dad bought a dump truck. And then another dump truck. Eventually, he had a fleet of four trucks and assisted with the construction of Highway 400 and parts of New City Hall in Toronto. Over the years, he also invested in real estate,
eventually owning a small apartment building, and Hapke recalls his youth spent mopping floors, painting, carrying out the garbage and fixing toilets and stoves — when he wasn’t at the rink, of course.
In fact, Hapke says the principles he learned on the hockey rink and in life are one and the same. There is no “secret sauce” to success, he insists. It is determination, hard work and never losing a battle for the puck. Never quit. But if you do lose, get back up, learn from your mistakes and try again.
His father always pushed him to challenge himself, which is exactly why he ended up in Ottawa at Carleton University. His dad never had the opportunity to attend university, so having his kids go was very important to him.
“School didn’t come easily for me,” Hapke says. “It forced me to really challenge my boundaries and think differently. But I did it. It was what my dad had wanted. When I graduated, I gave my framed degree and school ring to him. It meant more to him than myself at that time.”
Carleton was one of the best experiences of Hapke’s life and, as it turned out, Ottawa fit him like a hockey glove. Hapke met his wife, Terri, and they had two sons, Anderson and Reid. Of course, they are both hockey players.
Ottawa is also where he built his business. Working at TD Canada Trust for almost 20 years, Hapke left a few years after the merger and founded his own business. He hasn’t looked back since. Hapke launched Mortgage Brokers Ottawa in 2005 and the Advanced Group of Companies in 2015, making 2025 the 20th and 10th anniversaries for the companies, respectively.
Today, Hapke’s companies directly employ around 40 people and support more than 80 mortgage brokers in the Ottawa area.
In a career filled with ups, downs and milestones, Hapke sees his $1-million commitment as a “constant
reminder” of how far the Advanced Group of Companies has come, and where it is going.
“We’ve always been a giving organization. We’ve always helped with local food banks, women’s shelters, CHEO, Ronald McDonald House, local sports teams and several other organizations over the years,” he explains.
“For me and my family, this will be a lasting reminder of the hard work that has gone into getting to this point, and we’re not done yet. I just feel very fortunate to be able to make this commitment to the university and I am honoured to have our name on the Ice House. This is something that will stick with me for a very long time.”
In the meantime, hockey continues for the Hapke family. Hapke still plays twice a week with old friends and other business leaders at J.A. Dulude Arena. Like in his youth, the game’s sights, sensations and sounds — and the locker room banter — continue to ground him and bring him peace.
In the backyard this winter, the family ice rink will be back, Hapke’s ultimate sanctuary.
The boys are older now — one is 19 and playing hockey at Bishop’s University, while the other is nearly 16 and playing junior hockey for the Carleton Place Canadians. These days, the boys call their friends to help set up the rink and Hapke plays the role of “foreman.” It’s a ritual of sorts, a reminder of the past and what’s important in life.
“As they get older and their lives get busier, I might have to mothball the hockey rink until the grandkids come along,” he says. Or maybe, they’ll do it for just one more year.
Jeff Todd is an award-winning author and vice-president of marketing and communications at the WCPD Foundation.
How Charity Flow-Through Works
STEP 1:
Buy flow-through shares issued by a Canadian mining company. Every dollar invested in these shares is 100% tax deductible.
STEP 2:
Immediately donate these shares to charity. These shares are then instantly sold to a pre-arranged buyer (liquidity provider) at a prearranged contractual price. This step eliminates any stock market risk to the donor.
STEP 3:
Charity receives the cash proceeds and issues donation tax receipt to the donor, generating a second 100% tax deduction.
THE RESULT: By combining two tax policies (flow-through shares & donations), WCPD can help reduce your taxes and, if you wish to, allow you to give more.
A LEGACY OF LAUGHTER AND LOVE: A TRIBUTE TO RUTH CULL, OUR BELOVED MOLLY PENNY
Our world lost a brilliant spark of colour on Sept. 21, 2025, with the passing of Ruth Cull.
To generations of families at CHEO, she was known by the vibrant glow of her alter ego, Molly Penny, the hospital’s beloved therapeutic clown.
Molly Penny, in her signature blue hair, red nose and colourful polka-dotted shoes, was a beacon of joy. She didn't just walk the halls of the hospital, she illuminated them.
Her professional journey began in 1974 as one of the very first nurses at CHEO, where she spent 27 years in the surgical suites. She brought both her clinical skills and an enormous heart to reassure young patients and their parents before difficult procedures. Then, inspired by a clowning workshop, Ruth crafted her remarkable second chapter. She swapped her scrubs for grease paint, transitioning from clinical care to becoming a pioneer in the healing power of play.
As Molly Penny, Ruth created a lifeline of laughter and hope for kids of all ages. For more than two decades, she redefined care, encouraging kids to be kids within the clinical landscape. Molly Penny's role wasn't merely about distraction; it was about deep connection. With her whimsical antics, quick wit and profound empathy, she met each child exactly where they were, on their terms. To one, she was a sidekick on a mission through space; to another, a fellow conspirator sneaking a rubber chicken into a doctor's stethoscope.
Molly Penny listened deeply, respected a child's fears and invited them to smile — not because they had to, but because they felt safe enough to. She made children feel seen and powerful in situations where they often felt powerless. She demonstrated that laughter, delivered with skill and purpose, truly is medicine. She built a culture at CHEO where joy is not frivolous, but fundamental to healing.
Her influence extended far beyond Ottawa, inspiring other hospitals to embrace therapeutic clowning. She mentored others, ensuring her art continued with integrity and love. Famously handing out her felt “Brown E’s” as a special treat and chairing many a “Bored” meeting, she touched the lives of tens of thousands of kids, families and staff.
Though Molly Penny hung up her oversized shoes in 2022, her legacy is preserved in the very fabric of CHEO. In honour of her steadfast dedication, the Ruth Cull Endowment Fund was established in her name upon
her retirement by her family. This fund supports the Therapeutic Clown program and will hopefully do so for many years to come, ensuring future generations of children find comfort and courage through the magic she created.
As CHEO’s social media channels overflowed with photos and memories from patients and their families, it became a testament to her life lived with unwavering compassion. As we pay tribute to Ruth, we honour not just the laughter she sparked, but the sincerity, comfort and courage she delivered during some families’ darkest times.
Ruth Cull — our beloved Molly Penny — reminds us that healing sometimes arrives with a shared joke and a twinkle in the eye.
Thank you, Ruth and Molly Penny. You made the world, and CHEO, a brighter, kinder and infinitely more magical place. You will be missed very much.
If you wish to honour Ruth’s legacy by donating to the Ruth Cull Endowment Fund, please visit cheofoundation.com.
Ruth Cull — our beloved Molly Penny — reminds us that healing sometimes arrives with a shared joke and a twinkle in the eye.
PHOTO CREDIT: ASHLEY FRASER,
CHARITY PROFILES
YOUR SUPPORT TURNS STRUGGLES INTO SECOND CHANCES
is a recent graduate of the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre
Initially, I wasn’t very invested in my time at Dave Smith as I mainly came to satisfy others’ wishes, including those of my parents, brothers and sisters, as well as my girlfriend.
Although I knew I needed help, I was awfully stubborn and stuck in my destructive, stagnant ways. I didn’t care much about improving myself or areas of my life that are very important to me. I was “going with the flow,” as I used to say. I was comfortable in whatever situation, even though I made no genuine effort to change my ways for the better. I was using substances to cope with my disappointment in myself.
After being in treatment for a couple of weeks, this changed drastically, I learned that I deserve better than the life I had created for myself. I learned that I came to treatment for myself and that I’m here to put effort into improving my quality of life, which in turn will satisfy those who love me.
My goals began to become real as I worked towards them day to day. I met some wonderful people during my stay here – many smart, capable peers who just needed a little help to get back on track as I did. Together, we
experienced ups and downs which ultimately created some strong bonds that I have no doubt will last a lifetime.
The staff members here at DSYTC played a huge role in my success. They provided a comfortable, fun environment that also came with some challenges: I had to learn about my emotions and how to react appropriately to them.
I will never forget my time at Dave Smith. The people I’ve met, the clinical work I’ve done, and the realization of what I deserve to be are all important to my success moving forward.
I will never forget my time at Dave Smith. The people I’ve met, the clinical work I’ve done, and the realization of what I deserve to be are all important to my success moving forward. It’s a bittersweet feeling leaving treatment. I even considered staying for an additional month because of how happy I’ve been here these past few months. But I know it’s my time to go apply what I’ve learned and continue my success.
Moving forward, I will strive to focus on myself, learning more as I go, sharing what I’ve learned, and continuing to better myself so that I can enjoy the happy, satisfying life that I truly deserve. I hope one day I will have the ability to help youth as DSYTC has helped many of us. I sure will miss treatment but it’s my time to go. I’m forever grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given and will be sure to apply all the knowledge I’ve gained from my time here at DSYTC.
Every Gift Opens a New Door
For more information contact Cindy at cindy.m@davesmithcentre.org or 613.594.8333 ext 1201
J.M.
DAVE SMITH YOUTH TREATMENT CENTRE
1-613-594-8333
1-613-594-5623 (Fax) Application Inquiries
Intake for Live-In Treatment Program – Sue Seath
1-613-594-8333 ext. 2205
Email: admissions@davesmithcentre.org
X: DaveSmithYouth
Facebook: davesmithyouthtreatmentcentre
Instagram: davesmithcentre Mike
What we do
A PLACE FOR HEALING AND HOPE
At the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre, we provide a safe and supportive environment where young people can begin their journey toward recovery. Our programs are designed not only to treat addiction and mental health challenges but also to strengthen families and build brighter futures.
From live-in treatment and aftercare support to family services and pro-social activities, every aspect of our work is rooted in compassion, evidence-based practices, and a deep commitment to youth and their loved ones.
Every day, we see the impact of care, connection, and community—and we’re proud to walk alongside youth and families on their path to wellness.
Events + fundraising
TOGETHER, WE CAN CHANGE LIVES
Every gift makes a difference. By supporting the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre, you’re helping young people overcome addiction and mental health challenges, while giving families hope for a brighter future.
Your contribution ensures that youth have access to treatment, compassionate care, and the chance to build a healthy, successful life.
Whether you donate, host an event, or volunteer your time, your support fuels lasting change in our community.
Seeking Support
START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY — RECOVERY STARTS WITH ONE STEP
At the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre, our admissions team is here to guide you through every stage of the process with care and compassion. We believe in healing youth, supporting families, and building brighter futures. Begin your journey today by submitting your application or reaching out to our team for support.
OPTIONS HOUSING
380 Cumberland St. Ottawa, Ont.
K1N 9P3
optionshousing.ca
info@optionshousing.ca
613-241-6363
Year founded: 1989
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $4,870,621.18
Instagram: options_housing Facebook:
LinkedIn:
Norm Turner Chair
What we do
Founded in 1989, Options Housing is a nonprofit organization committed to preventing and ending homelessness in Ottawa. We focus on helping people get out of shelters, off the streets, and into stable, permanent housing with supports. Every team member and every program is focused on meeting people where they are, so we can help them get where they want to go.
OUR PROGRAMS
Supportive Housing
We provide permanent housing to 128 adults who have experienced homelessness. Each of our four supportive housing buildings offers daily on-site supports to tenants.
Liz Wigfull
Vice Chair
Rae Wigglesworth
Treasurer
Lauren Kupferschmid
Secretary
Annie Carruthers
Heather Lachine Al Shadid
Kristin Solvason Dominique Dallaire
How you can help
GIVE
Our donors help us do more to end homelessness in our city, whether it’s by expanding our housing supply, providing welcome kits when someone moves into their new home, or funding food and cooking programs so everyone can enjoy a meal. We can’t do it without donors like you.
Visit optionshousing.ca/donate/ to support our work.
Events + fundraising
Join us on November 30, 2025, for a performance by Ottawa Little Theatre. Last year’s event raised over $14,000 - help us beat that this year!
Housing First
Our team works closely with ~ 175 clients who have experienced chronic homelessness. We help our clients find and maintain permanent housing, and provide ongoing supports after they are housed.
Resource Centres
We operate eight resource centres that support over +1000 Ottawa Community Housing tenants with services ranging from crisis support to community development.
Additional homelessness prevention programs include our Hoarding Assistance Team (HAT) and Peer-Assisted Community Engagement (PACE).
Clockwise from left: An Options Housing tenant with Jellybean. An Options Housing tenant playing the piano. Options Housing staff at a community event.
For more information, contact us at info@optionshousing.ca or follow us on our socials!
Scan the QR code to purchase tickets or visit www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/ optionshousing/events/a-sherlock-carolannual-fundraiser-at-ottawa-littletheatre/
Helping parents and caregivers of children, youth, and young adults facing mental health and addiction challenges find their way forward.
PLEO - PARENTS’ LIFELINE
1544 Carling Ave., Suite M064
Ottawa,Ont. K1Z 7M4
www.pleo.on.ca admin@pleo.on.ca
Year founded: 2020
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $900,391 (2024-2025)
Facebook: /pleo4families
Instagram: /pleo4families
LinkedIn: /pleo-parents-lifeline
Michelle Crogie Executive Director
BOARD MEMBERS
Hedi Gordon Vice Chair
Greg Nesbitt Treasurer
Andre Allen Director
Andrew McCartney Director
Angie Hamson Director
Melissa Jennings Director
What we do
Pleo is a non-profit that supports parents and caregivers of children, youth and young adults facing mental health and addiction challenges. Rooted in lived experience, the organization’s team of family peer supporters provides bilingual help through a helpline, one to one peer support and support groups
How you can help
There are many ways to support families with Pleo. Become a monthly donor to sustain and grow the helpline and support groups, or consider sponsoring the annual Art of Support Gala. Invite Pleo to your workplace for a lunch and learn — many employees may be quietly navigating a child’s mental health challenges and need to know they are not alone. Stay connected by signing up for the newsletter at pleo.on.ca or by following on social media. You can also host or join a community event to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
GIVE
Hedi Gordon Board Chair
Michel Nungisa Director
Motunrayo Adeyemi Director
Nicole Sherling Director
Soley Soucie Director
Rita Haddad Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
INDIVIDUAL
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Donations to Pleo directly fund family peer support programs, ensuring parents and caregivers receive timely, compassionate and culturally responsive support. Contributions help expand helpline capacity, sustain more than 30 monthly support groups and embed peer support in community hubs. Support also enables innovation, including the Youth-Nominated Support also enables innovation, including the Youth Nominated Support Team, and will support increasing ways to serve families, such as increased phone line hours and/or a text support option.
Every gift provides families with hope, tools and connection when they need it most, and helps ensure thousands of families across Eastern Ontario do not face their child’s mental health or addiction challenges alone.
Events + fundraising
ART OF SUPPORT GALA
Now in its second year, the Art of Support Gala is becoming a signature tradition for Pleo. The evening includes art, music and storytelling, with live performances, parent stories and a curated auction. Proceeds raise funds to grow family peer support programs. Learn more at pleo. on.ca/art-of-support
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CAMPAIGNS
Across Eastern Ontario, Pleo participates in community events and awareness campaigns, from youth mental health fairs to education and wellness summits. These efforts aim to raise awareness about Pleo’s services, foster connections with families and reduce isolation for parents and caregivers supporting a child.
CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION
Michelle Crogie
michellec@pleo.on.ca
across Eastern Ontario. Pleo also runs an impactful suicide prevention program called Youth Nominated Support Team (YNST). The programs help families navigate complex systems, reduce feelings of isolation and build resilience.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, Pleo continues to serve as a bridge between families and the mental health system, working to ensure parents do not feel alone while supporting their child’s journey.
VOLUNTEER
Pleo welcomes volunteers who want to support families through advocacy and community connection. The organization is especially seeking parents and caregivers with lived experience supporting their own children’s mental health or substance use challenges. Volunteers may serve on the Parent Advisory Committee, provide input into program development or contribute to advocacy efforts. By sharing their perspectives, volunteers help shape responsive services and ensure families are supported with compassion and dignity.
Artists Jayda Murray and Rick Madore, who donated pieces to the silent auction, speak at the gala.
Local artist Allan André created this live painting during the gala. It was later won by past PLEO board chair, Angela Fenton, in the silent auction.
A Pleo family peer supporter shares resources with families at a community event.
Every young person has their own story, each path is different, but they all lead to a bright future. With your help.
We work alongside young people to help them achieve their goals. From mental health support to employment, shelters and housing to justice services, we’re here for them.
They’re young, and they have big plans. Thanks to your support, young people in Ottawa can get there.
Today’s youth are tomorrow’s innovators, leaders and changemakers. By supporting them now, we secure a thriving future for both them and our community.
Martin Sampson Canadian Parks and Recreation Association
Maria McRae Community Advocate, Lawyer
Balwinderjit Singh
Kapoor MDS Aero Support Corporation
Erika Falconer RBC
Stacey McMillan KPMG
Bobbi Faulkner ValueWerx Inc.
Robert Rheaume CCSR Advisory Services Inc.
TOP FUNDING SOURCES GOVERNMENT
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
Celebrating 65 years in the community this year, the Youth Services Bureau (YSB) is one of the largest and longest serving agencies in Ottawa, serving more than 3,000 youth and families each month in support of their wellbeing. YSB runs two emergency youth shelters and four apartment buildings, offers a range of free youth mental health services, provides employment support, as well as programs for youth in conflict with the law. Central to YSB’s work has been ensuring we have youth voices advising us, allowing us to continually adapt to serving the needs of young people and their families. YSB staff – a group of more than 425 full and part-time professionals
How you can help
Every young person has a unique story. Each journey looks different, but with your support, those paths can lead toward brighter futures. Your donations ensure that mental health services – including our crisis phone and chat lines, walk-In clinics, and youth and family counselling – are always there, free of charge, without long waitlists when young people are struggling.
Safe and stable housing is one of the greatest challenges youth face. Every year, more than 1,400 young people in our region experience homelessness, often because of conflict at home.
Events + fundraising
MIND MATTERS: YSB’s Mind Matters youth mental health speakers’ series provides practical information and guidance to parents, family members, educators, and the community. The series features youth, parents and YSB counsellors sharing their experiences, learnings and expertise. Mind Matters is about sharing strategies to best support young people in our lives who are experiencing mental health issues, and highlights YSB’s range of youth mental health services available – at no cost –to youth 12 and older and their families.
SHELTER ROOM SPONSORSHIP CAMPAIGN:
This ongoing campaign welcomes workplaces of all sizes, along with families and the business community to invest in sponsoring a youth shelter room for one year or longer. Everything changes when you house homeless youth. It’s THE opportunity to stop the cycle of homelessness into adulthood. Your sponsored room is a place to call home for a deserving young person, and we welcome you for a tour to see your investment at work.
RISE & THRIVE: This annual fundraising breakfast takes place in October each year and celebrates youth and their success stories as key members of our community. It’s a bold and lively showcase of YSB’s work and acknowledges the community that invests in making that work come to life. Sponsorships and tables are available for this annual
YSB’s annual RISE & THRIVE breakfast in October rallies the community in support of services for youth and families
working from 22 locations – live the ethos of supporting youth without judgement and regardless of where they live, what they look like, or whom they love.
We serve youth in all their diversity—across cultures, identities, and lived experiences.
Nearly 40% of the youth for whom we provide shelter and housing identify as LGBTQ2S+. At YSB, they are welcomed into a safe, supportive community through our two shelters and four long-term housing programs, where housing, health, and belonging come first.
Community support also enables our team members to provide employment services and job connections, as well as compassionate justice programs for youth involved with the law.
Support from caring community and corporate partners is more than life changing, it’s often life saving. Every young person deserves to feel seen, heard, and cared for. That’s the promise our staff live out every day, with every young person who connects with us for help.
event in June, with each annual event focused on a specific area of YSB’s work with young people.
BIGGEST SUCCESS: YSB is a story of people coming together—of a community that cares and an organization that has grown and adapted to meet the changing needs of youth.
Our work is meaningful when young people get the support they need, right when they need it most. It’s about helping youth in our community learn life skills, find safe shelter, secure jobs, return to school, choose healthier paths, and feel hopeful about their future and their place in the world.
At the heart of it all are YSB’s dedicated staff, walking alongside young people every step of the way. And none of this happens without you—our donors, partners, fellow agencies, and caring community.
As we reflect on 65 years of service, we celebrate both the youth and families we’ve supported, and the community that has worked alongside us every step of the way.
Ottawa’s Young People. Their Future Is Everybody’s Business.
CONTACT INFO: Patti Murphy YSB Foundation pmurphy@ysb.ca and 613-729-0577 ext. 50262
CORNERSTONE HOUSING FOR WOMEN
314 Booth St. Ottawa, Ont.
K1R 7K2
cornerstonewomen.ca
info@cornerstonewomen.ca
613-254-6584
Year founded: 1983
Total Revenue for Last Fiscal Year: $10,942,154
X: HopeCornerstone
Facebook: CornerstoneHousing
Instagram: hopecornerstone
Mark Holzman
Board Chair Anne Marie Hopkins Executive Director
BOARD
MEMBERS
Mark Holzman
Board Chair
Yasmin Khaliq
Vice Chair
Peter Martin
Treasurer
Ann Chaplin
Secretary
Carolyn Faught
Mary Laidlaw
Susan Scotti
Mary-Cate Garden
Matthew Symonds
Sarah Birkett-Martin
Katrina Draper
Rev. Susan Smandych
YPAB MEMBERS
Amin Zahrai
Ami Gagné
Dolapo MacGregorItegbe
Kendra Maxin
Cara Upward
Chloé Cao
Keara Lundrigan
Kate Trottier-Abbott
Katrina Draper
What we do
As a community ministry of the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa, Cornerstone has been supporting women experiencing homelessness for over 40 years. Every year, there are more than 1,400 women experiencing homelessness in our city. Cornerstone provides a continuum of housing and support for women and gender-diverse people in Ottawa that is inclusive and reduces barriers. We support over 300 women every day across our emergency shelter and five supportive housing residences, plus an outreach program
How you can help
GIVE
Amidst ongoing housing affordability, mental health and overdose epidemics, Cornerstone is working harder than ever to care for and support women and gender-diverse individuals experiencing homelessness in Ottawa. This year, we expanded our kitchen, increasing the meals we served from 172,000 to 270,000 – more than a 50% increase. We welcomed our new Executive Director, Anne Marie Hopkins, in June. Our Eccles residence, which houses 46 women, and our new emergency shelter, with 165 beds, both celebrated their first year of operation. We couldn’t have done any of this without you.
OUR WORK IS FAR FROM OVER
While we are disheartened to see the need for emergency shelter and supportive housing continue to grow in our city, we are honoured to continue to provide hope, housing, and healing to women and gender-diverse individuals experiencing homelessness in Ottawa. We are fighting an uphill battle amidst several intersecting crises related to the cost of living, homelessness, mental health, substance use, and gender-based violence. With your generous support, we can continue to make a huge difference in the community. If you feel inspired, please give today at www.cornerstonewomen.ca
GET INVOLVED
The more people in our community who get involved in supporting Cornerstone, the greater impact we can have in providing permanent, supportive housing for women in Ottawa. Here are a few ways you can be a part of our Cornerstone Community:
Host your own event
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa TOP FUNDING SOURCES
Hosting your own event is a great way for you to involve your friends, family, neighbours, and colleagues in making a difference in the lives of vulnerable women in Ottawa. It’s easy to organize a fundraiser in support of Cornerstone Housing for Women, and every bit helps!
Donate food & other items
We keep an up-to-date wish list of items that we are seeking to support residents in our shelter and housing communities. Our current Donation Wish List can be found on our website and on our social media channels. We are always looking for fresh
that helps women stay housed. Our vision is for everyone to have a home in a community that supports them to live with dignity and hope. We have more than 150 full and part-time staff and almost 200 extraordinary volunteers. Last year, we provided over 270,000 nourishing meals across all of our programs. Cornerstone provides basic needs and a variety of services including spiritual care, mental health and harm reduction support, crisis counseling, case management, and more. Cornerstone is committed to social justice, collaboration, equity, diversity, and inclusion, respect, and organizational excellence.
foods such as meat and produce. Booking your donation drop off is now as simple as the click of a button! Please visit our website to learn more.
VOLUNTEER
As a Cornerstone volunteer, you can be a vital piece of the puzzle that helps women break the cycle of poverty and homelessness and build a new life of hope and stability. You can help out by facilitating activities, becoming a colleague with a resident, preparing or serving a meal, sorting donations, and more.
Events + fundraising
COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR
The Coldest Night of the Year charity walk takes place in Ottawa’s Westboro Village each year in February. Feel the bite of the night as a reminder of the hardships people are forced to endure when they don’t have a home or a community of support. Walk 2km or 5km and raise funds to bring your neighbours in from the cold. Save the date: February 28, 2026!
GARDEN PARTY
Our second annual Garden Party, hosted at the Official Residence of the Irish Ambassador in June 2025, was a sold-out success. Guests enjoyed a stunning fashion show, silent auction, and delicious tea sandwiches, all in support of a great caused. Together we raised over $55,000 to help support women in our community. Keep an eye out for tickets in early spring 2026.
PURPLE TIE GALA
Our seventh annual Purple Tie Gala took place at the Delta Hotel Ballroom – it was a night to remember! Guests donned their most exquisite purple attire for an evening of live entertainment, a delicious sit-down meal, live and silent auctions, and heart-felt storytelling, all for an incredible cause. The Purple Tia Gala is our most ambitious annual fundraiser, raising over $200,000 this year for mental health services in our emergency shelter and supportive residences. We hope to see you there next year. To learn more about our programs and services, support our work, or get involved, please visit our website at www.cornerstonewomen.ca.
Delphine Haslé, CFRE Executive Director and Chief Development Officer
BOARD MEMBERS
Jeff Hill Vice Chair
Anna Cellucci Treasurer
Louise Mercier Past Chair
Chris Bockstael Director
Riccardo (Rick) Campagna Director
Patrick Champagne Director
Sheila Venman Chair
Maj. Daniel Charron, (Ret’d)
Director
Scott Healey
Director
Carolyn Kropp
Director
Maj.-Gen. Charles (Duff)
Sullivan, (Ret’d)
Director
Lt.-Gen. Lloyd Campbell, (Ret’d)
Chair, Perley Health
Akos Hoffer
CEO Perley Health
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa
Perley Health is home to more than 600 seniors and veterans who live and thrive in independent living or long-term care. We are dedicated to helping them reach their full potential. Through our Centre of Excellence in FrailtyInformed Care, we invest in research that is shaping the future of long-term care — within our community and beyond. By sharing what we learn, we help seniors everywhere live their best lives. With the support of our community, we continue to improve and ensure the highest quality of care. Everything we do benefits seniors and
veterans so they can live life to the fullest. Now, we are taking a bold step forward with the Bridging Generations Campaign to create Canada’s first dementia-friendly intergenerational childcare centre integrated into a long-term care home. Seniors, veterans and children will connect daily through shared activities, stories and play. These simple yet powerful interactions bring joy, purpose and belonging for seniors, while nurturing confidence, empathy and compassion in children. We invite the business community to partner with us to bring joy, purpose and compassion to the people we serve.
How you can help
MATCHING GIFT OPPORTUNITIES
Your matching gift directly supports the care and well-being of seniors and veterans by funding vital programs, advancing research and providing medical equipment that enhances quality of life. A matching gift not only demonstrates your company’s leadership and commitment to community care, it also doubles your impact.
JOIN TEAM PERLEY HEALTH
Take part in Ottawa Race Weekend with Team Perley Health. It’s a fun, engaging opportunity for your team to raise funds in support of seniors and veterans while rallying around a cause that matters.
Your Impact
When you support Perley Health, you build a future where seniors and veterans live with dignity, purpose and connection.
• Empowering more than 600 seniors and veterans to live life to the fullest
• Inspiring creativity and joy through the Ozerdinc Grimes Therapeutic Recreation and Creative Arts Program
CORPORATE TREE DECORATING
Each holiday season, corporate teams are invited to sponsor and decorate a tree provided by Perley Health. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate the season, strengthen team spirit and show support for those who have served our country and community.
By partnering with Perley Health, you help ensure seniors and veterans live with dignity, purpose and joy — today and for years to come.
• Strengthening our vibrant independent living community for seniors
• Advancing research through our Centre of Excellence to improve the lives of those living with frailty
• Sharing knowledge and best practices so seniors and veterans everywhere can live their best lives
To discuss giving options with our team, contact us at 613-526-7173 or foundation@perleyhealth.ca
Living Life to the Fullest at Perley Health
CHEO FOUNDATION
415 Smyth Rd. Ottawa, Ont.
K1H 8M8
cheofoundation.com
Year founded: 1974
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $76,093,029
Facebook: @CHEO LinkedIn: @CHEOFoundation
Steve Read President and CEO James McKellar Board Chair
BOARD MEMBERS
Charles-Antoine Rozon Vice Chair
Jessica Sheridan Treasurer & Secretary
Ainsley Malhotra Past Chair
Alexandra Clark
Angela Singhal
Anver Malam
Daniel Thiruganaratnapathy
Julie Lupinacci
Karen Sparks
Matt Rinfret
Michael Pinto
Roxanne Bouchard
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS: 21%
CORPORATE DONATIONS: 19%
OTHER SOURCES: 60%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Eastern Ontario, Western Quebec, Northern Ontario and Nunavut
What we do
CHEO Foundation is the philanthropic arm of CHEO, CHEO Research Institute, CHEO School and Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice. For 50 years, the CHEO Foundation has been the link between these respected institutions and the generous community that financially sustains them. CHEO Foundation staff members are inspired by donors, and the community, who support pediatric healthcare, cutting-edge research and essential services to ensure children and youth can live their best lives. We are proud to put the interests of kids at the forefront of our decisions.
Over the next 10 years, CHEO will remodel, transform, and build to adapt to the growing and increasingly complex needs of children and youth. As Canada’s capital continues to change, grow, and become more diverse, kids these days also need pediatric care that can evolve to serve what they need: accessible and innovative healthcare solutions when they need them most. To do so, CHEO Foundation has launched a $220-million fundraising campaign to transform pediatric care. Join us—because kids these days could really use your help.
CHEO's Integrated Treatment Centre will be a 220,000 sq. ft. purpose-built building that will include that will provide care, programs and support for children and youth living with complex medical, developmental, behavioural and mental health needs.
How you can help
Kids these days need champions to help them live their best lives. Investing in CHEO will do more to give kids the best chance to live their best lives by:
• Improving access to acute mental health care for kids
• Enhancing care navigation, delivery and efficiency for children with complex health needs
• Supporting families, patients and staff with stress-free, safe and sustainable solutions
Volunteer
Whether you’re assisting with events, providing administrative support, participating in special programs, or creating smiles as the beloved CHEO Bear Mascot, your contribution is invaluable. Join our dedicated team and be among hundreds of volunteers who bring
• Improving access to emergency care for children
• Optimizing surgical care to deliver better outcomes for pediatric patients
• Building best-in-class diagnostic capabilities
• Advancing facility safety and management
• Addressing the critical shortage of inpatient beds for kids waiting for care
• Advancing staff development for improved pediatric care
• Improving pediatric care outcomes with a centralized research hub
comfort, joy, and support to those who need it. Your time and effort make a lasting impact and create cherished memories for young patients.
To become a volunteer please reach out to info@cheofoundation.com
You create c e
Your desire to nourish Ottawa, enriches our talent of making it a vibrant city to live for
Here’s how we put your gifts to work and the joy you make possible!
Free Admission
$50 gifts ensure accessibility to art through free admission
Professional Development
$250 gifts empower emerging artists and arts professionals, from curators to creatives, to thrive in their careers
Children’s Art Camp Exhibitions & Acquisitions
$100 gifts send kids to Art Camp, where creativity and imagination is nurtured
$500 gifts enable the development of new exhibitions and acquisitions that inspire and engage us all
Wellness Programs Arts, Culture & Entertainment
$150 gifts support wellness programs that provide a safe space for self-expression
$1000 gifts contribute to the OAG’s impact and work to revitalize downtown through visual arts
OTTAWA ART GALLERY
50 Mackenzie King Bridge Ottawa, Ont. K1N 0C5
https://oaggao.ca/ info@oaggao.ca
Year founded: 1988
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $3,397,367
Facebook: /ottawaartgallery
Instagram: /ottawaartgallery/
Twitter: /OttawaArtG
LinkedIN: /ottawa-art-gallery/?viewAsMember=true
YouTube: /UC9-smUCSJkjfDcral3_cRuA
Alexandra Badzak Director & Chief Executive Officer
BOARD MEMBERS
Mike Manson Vice-Chair
Annabelle Cloutier Secretary
Caroline Dupéré-Tremblay Treasurer
Directors:
Barry Fong
Gabriel Poliquin
Althia Raj
Deborah Duffy
Alik Angaladian
Mark Schaan Chair, OAG Board of Directors
What we do
The Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) shares the story of Ottawa’s evolution through art while offering a vision for the city’s future. The gallery presents and collects work from the region, ensuring that local artists are recognized in Ottawa, across Canada and internationally.
OAG also offers subsidized workshops and community programs across the National Capital Region. Programs are designed to engage diverse communities, including seniors, youth, 2SLGBTQQIA+ participants, and adults with lived experience of mental illness.
How you can help
BILL STAUBI ACQUISITION FUND
The Ottawa Art Gallery is proud to honour the remarkable philanthropic and cultural contributions of Bill Staubi. By donating to the Bill Staubi Acquisition Fund, you are championing the purchase of artwork by emerging artists—with a preference for artists from the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.
WELLNESS INITIATIVES
The OAG is seeking community partnerships for wellness programs that encourages mental health and social inclusion through art-making workshops.
Our goal is to foster a healthier and more engaged population in Ottawa by promoting cultural vibrancy and social cohesion.
These initiatives will work in collaboration with community leaders to link local artists and artistic communities, across varying disciplines, to create art that will increase public awareness and understanding of research and patient care, incorporate artistic beauty and expression into the hospital experience, and develop Art as Therapy programming.
GEOGRAPHIC
Michel Liboiron
Swathi Kappagantula
Don Kwan
Andy Akangah
Susan Smith
Katie Lafferty
Melanie Yugo
Kelly Wilhelm
Megan Cornell
Events + Fundraising
GIVING TUESDAY
December 2nd, 2025
This Giving Tuesday, we are striving to raise $20,000 to spark community programming, fuel curatorial research, inspire exhibitions, and care for collections. These are our community commitments, and we’re thrilled to unite your gifts with what matters most to you. Together let’s make the OAG a home for the arts.
Participants take part in a
GIVE TO GET ART AUCTION
May 21st, 2026
The Give to Get Art Auction is our annual fundraiser that brings together a vibrant community of art lovers, collectors, and creatives for the art event of the year! By purchasing a ticket or bidding on an artwork, you are championing the incredible talent of the National Capital Region and fueling the OAG’s public exhibitions, permanent collection, and dynamic array of community programs.
OAG ARTIST INVESTITURE
November 26th, 2025
Each year, the OAG Board of Directors honours the lasting legacies of five influential artists from the National Capital Region through the Artist Investiture. This annual initiative celebrates their extraordinary artistic accomplishments, their significant influence in the art world, and their instrumental impact in shaping the foundations of the Ottawa Art Gallery.
The Ottawa Art Gallery in downtown Ottawa. PHOTO: AMITY BRADBURY
The Bill Staubi Acquisition Fund supports the purchase of works by emerging artists, with a focus on artists from the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. PHOTO: LINDSAY RALPH
Guests attend the Give to Get Art Auction, the gallery’s annual fundraiser in support of exhibitions, acquisitions and community programs. PHOTO: MELODY HABBOUCHE
wellness workshop at the Ottawa Art Gallery. PHOTO: LINDSAY RALPH
Delivering Supportive Cancer Care Together
The programs here have been so helpful for me, any my entire family has benefited. I hope that everyone affected by cancer will be able to experience these programs. It is a much-needed light to those going through cancer.“
THE OTTAWA CANCER FOUNDATION
1500 Alta Vista Dr.
Ottawa, Ont. K1G 3Y9
support@ottawacancer.ca
ottawacancer.ca
613-247-3527
Year founded: 1995
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $4,524,722
Facebook: ottawacancer
LinkedIn: ottawacancer
Instagram: ottawacancer
Deborah Lehmann President & CEO
Tina Nagratha Chair
BOARD MEMBERS
Ian Sherman Vice-Chair
Lauren Peirce Vice-Chair
Mita Meyers Interim Treasurer
Suzanne Pellerin Director
Joanne Kudakiewicz Director
Anthonette Jacob Director
Greg Walker Director Richar Raigoza Director
Kelly Moore Director
Michael Dunleavy Director
Paul Gardner Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES INDIVIDUAL
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
What We Do
As Ottawa’s only Community Cancer Hub, we are delivering Supportive Cancer Care through dynamic collaborations with over 70 diverse
How We Can Help
WE’RE HERE FOR YOU
The cancer journey can be a lonely and confusing experience. The Ottawa Cancer Foundation is here to help change that. Together with our partners, we offer free supportive cancer programs for anyone impacted by cancer in our region.
COMMUNITY CANCER HUB
A ONE-STOP ENTRYWAY TO SUPPORT
Our Community Cancer Hub offers a variety of free programs and services to enhance the wellbeing of you and your loved ones.
- Mental Health Programs
- Nutrition Programs
- Exercise + Movement
- Courses + Workshops
- Symptom Management
- Social Support
CANCER SYSTEM NAVIGATION
NAVIGATING COMPLEXITY
Our flagship Cancer System Navigation program bridges the gap between medical care and community-based non-medical care for individuals impacted by cancer, their families and caregivers. Cancer System Navigators provide free personalized guidance and resources, whether you are newly diagnosed, in treatment, or beyond. Our navigators can help connect you to services for practical support, mental health, peer support, informational resources and workshops, and other supportive cancer care programs.
DONATE
When you support The Ottawa Cancer Foundation, you ensure that individuals who are impacted by cancer in the greater Ottawa area have equitable access to supportive cancer care to reduce the physical, emotional, and financial
community partners. Together, we create and deliver impactful, no-cost programs and front-line services both at the Hub at 1500 Alta Vista (Maplesoft-Jones Centre) and within the community.
burden of cancer and increase the desired outcomes of improved quality of life for those in our community affected by this disease.
GIVE MONTHLY
Want to increase your impact? Consider giving monthly and spread out a gift in smaller amounts. It makes giving affordable, convenient, and predictable. For example, an annual gift of $1,000 is approximately $83 a month or $20 a week.
HONOUR A LOVED ONE
A gift given in memory is a personal way to honour and celebrate a loved one while giving back to a cause that you both cared deeply about.
LEAVE A LEGACY
Leaving a gift in your will lets you make a true gift of a lifetime – one that you might not be able to make while you’re alive. With the promise of future funding to support community cancer care, you help shape a community where those affected by cancer receive the support they need.
For more information about how you can support those affected by cancer in our community, please contact: Allen LeBlanc
CREATE A CORPORATE FUNDRAISER OR CONSIDER WORKPLACE GIVING
Is there cancer in your work family? If your company has an event like a golf tournament or BBQ, proceeds can help your coworkers and their families.
There are many ways to support individuals facing cancer. Giving back can be easy. To begin a conversation, please contact: Tricia Ross Director, Special Events and Community Engagement tross@ottawacancer.ca 613-247-3527 ext. 260
Ottawa
SHEPHERDS OF GOOD HOPE FOUNDATION
233 Murray St.
Ottawa, Ont. K1N 5M9
sghottawa.com
donate@sghottawa.com 613-789-8210
Year founded: 1983
X: sghottawa
Facebook: sghottawa
Instagram: sghottawa
David Gourlay CEO Kaveh Rikhtegar Chair
BOARD MEMBERS
SHEPHERDS OF GOOD HOPE FOUNDATION
Kaveh Rikhtegar
Chair
Carrol Pitters
David Rattray
Irfan Ahmed
John Peters
Lyndra – GriffithHarnden
Mark Roundell
Michael Williams
Stèphanie Montreuil
Wendy Hope
SHEPHERDS OF GOOD HOPE
Dave
What we do
Shepherds of Good Hope is one of the largest not-for-profit organizations dedicated to meeting the needs of those experiencing homelessness and precariously-housed people of all genders in the city of Ottawa. Our vision is to provide homes for all, community for all, hope for all. We foster hope and reduce harm in Ottawa by providing around-the-clock specialized services, programs, and partnerships. Many of the people who access Shepherds of Good Hope’s programs and services face challenges with mental health, substance use disorder, and trauma.
Shepherds of Good Hope operates seven supportive housing residences in six locations across our city. Our continuum of care also
How you can help
GIVE
By supporting Shepherds of Good Hope, you are transforming the lives of people of all genders who are experiencing homelessness, many of whom live with mental health challenges, substance use disorder, and trauma. Your investment in our community will help people experiencing homelessness and people who are at risk of homelessness by directly supporting much-needed programs and services that make a difference every day.
Programs like our internationally-renowned Managed Alcohol Program and Supervised Consumption and Treatment Service save lives in our community by reversing overdoses and helping people with substance use disorders find hope again. Our Transitional Emergency Shelter Program serves individuals who need specialized health care in a non-judgemental and caring environment. This reduces hospital emergency room wait times, frees up first responder personnel’s time, and provides more
includes a community soup kitchen and drop-in program, health and wellness services, police and paramedic diversion programming, and an emergency shelter. We are proud to share that we officially house more people in permanent supportive housing than we shelter each night! This is a first in Shepherds of Good Hope’s history. Shepherds of Good Hope Foundation is dedicated to ethical fundraising and sustainable fiscal management. We support the work of Shepherds of Good Hope through donor-centred fundraising, ethical storytelling, and help to ensure sustainable financial management of the organization. The Foundation is responsible for all of Shepherds’ fundraising activities, including individual giving, events, grants, and community partnerships.
tailored care for the individual. By supporting Shepherds of Good Hope, you are helping to make chronic homelessness a thing of the past as we build permanent supportive housing and move people out of shelters and into homes of their own. Without your support, none of these innovative programs would be possible. Please donate today!
VOLUNTEER
Every day, Shepherds of Good Hope volunteers make positive contributions across our city, showing people experiencing homelessness and vulnerably-housed adults in our community that people care. Find the right spot for you. We offer volunteering opportunities across our city at supportive housing residences in Kanata, Carlington, Lowertown, and Rideau-Rockcliffe. We also offer volunteer opportunities in our community soup kitchen on Murray Street. You can explore our year-round and seasonal volunteering by going to our website to apply and learn more.
Mitchell Lafrance
Robin Sellar
John Peters
Events + fundraising
There are many ways to support Shepherds of Good Hope throughout the year via our community events!
Every spring, Ottawa community leaders gather for Shepherds of Good Hope's highly anticipated, signature event, Taste for Hope. Bringing together Ottawa’s top chefs, guests are treated to exquisite dishes that delighted tastebuds through this fun culinary experience. The food is paired with local offerings of craft beer, wine, and cocktails. The evening is topped off with a lively auction, including the opportunity to “fund-a-need.” The event is
Shepherds’ largest fundraiser of the year, with all money raised going directly to support lifechanging programs right here in our community. Stay tuned for 2026 Taste for Hope details – and find out what else we have going on by visiting www.sghottawa.com/events.
Want to host your own event and support those currently experiencing homelessness? Our team is here to help make it easy. Whether at home or in the office, we have the materials and tools you need to make a significant and positive impact on the lives of individuals today! Contact us at donate@sghottawa.ca to learn more.
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa
IMMIGRANTS INTEGRATION SUPPORT SERVICES (STEPSTONE HOUSE)
Immigrants Integration Support Services, operating as Stepstone House, is a registered charity supporting refugees and newcomers in Ottawa. Since 2019, Stepstone House has provided transitional housing and essential services to facilitate the settlement of refugees and newcomers in our communities.
The goal is to provide dignity, stability and independence for refugees and newcomers to integrate quickly and become a positive addition to our local community and economy.
Through partnerships, donations and government grants, Stepstone House empowers refugees and newcomers to overcome barriers and pursue long-term stability and sustainability.
Stepstone House is committed to building inclusive communities where newcomers can thrive. Your donations and support sustain this mission, with every contribution directly impacting residents’ lives.
How you can help
GIVE
Stepstone House provides transitional housing and holistic support to refugee claimants in Ottawa. Donations cover essential needs such as food, clothing, transportation and health supports, while sustaining mentorship, language and employment programs. Contributions help residents move from crisis to stability, reducing homelessness, fostering independence and enabling community belonging.
VOLUNTEER
BOARD MEMBERS
Sheik Fareed
Andrew Kigozi
Fred Mubiru Faruku Kibaba Joy Bagyenda Kaylee Jobin GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
FUNDING SOURCES
Volunteers support residents through mentorship, tutoring, cultural assimilation, recreational activities and community events. Opportunities range from one-time event support to ongoing commitments in skills training, language practice and wellness programs. Interested individuals can register through the website or by email, attend an orientation session and be matched with roles that fit their skills and availability.
Events + fundraising
GIVE HOPE SPRING CAMPAIGN
— April, Ottawa
Raises funds to maintain and furnish safe housing spaces for newcomers.
CANADA DAY SUMMER BBQ
— July, Ottawa
A summer gathering for residents to celebrate their 1st Canada Day, celebrate diversity, build community and promote cultural exchange.
THANKSGIVING FALL APPEAL
— October, Ottawa
Collects donations to support operations and strengthen our capacity to serve refugees.
Funding priorities
• Reducing homelessness by expanding affordable transitional housing for refugees
• Knowledge acquisition for refugees and newcomers through workshops and seminars
• Addressing mental health and other barriers to effective community integration
• Developing partnerships to strengthen employment readiness and skills training.
• Increasing fundraising capacity to reduce reliance on government grants.
HOLIDAY GIVING WINTER DRIVE
— December, Ottawa
A seasonal initiative to raise funds to support residents with essentials through their first winter.
Joseph Kiirya Executive Director
Idel Delfino Board Chair
City councilor Sean Devine with residents
Residents in the house
Refugees welcome to Ottawa.
35 Waller St. Ottawa, Ont. K1N 7G4
ottawamission.com
donations@ottawamission.com
613-234-1144
Year founded: 1906
Total operational budget for last fiscal year: $25,043,009
Facebook: OttawaMission
Instagram: @ottawamission
LinkedIn: The Ottawa Mission
YouTube: @theottawamission1906
Peter
BOARD MEMBERS
What we do
The Ottawa Mission is our city’s oldest and largest emergency shelter. Since 1906, we have been at the forefront of caring for people who are experiencing hopelessness and in need. We do this by providing the basic necessities of life, including nutritious food, safe shelter, and warm clothing. Last year, we served over one million meals, including 11,500 meals weekly from our food trucks to 41 neighborhoods across the city. We are also so much more than just a shelter – we help people regain their dignity, hope and purpose in life. We provide people with addiction and trauma support including a five-month residential treatment program, housing support, job training, mental health services, care at our DYMON Health Clinic and dental clinic, and end of life care
How you can help
Inspire your team and your company's presence in our community through meaningful corporate engagement with The Ottawa Mission. We offer and can develop opportunities which align with your organization's values and make a real difference for those experiencing hardship.
• Partnerships with one of our many emergency and wraparound services
• Event sponsorship of The Blue Door Gala or Coldest Night of the Year
• Group volunteer opportunities at The Mission or your location
Food insecurity is a major problem in Ottawa. The Mission is a driving force to reach those facing hunger. Each week, our 2 food trucks travel to 41 neighborhoods providing 11,500 fully prepared, nutritious meals. This initiative is 100% made by possible by our donors. Join our mission with The 100 Meals A Month Club partnership program
• cover the costs of 100 meals per month with an automatic monthly donation or a one time annual support
Last fiscal year, we provided over 1.2 million meals to the vulnerable members of our community.
at our Diane Morrison Hospice. More than a shelter, The Ottawa Mission provides an array of services to the city’s most vulnerable citizens.
Graham Richardson
Cara Vaccarino
Jack Murta
Paul Burnett
Deputy Chief
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
• receive partnership logo recognition on our website along with a social media thank you • a 100 Meals a Month Club Partner logo available for your use
Partner with The Ottawa Mission to build a lasting impact for those experiencing hardship. There are many meaningful ways to align with our many emergency and wraparound services designed to help one reach a path to stability. Often, all it takes is one visit to understand the profound difference your partnership can make.
We'd love to learn more about your philanthropic goals and explore meaningful ways to work together. Please contact: Sherry Stafford, Philanthropy and Corporate Partnerships. sstafford@ottawamission.com or 613-915-7829
joins our 100 Meals a Month initiative as they celebrate a century of service to Ottawa families.
Our impact made possible through the support of our donor community:
• Provided emergency shelter for 1,248 different people
• Served over 1,208,000 meals to hungry shelter clients and food insecure communities
• Placed 270 people into housing
• Completed over 3,400 direct patient consults and over 9,000 client interactions, including prescriptions, medical record checks, and lab results at our DYMON Health Clinic, where we
provide primary care, eye, dental, family medicine, and mental health clinics, and more
• 107 people graduated from our addiction treatment programs into healthier lives
• Delivered additional employment, educational, and mental health supports to 397 different people
• 84 students graduated from our Food Services Training Program (FSTP) and 90% were employed at graduation.
LinkedIn: The University of Ottawa Heart Institute Foundation
Lianne Laing
V.P., Philanthropy, UOHI President, Foundation
BOARD MEMBERS
James Annis
Foundation Board
Chair
Grant Jameson
Vice Chair
Ian Sterling
Treasurer
Ken Jennings
Secretary
Dalton McGuinty Chair, UOHI
Dr. Rob Beanlands
UOHI President & CEO
Keira Torkko Chair, OHIRC Board of Directors
Paul Bodnoff
Alumni Board Chair
James Annis Chair Board of Directors
Jordan Bianconi
Marc-Andre Groulx
Gail Kaneb
Jake Levinson
Lucas Matheson
Leslie Mise
Jonathan Murray Muneeba Omar
Nick Pantieras
Deneen Perrin
Jean Spicer
Erin Zipes
Colin Zappia
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
DONATIONS: 72%
BEQUESTS: 20%
SPECIAL EVENTS: 8%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute is the primary cardiac referral centre for Eastern Ontario and several other areas across Canada, including Nunavut, Newfoundland & Labrador. It also offers satellite clinics and outreach programs throughout the Ottawa Valley. The Canadian Women's Heart Health Centre, located in Ottawa, is the first of its kind in Canada, dedicated to researching women's cardiovascular health. Likewise, at the Institute, resides a world-class research facility, the Centre for Valvular Heart Disease, the Canadian Centre for Rare Cardiac Conditions, and the trail-blazing UOHI Data Science Centre. The Institute continues to harness the latest advancements in machine learning and technology while finding tomorrow's treatments.
What we do
As much as we change, we also remain the same. A fundamental principle of the Heart Institute from its inception in 1976 to the present day has always been to put patients first.
Your Heart Institute is among the top cardiac centres nationwide, ranked number one in research among Ottawa Hospitals and fourth in
How you can help
By investing in the University of Ottawa Heart Institute through the Foundation, you will help us to grow in so many ways - fueling new discoveries, innovating patient care, ground-breaking research, state-of-the-art equipment, cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation patient programs,
Events
+ fundraising
the province. Worldwide, we are in the top 3% for cardiac research.
Research is integrated into every part of our work and each day we uncover new insights into future treatments.
The philanthropic support of our community builds this beacon of cardiac care, which now treats hundreds of thousands of heart patients across the region, country and beyond.
and the education of tomorrow’s healthcare professionals. A gift today by way of securities or including the Heart Institute in your Will, is a powerful statement and fuels the science that will eventually eradicate cardiovascular disease. You can also fundraise with heart, partner with the Foundation for a signature initiative, or join a community event. Thank you for supporting the Institute’s work through life-saving philanthropy.
FEBRUARY IS HEART MONTH
In February 2025, our generous community raised an incredible 1.4 million dollars for cardiac care. Embracing this annual signature campaign, businesses and individuals came together to celebrate heart health for all by displaying red paper hearts, sharing their stories, and hosting numerous events in the Nation’s Capital, the Ottawa Valley, and far beyond. februaryisheartmonth.ca
LIGHT THE CAPITAL RED
Light the Capital Red is back! Thank you to the hundreds of businesses, landmarks and homes that will be casting a rosy glow this February to celebrate the Institute’s compassionate and worldrenowned doctors, surgeons, nurses, researchers, and medical professionals. Join us as we #LightTheCapitalRed in 2026!
JOIN US IN 2026:
Would you like to learn more or participate in February is Heart Month 2026? Please reach out to specialevents@ottawa.ca.
THE OTTAWA PICKLEBALL CLASSIC
The Ottawa Pickleball Classic returned for its third year, on May 4th, 2025. Defying all expectations, by doubling the number of teams year after year, the event raised over $100,000 to support cardiac care in the community. We were also proud to offer mobile heart screening and health checks on-site to our players and spectators. Learn more and save the date for spring 2026: ottawapickleballclassic.ca
THE ANNUAL WILBERT KEON MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
June’s fourth annual Wilbert Keon Memorial Golf Tournament raised over $305,500 to support groundbreaking research, world-class care, and the education of future healthcare professionals. Inspired by the memory of the much-loved Institute co-founder, Dr. Wilbert Keon, we are grateful to everyone who has supported us through donations, partnerships, and by golfing in this sold-out event. Learn more, sponsor, and register: wilbertkeonmemorialgolftournament.
ca
JUMP IN™ FOR WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH
In September of 2025, the Foundation will celebrate the sixth birthday of Jump In™! Supporting women’s heart health from coast to coast, this 30-day challenge has welcomed nearly 7,000 participants nationwide, generated 8 million minutes of movement, and raised funds of over $1.2 million dollars. jumpinnow.ca
Imagine the feeling of walking into your home — the relief, comfort and sense of belonging. That’s what Matthew House Ottawa provides every day. For the past 15 years, we’ve opened two doors:
• One for refugee claimants arriving in Canada with nothing, seeking safety and a new beginning.
• One for local families in transition — newcomers, individuals leaving homelessness and survivors of domestic violence — who need furniture to turn empty apartments into real homes.
Funding priorities
At Matthew House Ottawa, we respond to growing needs with dignity and action.
Today, that means expanding our impact in two critical ways:
Our residential homes offer a safe, family-style environment where refugee claimants can live, eat, receive support and begin their journey toward independence.
Our Furniture Bank serves thousands of people each year who are starting over and need basic furnishings to build a stable life.
Together, these programs provide dignity, comfort and a path forward for some of Ottawa’s most vulnerable neighbours. Learn more:
• Opening more homes for homeless refugee claimants
• Doubling the capacity of our Furniture Bank to serve families in transition
Each new house and every additional square foot of warehouse space represents more than infrastructure — it represents stability, dignity and a chance to rebuild. Your support helps us meet urgent needs and create lasting change for newcomers, refugees and families across Ottawa.
How you can help
GIVE
Ian McLaren Chair
Steve Kuhn Treasurer
Aaron Webber Secretary
Carolyn Elliott-Magwood Director
MEMBERS GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Angela Success Director
Deirdre Freiheit Director
Kaite Burkholder Harris Director
Your donation goes directly toward furnishing homes, feeding and sheltering refugee claimants, and supporting newcomers as they rebuild their lives in Ottawa. Thanks to low operating costs and strong partnerships, every dollar makes a tangible difference — from groceries and housing to furniture deliveries that turn empty spaces into safe, welcoming homes. Make a gift today: matthewhouseottawa.org/give
Events + fundraising
15 FOR 15 GIVING CIRCLE
Join our 15 for 15 Giving Circle and help us celebrate 15 years of delivering dignity in Ottawa. By becoming a monthly donor, you provide dependable, lasting support to refugees and families in transition — and help us furnish more homes than ever.
• $15/month delivers furniture to 10 homes each year
• $30/month provides 60 hot meals for refugee claimants
• $50/month fully furnishes a home every year
• $85/month covers a month of food, a bed and support for one person
VOLUNTEER
Matthew House Ottawa thrives because of its volunteers — from those helping refugee claimants settle in to those loading trucks at the Furniture Bank.
“Giving new Canadians a restart on their whole lives is a unique opportunity. It sends a message about our values and belief that everyone matters.”
Find out how you can get involved: matthewhouseottawa.org/volunteer
Our leadership team, excited to see our NEW Furniture Bank warehouse!
FURNITURE BANK EXPANSION CAMPAIGN
Prefer a one-time gift? Support our $500,000 Furniture Bank Expansion Campaign and help us serve 600 more families each year.
Give today: matthewhouseottawa.org/give
Kailee Brennan Executive Director Ian McLaren Chair
Our board member, Angela with our Director of Programs, David and a former resident in our newest Refugee Reception Home.
What we do
Do you believe that there is no limit to anyone’s potential?
CAUSEWAY WORK CENTRE
22 O'Meara Street
Ottawa, Ont. K1Y 4N6
www.causewayworkcentre.org
613-725-3494
Year founded: 1977
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $3,241,710
Twitter: CausewayWork
Facebook: CausewayWork
Instagram: causewayworkcentre
LinkedIn: company/causeway-work-centre
Sandro Ricci President Owen Freiheit Interim Executive Director
BOARD MEMBERS
Sandro Ricci Chair
Mike Deslauriers Vice-Chair
Judy Cameron Treasurer
Kate Faughnan Past Chair
Fairouz Wahab Director
Mukta Dharmamer Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
GRANTS: 65% EARNED REVENUE: 23%
DONATIONS: 1%
OTHER: 11%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa
At Causeway, we find people meaningful work. Regardless. Causeway is a not-for-profit agency that empowers all people by helping those with mental health related barriers and other challenges find meaningful work. At Causeway, we call our employment programs, social enterprises and support services “Avenues” because of the journey we go on together with our participants. Each person can take multiple avenues while on their journey, but they all lead to the same place - meaningful employment.
Causeway is a space where people who have
How you can help
GIVE & PARTNER
You can make a difference for someone experiencing barriers to employment. It is about more than just having a job. It is about being able to enrich your community and finding meaning in your life. It's about finding hope.
Your support is needed now to help people with mental health challenges and disabilities reach their employment goals by supporting our employment programs, social businesses, and wrap-around services including our Employment Resource Centre and Wellness Centre.
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
Causeway Commercial Services, Good Nature Groundskeeping and Needle Hunters are all available through Causeway's social enterprises, which train and employ people experiencing employment barriers. Discover how your business can be supported by social enterprise here: https:// www.causewayworkcentre.org/social-enterprise/
HIRE FROM CAUSEWAY
Employers help us build stronger communities by employing the people we serve. Everyone has abilities and skills regardless of the challenges they may face. With the recent shifts in labour markets, employers have been struggling with staffing and maintaining their employees. People with barriers to employment, however, still experience difficulties entering the labour market and represent a significant portion of unemployed or underemployed individuals. By working with Causeway, employers can tap into a pool of skilled and motivated people who are ready to work. Find your next employee of the month at Causeway!
Events + fundraising
WORK REGARDLESS WEEK
December 2-6, 2024. Celebrated annually, this week serves to engage individuals and businesses around the message that everyone has something valuable to contribute to our community and can work, regardless of the barriers they face.
We invite individuals and businesses to show support of #WorkRegardlessWeek on social media by sharing what "Work. Regardless." means to
been underestimated can have access to support, encouragement, skills-building, and personal exploration in order to find and maintain work that utilizes their unique strengths and abilities. An important pillar of our strategic plan is forming partnerships with businesses and community members, in order to broaden support for individuals and amplify our impact.
We invite you to join the Causeway community in partnership, and be part of transforming lives with purpose and belonging.
“Through the darkest part of my life, when I had no career prospects, there were people who encouraged me by recognizing my strengths. My experience with Causeway has changed the way I think about my future.” – Causeway participant
them, and by making a donation to support vital community employment services. Together, we can build working communities that employ each person's abilities.
Causeway participant Marc's mission is to clean up and give back.
OTTAWA NETWORK FOR EDUCATION
205-900 Morrison Dr. Ottawa, Ont. K2H 8K7
www.onfe-rope.ca
info@onfe-rope.ca
613-366-3085
Year founded: 1985
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $5,502,729
Facebook: onfe.rope
LinkedIn: ottawa-network-for-education
Instagram: onfe_rope
YouTube: @ONFEROPETV
Heather Norris President and CEO
BOARD MEMBERS
Marc Bertrand CECCE
Christian-Charle Bouchard CEPEO
Pino Buffone OCDSB
Mary Donaghy OCSB
Margo Crawford Business Sherpa Group
Kathleen Devenny Consultant
Marie Eveline Community Member
Julie Beauchamp Chair, Senior Vice President Academic Algonquin College
Amanda Goth Carleton University
Greg Matthews Community Member
Drew McMillan Ages Group of Companies
Linda Newman Community Member
Sarwar Qureshi Paterson & Company
Gregory Richards Telfer School of Management
Neil Schwartz Mann Lawyers
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
GOVERNMENT FUNDING: 49%
AND OTHER CHARITIES: 11% INDIVIDUAL: 6% CORPORATE: 3%
OTHER (Educational institution, Investment Income and Third-party Events): 31%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
What we do
The Ottawa Network for Education (ONFE) is a trusted connector and catalyst for student success. In partnership with all publicly funded school boards in Ottawa, we deliver equitable, innovative programs that meet students where they are—from a healthy start to the day, to academic support, to confidence-building with hands-on learning. By uniting partners across sectors, ONFE breaks down barriers and builds brighter futures. Our focus on sustainability, future readiness, and social responsibility drives our vision: an Ottawa where all students thrive.
SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM
The School Breakfast Program helps students start every school day nourished and ready to learn by providing thousands of nutritious meals and snacks in schools across Ottawa.
CLASSROOM GARDENS
Classroom Gardens brings hands-on learning to schools by engaging students in growing their own vegetables and exploring healthy eating from seed to plate.
VOLUNTEERS IN EDUCATION
The Volunteers in Education program addresses the need for individualized student support by connecting dedicated volunteers with classrooms to help students build skills and confidence.
How you can help
DONATE & PARTNER
Donating, leaving a gift in your will, or partnering with ONFE is an investment in the success and well-being of Ottawa’s students. Your support helps deliver programs that remove barriers to learning—from healthy school breakfasts to education support, and hands-on learning opportunities. Together, we can create an Ottawa where every student has the nourishment, skills, and confidence they need to thrive.
VOLUNTEER
ONFE volunteers are the heart of our programs, bringing their time, skills, and compassion to support students across Ottawa. Whether helping with literacy, math, virtual tutoring, English as
Events + fundraising
BREAKFAST MATTERS
The Ottawa Network for Education’s (ONFE) Breakfast Matters campaign launches each August alongside the start of the school year, rallying the community to ensure every Ottawa student begins their day with a nutritious meal or snack. This kickoff sets the tone for ongoing fundraising efforts that continue year-round, helping ONFE’s School Breakfast Program meet growing demand and reach every student in need. Through generous donations and
STEP COALITION
ONFE coordinates the STEP for Youth in Schools and Community Coalition, uniting community partners to provide Support, Treatment, Education, and Prevention for youth facing substance and technology use challenges.
a second language, helping to prepare meals or snacks, or assisting teachers in the classroom, they create welcoming, encouraging spaces where every student can thrive.
community partnerships, the campaign fuels both immediate support and sustained impact for local students.
SPARK SOIRÉE
The Spark Soirée is ONFE’s signature annual gala, bringing together community leaders, business partners, and supporters every spring to celebrate and raise funds for programs that help Ottawa students thrive. This elegant evening features dinner, entertainment, and opportunities to connect. Sponsorships and tables are available for those who want to be part of this unforgettable night.
What we do
The Children’s Aid Foundation of Ottawa (CAFO) supports children, youth and families connected to the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa (CASO) by funding programs that fill gaps in the child welfare system.
While CAFO collaborates with CASO, it operates independently and does not fund or duplicate government-mandated services. Instead, the foundation directs resources to unmet needs, providing enhanced support outside
Last year 61 youth received a Dare to Dream Bursary to pursue post-secondary education. “I was in foster care off and on for 15 years, and life was not easy growing up. Kids like me that often end up as a statistic rely on your generous contributions to better our lives and futures,” bursary recipient
3%
3%
Another 175 youth were supported last year in their transition out of care into
“She said she feels like she really has a “home” to
How you can help
TOP FUNDRAISING PRIORITIES
Youth transition programs: Youth aging out of care are among the most vulnerable in our community. CAFO equips them with the skills, networks, and resources to build independence
Support for children in care: Children in foster or residential care often lack the stability their peers enjoy. CAFO ensures they are supported, connected, and able to succeed.
Events + fundraising
Each May, more than 150 community leaders gather for a sommelier-guided evening of curated wines and gourmet dining, raising funds for the Dare to Dream bursary to help youth in care pursue their post-secondary dreams.
BDC | CAFO ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
This popular annual golf tournament is held each September in partnership with BDC. Over 100 business leaders and community champions join forces to raise funds to help children and youth supported by CASO.
return to… She said it’s so peaceful now. She has all of her belongings out of storage for the first time in five years,” — CASO social worker
In addition, 235 children and youth created lifelong memories at March Break and summer camps.
"This experience was amazing. The boys came back from camp closer than ever and the older boy was able to return home as a result of his new relationship with his brother,"
— CASO social worker
Prevention-based programs for families: Although 91 per cent of child welfare services in Ottawa support children at home, most public funding is directed to children already in care, leaving a critical gap for struggling families. CAFO fills this gap by providing preventionbased supports that strengthen families and help children thrive in safe, nurturing homes.
When you join the Dream Launcher donor community, you help change the lives of over 2,500 children, youth, and families every year.
WORLD TRIVIA NIGHT
Come out and play! Billed as Canada's largest live trivia contest, join 1,000+ trivia enthusiasts, corporate teams, and friends on November 28th for a fun-filled night of competition, prizes, and bragging rights.
Full details at WorldTriviaNight.com.
HOLIDAY GIFT PROGRAM
Join hundreds of local organizations and community members in helping children, youth, and families of all faiths celebrate year-round.
More information at cafott.ca/events-holiday-giftprogram/.
Ottawa Community Housing Foundation
Ottawa Community Housing Foundation
LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
33,000 TENANTS
33,000 TENANTS
15,000 HOMES
15,000 HOMES
155 COMMUNITIES ACROSS OTTAWA
155 COMMUNITIES ACROSS OTTAWA
OTTAWA COMMUNITY HOUSING FOUNDATION
39 Auriga Dr. Ottawa, Ont. K2E 7Y8
ochfoundation.ca
info@ochfoundation.ca
Year founded: 2012
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $1,057,317
Bluesky: ochfoundation.bsky.social
LinkedIn: OCH Foundation
Facebook: OCH Foundation
Instagram: ochfoundation
Traci Spour-Lafrance Executive Director
BOARD MEMBERS
Melissa Reeves Chair
Nick Ethier Vice Chair
Wayne French Past Chair
Emily Moyo Treasurer
Heather Dawson Director
Melissa Reeves Chair
What
we do
The OCH Foundation is a registered charity that transforms lives by improving wellbeing for tenants living in Ottawa Community Housing (OCH) communities. By fostering community engagement, supporting education, employment and promoting well-being, the OCH Foundation provides resources and opportunities that empower residents. Through various programs and partnerships, OCH Foundation works to create an inclusive environment where individuals and families can thrive and achieve their full potential. The OCH Foundation is committed to building strong, supportive communities across Ottawa.
OUR PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES
recLINK: Connects youth aged 4-18 in OCH neighbourhoods with free arts, sports, and camp programs.
Inspired by Learning Bursary: Awards $1,000 to students pursuing post-secondary education.
Hop on Bikes: Provides refurbished bicycles, helmets, and locks to OCH residents.
Pack-a-Sack: Delivers school supplies and backpacks to children and youth in OCH communities, helping them return to school ready to learn.
Stéphane Giguère Director - Ex Officio
Tara Lapointe Director
Sam Bhalesar Director of Fund Development
Barbara Spanton Director
Jim Watson Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
GRANTS & FOUNDATIONS: 41%
FUNDRAISING & EVENTS: 42%
GOVERNMENT: 10%
OTHER SOURCES: 7%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
Youth Futures: A six-month bilingual mentorship program for youth aged 16-21 to develop skills for post-secondary education and employment. Offered in partnership with the City of Ottawa and BGC Ottawa.
Tomorrow Ready: Provides essential perishable and nonperishable food items, as well as hygiene products, through a partnership with Khalsa Aid Ottawa.
How you can help
GIVE
Support the Ottawa Community Housing Foundation by donating today. Your gift empowers residents, creates opportunities, and builds stronger communities. Every contribution makes a meaningful impact on the lives of OCH residents.
HOST A FUNDRAISER
Host a fundraiser to support the OCH Foundation! Whether it’s an event, birthday, community gathering, or personal challenge, your fundraiser helps raise vital funds to empower OCH residents. Get creative and make a meaningful impact.
SPREAD THE WORD!
Share our mission with friends, family, and your social networks to raise awareness and support for the OCH Foundation’s programs. Your voice can help build stronger, more inclusive communities across Ottawa.
GIVE MONTHLY
Join us as a monthly donor and provide ongoing support to OCH residents. Your regular contributions ensure that essential programs and services continue, creating lasting change for those who need it most.
As we look ahead, your support will help us grow our programs and expand our impact in the Ottawa community.
An OCH Foundation staff member shares fresh food with a tenant through the Tomorrow Ready program.
A tenant smiles with her new bike gear at a Hop on Bikes distribution event.
A young tenant poses shyly with his brand-new backpack from the Pack-a-Sack program.
Ala’a Shadid Executive Director Ishbel Solvason President, Board of Directors
BOARD MEMBERS
Ishbel Solvason President
Kami Ramcharan Treasurer
Mary Donaghy Secretary
Sue Smarkala Past President
André Asselin Director
Bernie Burns Director
Denys Chamberland Director
Fred Gloade Director
Arthur Loeb Director
Hugh O’Donnell Director
Bijan Safi Director
Saide Sayah Director
Gary Stein Director
Arlene Wortsman Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
DONATIONS AND FUNDRAISING: 14%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa
What we do Funding priority
Multifaith Housing Initiative (MHI) is a nonprofit charitable organization that provides safe, inclusive, affordable and permanent housing in Ottawa. Working with more than 80 faith groups, local businesses, civil society partners and all levels of government, MHI builds communities where tenants can thrive.
MHI’s community development team works with tenants to deliver free programs that promote well-being, strengthen connections and support long-term housing stability.
As Ottawa’s third-largest affordable housing provider, MHI houses more than 1,500 residents in 422 units across nine communities. A tenth community, Odenak, is under development, continuing the organization’s commitment to affordable housing.
How you can help
DONATE
Donors may choose to direct their gifts to one of three areas: general operations, rent subsidies or tenant programs. During capital campaigns, donors can also make special contributions to support the development of new housing projects.
Every year through Tulipathon and other sources, MHI provides about $400,000 in rent subsidies to tenants who need extra support. Donations also help ensure tenants have access to free programs that promote wellbeing and stability.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers remain central to MHI’s mission. From serving on the board or committees, to helping at events, fundraising, leading workshops or improving housing communities, volunteers contribute in many ways.
MHI’s community engagement team works with volunteers to find roles that are meaningful and fulfilling.
ODENAK CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
Odenak is a new project in the heart of LeBreton Flats that will provide 133 affordable housing units owned and operated by Multifaith Housing Initiative. Odenak, an Algonquin Anishinàbe word meaning "community"', is being developed in partnership with Toronto-based Dream as part of a landmark mixed-income community located between Ādisōke, the new Ottawa Public Library, and Pimisi LRT station. The two-tower development will feature 608 rental units in total.
MHI’s affordable units, ranging from one to three bedrooms, will house about 400 people from equity-deserving groups. Thirty of the 133 units are dedicated to Indigenous households. Through the $1.6-million Odenak Capital Campaign, MHI is working to ensure these homes remain deeply and permanently affordable for Indigenous families and individuals.
Odenak is expected to be Canada’s largest residential zero-carbon development. MHI will provide an onsite community development team offering free programs and services to all tenants, in both affordable and marketrate units, to help build a strong and equitable community.
Construction of Odenak began in late 2024 and is scheduled for completion in December 2027. To-date, $1 million has been raised. Community support is needed to reach the remaining fundraising goal.
Events + fundraising
NATIONAL HOUSING DAY
National Housing Day is recognized every November across Canada to raise awareness about affordable housing and homelessness. On Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, MHI will host its annual event at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building. The theme, Communities Building Communities, will include an Indigenous welcome, updates on the Odenak development and a keynote on home and community.
HOUSING COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING
MHI offers free on-site programs across its nine housing communities, setting it apart from many other providers. Workshops and events — ranging from holiday celebrations such as Christmas, Eid and Jewish High Holidays to summer barbecues and learning workshops — bringing tenants, faith groups, neighbours and community leaders together to celebrate diverse cultures.
TULIPATHON
Every May, MHI hosts Tulipathon, a threekilometre walkathon fundraiser at Commissioners Park, Dow’s Lake. Walkers of all ages enjoy a scenic stroll through the tulips. Participants include members of MHI’s 80-plus faith groups, their congregations and the wider community.
Artist’s rendering of the Odenak development.
Founded in 1957, the Ottawa Safety Council (OSC) is a not-for-profit organization and registered charity dedicated to road safety through education and community engagement.
Jamie Kwong Executive Director Lori Henderson Chair
BOARD MEMBERS
Lori Henderson Chair
Dave Donaldson Vice Chair
Lucille Perrault Treasurer
Nathalie Guthrie Secretary Prasath Sarma Director Dwight Stewart Director Jonathan Thompson Director
Subhir Uppal Director
FUNDING SOURCES
BUSINESS LINES - FEE FOR SERVICES
(I.E. SCHOOL CROSSING GUARD SERVICES AND MOTORCYCLE TRAINING COURSES): 100%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa, Toronto, Brockville
For more than 50 years, the OSC has delivered motorcycle safety training and is now one of the largest providers of school crossing guard services, with operations in Ottawa, Toronto and Brockville. Core services, along with grants and donations, allow the organization to expand its free road safety education and awareness programs.
The OSC employs 14 office staff, 600 parttime employees and more than 40 volunteers.
What we do Programs Funding priorities
WalkSafe in-school presentations
For more than 15 years, the WalkSafe program has provided road safety education in schools across Ottawa. Supported by the City of Ottawa, the program teaches children how to walk and cross safely, the importance of being visible to drivers and the risks of distraction. With additional sponsorships and donations, the program could expand to reach communities outside schools.
RoadSMARTS4Kids (RS4K)
The RS4K program offers free digital resources to help elementary students learn about road safety. The library includes videos, lesson plans and virtual courses that cover topics from walking and cycling safety to booster seat use. The materials align with Ministry of Education curriculum requirements and are designed to be engaging and easy to use for both teachers and parents.
How you can help
Donations allow the OSC to build new programs and expand awareness campaigns that make roads safer for everyone. Additional funding helps extend free road safety education in schools and communities and supports public service announcements to reach a wider audience.
The organization continues to recruit individuals, sponsors and donors who share its mission of making roads safer for all.
• Expansion of school crossing guard services.
• Licensing of in-school road safety presentations for use across Canada.
• Licensing of school crossing guard training.
Motorcycle Training Program
Since 1967, the OSC’s Motorcycle Training Program has helped build safe and confident riders. As a recognized testing authority for the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario, the program trains students in both riding skills and safety-focused mental strategies. It is the only motorcycle training program in Ontario operated by a registered charity, delivered with the support of more than 40 certified volunteer instructors. With further support, the program could expand through additional workshops and courses.
Public education and partnerships
The OSC works with partners, schools and community groups to promote awareness of road safety. Campaigns are designed to protect vulnerable road users such as children, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. Sponsorships and donations help expand the reach of these initiatives.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers contribute by serving as motorcycle safety instructors, joining the board of directors or acting as community ambassadors at events across the city.
Learn more at ottawasafetycouncil.ca.
Events + fundraising
CROSSING GUARD APPRECIATION DAY — held annually during the first week of June (date confirmed each year).
A school crossing guard and children participate in a community road safety event.
Habitat’s homeownership model creates lasting change, delivering stability, financial independence, and an improved quality of life for families like Rebecca and her son Jack.
Director & Co-Chair, Affordable Homeownership Advisory Council
Wendy Grimshaw Board Chair
Danielle Robinson Director & Co-Chair, Revenue Advisory Council
Alison Sochasky Director & Co-Chair, Revenue Advisory Council
Leslie MacLean Director
Innogen Henderson Director
Cody Campanale Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES CORPORATE
CHARITIES: 0.1% OTHER: 67%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa and surrounding areas including: Petawawa, Pembroke, Renfrew, Arnprior, Carleton Place, Perth, Russell, Casselman, Rockland, Hawkesbury
What we do
Working with donors, supporters and partners, Habitat Greater Ottawa offers families an affordable path to homeownership — a permanent solution to housing instability. It is the only local charity providing a sustained route to ownership through construction, financing, skills training and advocacy.
Together, we build homes, communities and hope. Habitat Greater Ottawa also operates the ReStore, one of the city’s longest-running social enterprises — a local department store destination for affordable, quality furniture, décor, clothing and building materials. With three Ottawa locations, the ReStore welcomes shoppers, donors and volunteers. All profits support Habitat Greater Ottawa.
Programs and initiatives
• Capital priority: Funding for an upcoming 35unit townhome build in Ottawa’s east and west ends, opening the door to ownership for more families.
• Affordable Homeownership Program: Ongoing support as Habitat partners with families through a 25-year mortgage, ensuring they have the tools to thrive. Program services include:
• financial literacy training
• homeowner workshops on maintenance and repairs
• dedicated outreach and support
• connections to social services and community resources
Your investment helps build not only homes but stronger, healthier and more equitable communities.
How you can help
Habitat Greater Ottawa is committed to building 100 homes in the next five years, creating more opportunities for affordable ownership.
Ways to support include:
• monthly giving
• corporate sponsorship
• gala support
• major gifts
• selecting Habitat as a charity of choice for events
• shopping and donating at ReStore locations in Hintonburg (250 City Centre Ave., Unit 118), Stittsville (3 Iber Rd.) and Train Yards (768 Belfast Rd.)
Events + fundraising
Steel Toes & Stilettos Gala — the annual signature event — brings together more than 500 industry leaders and partners from the housing sector. The 20th gala takes place Nov. 8, 2025, at the Infinity Convention Centre. Details for the 2026 event will follow.
Habitat also hosts workshops at Ottawa ReStores on DIY, thrifting and upcycling using ReStore materials. Visit habitatgo.ca for details.
MAJOR FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGNS
Development of 35 homes
Goal: $20 million
Location: East and west ends of Ottawa
Timing: 2025–2027
Individuals can give one-time, monthly or major
Long-time supporters CLV Group join us for a Habitat Team Build Day at our Kemptville Korners project.
A gift to Habitat is an investment in a more equitable tomorrow.
VOLUNTEER
Habitat’s work is powered by volunteers. Support is needed not only on construction sites but also in ReStores — including the Stittsville distribution centre — through customer service, merchandising, organizing donations and operations support.
Office volunteers assist with special projects, research and administration, and event volunteers represent Habitat in the community. To learn more, email volunteer@habitatgo.ca.
gifts. Companies can sponsor builds or book team engagement days. To participate, contact sblanchard@habitatgo.ca.
Spring and holiday fundraising campaigns
Location: Ottawa (online and community outreach)
Timing: May–June and November–December
Seasonal campaigns engage donors, partners and the community to expand affordable homeownership.
Meaning of Home
Location: Ottawa and across Canada
Timing: January–February
An annual contest inviting students in grades 4–6 to submit a short story or poem about “home.” Each local entry generates a $10 donation and a chance to win a $30,000 build grant.
Rooted in Purpose, Growing with Impact: Gabrielle’s Story
Gabrielle was a human rights activist in Haiti, meeting her community’s needs on the frontlines. While she was visiting the University of Toronto to present as a guest lecturer, political tensions were quickly rising back home. She decided that requesting refugee status in Canada was the safest option for herself and her two children.
She was staying at a hotel in Ottawa when she connected with Fatme from the Y. Fatme explained the resources available to her, offering some hope amidst such an unexpected life change. At the Y, Gabrielle received resume support and learned valuable information about living in Canada, such as how to get a bus pass and dress for the winter.
Gabrielle wanted to give back. She started volunteering with the team, and soon got a job as a Customer Service Specialist. “I cried tears of joy because all I needed was one chance, and that’s exactly what the YMCA gave me — a chance to begin again.”
She was able to stabilize as she applied for housing, cared for her children, and made connections in her new city.
“Starting over in a new country is never easy, especially as a single mother of two, but I am fortunate to have the right people by my side. I feel truly blessed for everything I’ve been given, and I’m excited for the future ahead.”
“I cried tears of joy because all I needed was one chance, and that’s exactly what the YMCA gave me — a chance to begin again.”
Your donation changes lives
At the Y, we help people of all ages and stages of life when they need it most – encouraging them to reach their potential. Together, we create a lasting change that benefits our entire community. In 2024:
19,399 newcomers to Canada were welcomed into our community and provided with the support they need to thrive through Y Newcomer Service programs
12,850 people worked towards building a more secure future with help from Y Employment Access Centres
850 people gained valuable skills and put their education to work through Y Trades programs
477 young children were able to learn, create, and grow with guidance from caring mentors in Y Licensed Child Care programs
7,005 people were part of an encouraging community to make their health and wellness a priority in Y Health, Fitness, and Aquatics programs.
494 people found safety, a caring community, and a place to call home while rebuilding their lives in Y Housing Services
10,649 children and youth discovered new abilities, made life-long friends, and built leadership skills at Y Camps
YMCA OF THE NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION
180 Argyle Ave. Ottawa, Ont. K2P 1B7
ymcaottawa.ca donations@ymcaottawa.ca
Year founded: 1867
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $26,896,000
X: YMCA_Ottawa
Facebook: YMCAOttawa
Instagram: YMCAOttawa
Trevor McAlmont
President and CEO
BOARD MEMBERS
Anne Butler, Past Chair
Trevor Bhupsingh
Meseret Haileyesus
Andrea Johnston
Mark LeBlanc
Caroline Xavier Chair
What we do
The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a charitable association dedicated to igniting the potential in people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. We serve thousands
How you can help
GIVE
Every charity exists to help solve a problem, and the Y is no different — with the exception that our charity helps address many problems, from housing and child care shortages to social isolation, mental health issues, and more. Whether offering comfort and a safe home to those rebuilding their lives, helping children and youth develop self-confidence and independence, providing essential supports to newcomers to our region, or celebrating our members’ accomplishments in their quests for a healthier lifestyle, the Y is a foundation from which a brighter future and a stronger community can be built.
Events + fundraising
Y EMBASSY CHEF SHOWCASE 2025
Gregory MacMillan
Michael Naufal
Alia Tayyeb
Tricia Weagant
FUNDING SOURCES
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
of people each year, delivering a wide variety of programs and services that empower people of all ages and life stages to overcome barriers and rise to their full potential.
On March 26th, Ottawa’s vibrant diplomatic community gathered together for a one-of-akind culinary celebration — the Y Embassy Chef Showcase. Guests experienced an unforgettable evening of authentic dishes and beverage tasting, created by talented chefs from around the world, cultural exchange, and spirited competition. Thanks to the incredible support of attendees, sponsors, and embassy partners, the 2025 event raised $55,000 in support of vital YMCA programs for families and children in need. Join us for the next Y Embassy Chef Showcase on April 15, 2026!
Thanks to our committee and supporters, the Y Golf Classic is a big win for community!
LAWYERS FOR KIDS CHARITY HOCKEY TOURNAMENT 2025
On May 8, 2025, the annual Lawyers for Kids Charity Hockey Tournament was held at the Richcraft Sensplex, raising an outstanding $36,000 in support of the YMCA’s vital work in the community. This tournament was founded in honour of Jim O’Grady, a lawyer, passionate hockey player and dedicated member of the YMCA. Since its inception, the tournament has raised over $400,000, helping to improve the lives of children and families across Ottawa.
We don’t do this alone. With support from our generous donors, we are able to provide the tools, encouragement, and safe spaces to help people discover their inner strength. With us at their side, they are able to shine on.
VOLUNTEER
The YMCA relies on the time and dedication given by hundreds of volunteers each year. Y volunteers support all areas of service, from leading an exercise class, to welcoming new immigrants, guiding our Y’s path as a member on our Board of Directors, mentoring youth, or helping run our special events. No matter how you share your expertise, you will be making a big difference!
Y GOLF CLASSIC SEPTEMBER 2025
The Y Golf Classic took place on Sept. 15, 2025 at the Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club, raising more than $250,000 to help children and families in our communities live fuller, healthier lives. Since its inception in 2009, the Y Golf Classic has raised over $3.5 million dollars, with 100 per cent of the net funds raised helping local children, youth, and families
A dazzling night of global flavours all in support of YMCA programs.
Congratulations to Champs Norton Rose Fulbright
Your gift will reduce barriers, social isolation and loneliness, and improve the overall well-being of people with disabilities in our community.
Colleen and Sheena, Matched for 15 years
Did you know that mental health-related disabilities are rising faster than any other type of disability among Canadians? (Statistics Canada, 2022)
Sheena spent years battling mental health challenges, feeling isolated and alone, with frequent hospital stays as a result. Through ABLE2’s Matching Program, she was matched with her Ally, Colleen, and found a lifelong friendship rooted in trust, support and genuine connection.
“I’m lucky that ABLE2 acknowledged my mental illness as a disability and was there for me from the beginning. Since being matched with Colleen, I’ve only been hospitalized twice in 15 years,” says Sheena.
Empowering people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy.
What we do
ABLE2: SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Operating remotely.
For mailing donations: 1554 Carling Ave., PO Box M015, Ottawa, Ontario K1Z 7M4
able2.org info@able2.org
Year founded: 1974
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $2,320,107.00
Facebook: ABLE2
Instagram: able2ott
LinkedIn: ABLE2
Adrian Raghunandan
Chair
BOARD MEMBERS
Nick Korpikoski
Treasurer
Claire Smith
Secretary
Frank McNally
Matthew Sherman
Michael Barak
Randy Slepchik
Rick Burns
Tanya Singhal
Viji Sundaram
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa, Prescott and Russell, Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry
ABLE2 believes in an inclusive community where all people are seen as able, respected, and valued. People with disabilities confront issues of personal safety, accessibility, social isolation, and stigma. Our programs and services empower individuals of all ages and their families to build lives of meaning and joy as valued members of our community.
• Matching Program: Connects a person with disability (Friend) with a volunteer (Ally) for one-on-one connections through an intentional match.
• Fetal Alcohol Resource Program (FARP): Provides support and community navigation for individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and their families.
• Funding Brokerage: This service helps clients and their families manage finances in compliance with the policies and legal requirements of the funding organization.
• Reach Legal Referral Services: Provides legal support and access to justice for people with disabilities, through its network of more than 200 volunteer lawyers, mediators, and
How you can help
DONATE
Your gift fuels programs and services that open doors and create opportunities for people with disabilities to thrive.
VOLUNTEER
Share your time and skills to help people with disabilities build meaningful connections, access support, and exercise their rights with dignity.
ADVOCATE
Be a voice for inclusion—raise awareness, challenge stigma, and help build a community where everyone belongs.
Events + fundraising
Mark Your Calendars: Giving Tuesday – December 2
Give the gift of empowerment for people with disabilities this Giving Tuesday. Corporate partners can double the impact through Matching Gifts. The campaign continues through December, so your end-of-year gift ensures ABLE2 can start 2026 strong, ready to provide support, resources, and hope to even more people in our community.
Evening in the Maritimes: Celebrating 30 Years Ottawa’s premier fundraising gala, Evening in the Maritimes, returns for its 30th anniversary on May 14, 2026, at The Westin Ottawa. Join 500+ distinguished guests to enjoy Good Food, Good Times, for a Great Cause—supporting ABLE2’s vital work of empowering people with disabilities. Tickets go on sale January 2026.
paralegals in the Ottawa and Champlain regions. Clients may receive up to three hours of free, confidential, and personal legal services.
• Housing Support Program: Offers tailored support to adults with developmental disabilities to identify housing goals, build a plan, and work through barriers.
• GROW Education Series: Delivers accessible, relevant, expert-led workshops and presentations, covering topics such as disability rights, legal education and navigating the justice system, workplace inclusion, etc.
CONTACT US: volunteer@able2.org
Planned Giving with ABLE2: Your Legacy of Inclusion Create a lasting legacy through planned gifts to ABLE2. Your estate gift ensures future generations of people with disabilities receive vital resources and opportunities to thrive in an inclusive community where everyone is seen as able, important, and valued.
ABLE2 Program Users at the 2024 Annual Picnic
EiTM Dockside Chat with Emcee Patricia Boal, and Match Mark and Daniel
Volunteer Meghan with Program Users Marsha and Butch
What we do
BYTOWN MUSEUM
1 Canal Lane
Ottawa, Ont.
K1P 5P6
bytownmuseum.ca
info@bytownmuseum.ca
Year founded: 1917
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $635,986
Facebook: /bytown
Twitter: /bytownmuseum
Kelly Eyamie Executive Director, interim
Anastasia Pivnicki Chair, Board of Directors
BOARD MEMBERS
Colin Morrison Vice-Chair
Scott MacDonald Secretary
Chelsea Tao Treasurer
Ellen Bertrand Director
Megan Bocking Director
Tim Denison Director
Aziz Mehira Director
Lilia Trombetti Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
10%
INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS: 1%
OTHER: 3%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
The Bytown Museum, Ottawa’s oldest community museum, is housed in the city’s oldest stone building at the site where the city’s story began. Through exhibitions and programs, the museum shares Ottawa’s evolution — from its Anishinàbe Algonquin roots and the arrival of Lt.-Col. John By in 1826 to the multicultural capital it is today.
With a focus on accessibility and cultural representation, exhibits include multilingual interpretation and a 10-language audio guide, with two Indigenous languages. The museum engages the community through education, public events and partnerships, making it a hub for history and connection.
PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES
New programs for 2026, Ottawa’s bicentennial year
• What’s in a Frame: 200+ Years of Community Portraits (May 2026–April 2028): A temporary exhibition celebrating Ottawa’s people, past and present, with historic and newly commissioned portraits, interactive elements and community co-creation.
• Public Art Trail (beginning May 2026): In partnership with the Ottawa Art Gallery, archival images and contemporary artworks will turn downtown Ottawa into an open-air gallery connecting history, art and community.
How you can help
As Ottawa marks its bicentennial in 2026, the Bytown Museum is raising funds for projects including What’s in a Frame, the Public Art Trail, Colonel By Comes to Life and a three-day event. Donations help expand access, engage diverse communities and create a living portrait of Ottawa for future generations.
Events + fundraising
DOORS OPEN OTTAWA
Location: Bytown Museum
Date: First weekend in June
Free admission and guided tours offering a chance to explore Ottawa’s oldest stone building.
COLONEL BY DAY
Location: Bytown Museum
Date: August long weekend
A free, family-friendly celebration featuring live music, an art fair and cultural demonstrations.
200 FOR 200 YEARS
Location: Museum-wide and city-wide
Date: Ongoing through 2026
A fundraising campaign inviting donations of $2, $20, $200, $2,000 and more in support of bicentennial projects.
• Colonel By Comes to Life (September 2026): An ambulatory play by Ottawa playwright Pierre Brault will bring the founder of Bytown to life inside the museum.
• Three-Day Bicentennial commemoration (Sept. 25–27, 2026): A citywide event anchored by museum exhibitions, featuring interactive programming, live interpretation and activities across the ByWard Market, City Hall and other sites.
Funding priorities
• Support for bicentennial exhibitions, performances and public events.
• Expanding access for underserved audiences.
• Co-creating a citywide portrait of Ottawa to foster civic pride and connection.
• Sponsorships and partnerships to enhance community impact and engagement with heritage.
VOLUNTEER
The museum offers volunteer opportunities for individuals and corporate groups. Roles include visitor experience and special event support, as well as behind-the-scenes assistance with collections, research and administration. Those with professional expertise may apply to join the board of directors, focusing on governance and planning. The museum welcomes adults and students. For details, visit bytownmuseum.ca/volunteer.
FLOW THROUGH TIME: A YOGA
FUNDRAISER FOR THE BYTOWN MUSEUM
Location: Bytown Museum
Date: August 2026 (TBD)
A wellness-focused event along the Rideau Canal that raises funds for educational programs.
BYTOWN MUSEUM’S 109TH BIRTHDAY TRIVIA CHALLENGE
Location: Bytown Museum
Date: October 25, 2026 (event date TBD)
A community trivia event celebrating the museum’s anniversary and raising funds for operations and exhibitions.
A visitor uses 3D digital technology and a 10-language audio guide at the Bytown Museum.
UNITED WAY EAST ONTARIO
363 Coventry Rd.
Ottawa, Ont. K1K 2C5
unitedwayeo.ca | centraideeo.ca
info@unitedwayeo.ca
Year founded: 1933
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $23,411,586
LinkedIn: United Way East Ontario - Centraide de l'Est de l'Ontario
Facebook: Unitedwayeo
Instagram: unitedwayeo
Kelly Mertl Vice-President, Community Impact
BOARD MEMBERS
Dennise Taylor-Gilhen
Board Secretary, Interim
President & CEO, United Way East Ontario
Sean McKenny Board Treasurer
George Brown Past Chair
Nicki Collins
Chair, United Way East
Ontario Advisory Council for Lanark County
Nathalie Ladouceur
Chair, United Way East
Ontario Advisory Council for Prescott-Russell
Thom Donnelly Chair, Board of Directors
DIRECTORS:
Fahd Alhattab
Jessica Barrow
Erin Benjamin
Dr. Pino Buffone
Lauren Dodds
Oliver Jacob
Tracy L. Lavallee B.A., J.D.
Wilson Lo
Jennifer Madigan
Will Majic
Glenn Sheen
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
What we do
United Way East Ontario breaks down barriers, improves lives and creates opportunities for the people who need us most in Prescott-Russell, Ottawa, Lanark County and Renfrew County.
How you can help
When you give to United Way East Ontario —online, at your workplace, or at an event—you help kids achieve success, ensure people facing mental health crises receive support, and enable seniors to maintain independence and connection. Donors can deepen their involvement through Women United and GenNext. Women United members leverage their time, talent and funds to empower women through grants and engagement events. GenNext is a social impact movement that supports the next generation of changemakers.
Events + fundraising
MOVE FOR YOUTH
May 1–15 across Ottawa, Renfrew County, Lanark County and Prescott-Russell Move for Youth is an activity challenge where every step raises awareness and support for vulnerable kids. From homework clubs to mental health services, every step helps children get what they need to succeed.
COMMUNITY BUILDERS
The Community Builder program recognizes outstanding volunteers and champions who make our communities better. Each year, United Way East Ontario presents a Community Builder of the Year Award to a group, individual or organization making a measurable impact. Learn more: uwcommunitybuilders.ca
ANNUAL GIVING CAMPAIGN
Hundreds of organizations work with us each year as part of their corporate social responsibility story. Workplace campaigns engage employees, highlight organizations as community leaders and raise essential funds for vulnerable people. While most visible in the fall, our campaign is active yearround—online, at events, in donor mailboxes and in the community—supporting the more than 87,000 people who rely on us annually. Learn more: unitedwayeo.ca/donate
We work with a network of engaged donors and partners to address root causes and deliver longterm solutions to local issues such as mental health and addictions, housing and homelessness, poverty and basic needs, as well as challenges affecting seniors and caregivers, and children and youth.
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Prescott-Russell, Ottawa, Lanark County and Renfrew County
Every year, hundreds of workplaces partner with us to make measurable impacts across the region. Workplace fundraising campaigns engage employees who generously contribute their time and leadership, helping tens of thousands of people across our communities.
Throughout the year, we also call on our community to assemble care kits for people fleeing gender-based violence, youth experiencing homelessness, and low-income families preparing for the school year.
Interested volunteers can learn more at unitedwayeo.ca/volunteer.
YouthNet/RéseauAdo (YNRA) named 2024 Community Builder of the Year for leadership in youth mental health.
GIVING TUESDAY & HOLIDAY MATCH
December 2
Giving Tuesday marks the start of the holiday giving season. With corporate sponsors such as TD matching donations, every dollar goes further to support people in need.
SOMETHING TASTY FOR NOVEMBER
November 1–30
Local restaurants compete in United Way’s Ultimate Burger Battle. For every burger sold, $2 supports United Way initiatives. It’s a chance to enjoy unique flavours, support local businesses and strengthen communities.
Learn more: unitedwayeo.ca/UltimateBurgerBattle
Move for Youth launch, May 1, 2025. Staff and sponsors walk to raise awareness and support for vulnerable kids.
OTTAWA SCHOOL OF ART / ÉCOLE D'ART D'OTTAWA
35 George St. Ottawa, Ont. K1N 8W5
Artottawa.ca
info@artottawa.ca 613-241-7471
Year founded: 1879
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $2,261,347
LinkedIn: Ottawa School of Art
Facebook: ArtOttawa
Instagram: artottawa
Heather Simpson President, Board of Directors
BOARD MEMBERS
Judith Donin Vice President
Nancy Nicks Treasurer
Zoriana Priadka
Secretary
Danielle Baker Community Member
Corinne Nieto Henshaw Community Member
Andrew Fay Executive Director
What we do
The Ottawa School of Art is a non-profit organization that offers a full range of specialized art courses for adults, teens and children in drawing, painting, photography, sculpture and ceramics, printmaking, cartooning and more.
We host artist-in-residence workshops, operate an art boutique, curate exhibitions in our ByWard Market and Orléans galleries, host solo and group shows by local and international artists, and run the Lee Matasi Gallery for student showcases. The OSA also offers a three-year Fine Arts Diploma, Portfolio Certificate, Arts Fundamentals Certificate, and Outreach program.
How you can help
FUNDRAISING PRIORITIES
The outreach program is dedicated to removing all economic barriers (no enrolment fees, no art supply costs) art instructor provided and classes are taught in the neighbourhood at a local community house or community centre. Participants are also given the opportunity to showcase their work in a group exhibition held each year in our ByWard Market gallery.
For students who are unable to afford the full cost of a course, we have a bursary program that, along with funding set aside in the annual budget, is made possible by several named and anonymous donors. The value of each individual
Our teen Summer Art Camp wrapped up with laughter, new friendships, and plenty of inspiration.
bursary given depends on the level of financial assistance indicated on the application form and the availability of funds.
These programs are supported through our fundraising initiatives and donations are also accepted online, by phone, in-person and by post.
YOUR DONATION WILL SUPPORT
• Our Bursary program which supplements tuition costs for students who are unable to afford the full cost of a course or day camp
• Outreach programming that provides free community-based art classes and art supplies for children and youth
• Three (3) accessible Gallery spaces open for free to the public that attract over 50,000 visitors each year
Shirley Yik Finance Committee
Robyn Heaton Finance Committee
Susan Chibuk Community Member
Patricia Kenny Community Member
Robert Helal Community Member
Events + fundraising
HOLIDAY FUNDRAISING ART SALE
November 27 - December 14, 2025): Works by members of the Ottawa School of Art, (OSA), are being showcased, (and are for sale!), in our ByWard campus’, J.W. Stellick Gallery, located at 35 George Street, Ottawa, ON. Proceeds are split between participating artists and the OSA.
Funds raised help support OSA’s Bursary and Outreach programs. This annual holiday tradition features a wide selection of original, affordable works of art by OSA students, instructors, and local artists. It’s the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting the school and local artists.
TUITION:
Ottawa, Gatineau and surrounding area; campus in Orléans TOP FUNDING SOURCES
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
You are not only purchasing a one-of-a-kind piece of art, but you are also supporting a local artist and supporting an important cause!
WOULD YOU CHANGE A LIFE FOR $160?
The Help Our Students Program (HOST Program) was founded by two local friends to help Ottawa students living in difficult financial circumstances stay in high school until they graduate.
“I used the Host Program award to help me stay in school. I had to stop my part-time work due to my depression being so severe. The Host Program gave me money to stay in school during those rough times.
It is really important that I am capable of providing for myself because my mother is a single mother, and she cannot always provide for me.”
Allyshia is currently on scholarship at Carleton University towards a Forensic Sciences degree.
The students that are selected by their school are working hard to stay in school but it isn’t easy. In far too many cases, they don’t know when their next meal will be. Many need to either quit school to get a job to support their family or take on too many part-time hours that cuts the amount of time they have for schoolwork.
The HOST Program gives them $160 per month (September to June).
It gives them hope that they may be the first in the family to graduate high school, hope to go to college or university, and hope to realize their dreams.
Change a life. Help another student graduate high school.
To donate. please visit our website at helpourstudentsprogram.com
The HOST Program, a registered charity (CRA # 814474730RR001), is a rarity: 100% of all donations go to a student in need.
Richard Lussier Co-founder, President and Chair of the Board
BOARD MEMBERS
Linda Lussier Secretary and Director
Dr. Chris Carruthers, MD Director
Suzanne Donnelly Director
Carman Joynt, FCPA, FCA, ICD.C Director
Genevieve Kosavic Director
Donald J. Stephenson Co-founder and Vice-President
Aanhout
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS: 81%
OTHER CHARITIES: 15%
CORPORATE DONATIONS: 3% OTHER: >1%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
The Help Our Students Program provides $1,600 awards to hard-working students living in difficult financial circumstances in order to help them graduate high school. The recipients, selected by school officials, receive $160 per month from September through June directly into their RBC bank account, with 100 per cent of all donations going directly to support students. All work is done by volunteers and all administrative expenses are paid by the Board of Directors.
Each student is asked to write a letter at the end of the school year, describing how the award has impacted their lives and, generally, how they spent the funds. We know from the letters that the recipients use the money to buy food for themselves and their family, for school supplies and field trips, and to help with other family expenses.
What we do Funding priorities
In the 2025-26 year, we are providing $160 per month from September to June to at least four students in each of Ottawa’s 65 youth high schools. We aspire to be able to support at least five students in every high school and to provide them with $250 per month.
How you can help
DONATE
Despite Ottawa being a wealthy city, there are far too many students who struggle to stay in school due to their difficult financial circumstances. Supporters love that the students receive the award funds directly into their own bank account and need to learn how to plan and manage their money.
Potential donors can choose to support a particular school or a particular area of the city. The recipients' letters clearly make our donors aware of the significant impact of their donation on the students' lives.
VOLUNTEER
We have introduced the School Ambassador Program. Each Ambassador will represent the Help
Events + fundraising
HOST student Christine Angnetsiak graduated from Urban Aboriginal High School in 2023. She is the first person in her family to graduate high school. She wrote “I saved some of the money to put towards a plane ticket to Nunavut to see my family before I attend Algonquin College. I have only seen my entire family that lives in Nunavut three times since I was nine years old; not many of them are able to attend my high-school graduation which is a huge accomplishment in my family.. I thought it would be a great surprise for me to go in the summer as a high-school graduate and soon-to-be college student. It took a lot for me to be able to accomplish and create goals for myself but with the HOST Award funds I got, it helped me see my potential which encouraged me to follow my dreams.”
Our Students Program in four to six schools in a specific geographical area. Ambassadors will followup on the selection of students and the securing of their RBC bank account. This is a volunteer position requiring only a few hours per week. Contact us at hostprogram@rogers.com if you are interested.
tireless champion for vulnerable children and youth across Canada. He served as Board Chair of The Joyce Family Foundation since 2019 and trustee since 2010. We are very honoured to receive the grant in his honour. Peter
In June, we were granted $50,000 for three years from the Joyce Family Foundation. The grant was made in honour of the late Honourable Ed Lumley, P.C. C.M., the former Mayor of Cornwall, Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister. He was a
Give
The Clinic provides sur vivors with complex needs with trauma-informed heal th care f rom a specialized team.
Youth are suppor ted as they exit f rom human traff icking and rebuild their lives through the Hope Found and Path Found projects. . Hope where before there was none. Choice that had been taken away.
Strength Found helps people who were sexually abused as children to heal f rom a lifetime of trauma.
VOICE FOUND Ottawa, Ont.
www.voicefound.ca info@voicefound.ca
Year founded: 2011
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $1,300,000
Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook / X: @voicefound
Cynthia Bland Founder and CEO
Stéphanie Montreuil Board Chair BOARD MEMBERS
Elaine Chan Secretary
Jason Ward, CPA, CA Treasurer
Ed Mantler, RPN, MSA, CHE Director
Gilberto L. Cedolia Director
Stacey Kirkpatrick, MACP, RP Director
Greg Gilhooly Director
Colin MacPhee, CPA Director
Keith Egli Director
Cynthia Bland, Ex Officio Founder & CEO
TOP FUNDING SOURCES GOVERNMENT FUNDING: 64% OTHER CHARITIES: 20%
INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS: 5%
OTHER: 11%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa and Eastern Ontario
What we do
Voice Found is a leader in providing livedexperience, trauma-informed, barrier-free and ongoing recovery support for survivors of human trafficking and childhood sexual abuse.
In our city, human trafficking is an active and growing crime. The average age of recruitment is just 13 — and more than 90 per cent of those trafficked have been sexually abused as children. The impacts are profound, complex and lifelong. Survivors need long-term, specialized care in spaces where they feel safe, heard and supported. That is what we provide.
PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES
The Clinic
Trauma-informed and person-centred medical care designed around survivors’ unique needs. No identification is required.
Hope Found Project
For individuals exiting trafficking, our first priority is safety. From there, we meet immediate needs — food, clothing, shelter, safety planning, relocation, peer support and stabilization. Longer-term support includes
How you can help
The demand for our services is growing — youth aged 12 to 18 accessing support has increased by 82 per cent. When someone is ready to leave a trafficking situation, we cannot put them on a wait-list. The need is immediate.
Your donations make it possible for us to respond right away — whether that means offering safety, medical care, peer support or simply being there to listen when someone is in crisis. For a survivor experiencing suicidal thoughts or using substances to cope with trauma, having timely, compassionate support can mean the difference between despair and hope.
Your generosity saves lives and helps survivors rebuild them.
“I have spent eight years in weekly therapy. I have been in and out of the best mental health hospitals in Ottawa. I have tried many medications and therapists, and none of it was able to give me any hope or help me hate myself any less.
But after about six months with Voice Found I feel like I actually have a future and I am actually excited for it, which is a new feeling for me.”
— Voice Found client
replacing stolen ID, addressing debts imposed by traffickers, court support and walking alongside survivors as they rebuild their lives.
Strength Found
Programs that help survivors of childhood sexual abuse understand that they are not alone and that what happened to them was not their fault. Through one-on-one peer support, social activities and groups, we build a strong, caring community where every survivor feels safe and heard.
Ethical Peer Support Training
Survivors deserve peer supporters who are skilled and supported themselves. We developed specialized training for those offering peer support to people who have experienced trafficking, childhood sexual abuse or exploitation.
Community education
Voice Found also provides specialized training and education to help professionals and community members recognize and respond to childhood sexual abuse and human trafficking.
Events
+ fundraising
TRAUMA TALKS
Each year we host Trauma Talks, an event where survivors lead conversations on trauma related to childhood sexual abuse. Too often, discomfort and silence allow abuse to continue. These important conversations help us face that discomfort, raise awareness and move toward prevention. The next event date is still to be scheduled.
THIRD-PARTY EVENTS
As a small but mighty team, we are grateful when individuals and groups organize events to raise funds on our behalf. If you’re interested in hosting an event to support our work, please contact cynthia@voicefound.ca.
IMPACT HIGHLIGHTS
• 13 — Average age of recruitment into trafficking
• 90 per cent — Of trafficked people were sexually abused as children
• 82 per cent increase — In youth (ages 12 to 18) seeking support from Voice Found
• Immediate response matters — Survivors cannot wait when safety and survival are at stake
• “Your generosity saves lives” — Every donation provides safety, hope and healing
Left to right: Stacey Kirkpatrick, MACP, RP, survivor and author; Marita Smith, RN and sexual health educator; Carrie Whitley, nurse practitioner; and Keith Egli, former Ottawa City Council councillor and survivor.
HOME IS HERE
Join us in buildingamore welcoming community
Our city and country have long recognized the value and benefits of diversity. We know it is a strength, and by supporting newcomers, CCI is invested in reinforcing it.
14,000+
700
116 clients supported individuals & families received housing support
full-time jobs secured with support from the community and employment connections team
We hope you’ll join us in building a stronger Ottawa. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.
219 Argyle Ave, Ottawa, Ont. K2P 1B8
cciottawa.ca
info@cciottawa.ca
Year founded: 1954
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $17,716,983
Myriam Mekni CEO
Deacon Charles Fink Board Chair
What we do
For more than 70 years, CCI Ottawa has worked to build an inclusive city where immigrants and refugees are supported, connected and empowered. The agency is a full-service settlement organization with programs across multiple departments. Using a client-centred approach, staff provide targeted case management, needs assessments, help with official documents and paperwork, information and orientation sessions, crisis counselling, housing assistance, translation, language classes and support navigating public services such as health care, the CRA and Service Ontario.
How you can help
Donor support helps fill critical gaps and allows CCI to respond quickly to urgent needs, including food security, housing instability, access to medical supplies and supports for children and youth in school. These gifts strengthen neighbourhoods, foster a more inclusive economy and help build a city where everyone has the chance to belong.
In addition to programs at the Argyle location, CCI Ottawa operates four transitional housing sites. Each site provides shelter, food and wraparound services to support clients as they move into permanent housing.
Tens of thousands of immigrants and refugees have accessed services, each bringing a unique story and seeking a place to belong. The work is about people as much as programs — helping newcomers feel seen, supported and connected to community. This legacy of welcome has contributed to Ottawa’s growth as a diverse, vibrant city, made possible by supporters who recognize that when newcomers thrive, the whole city benefits.
VOLUNTEER
More than 400 volunteers are engaged across Ottawa, and CCI continues to welcome new volunteers for programming, event support, mentorship, skills building and conversation circles. To get involved, contact bryn@cciottawa.ca.
BOARD MEMBERS
Luise Czernenko Reid Emeritus Chair
Pauline Gagne Treasurer
Elena Gallitto Director
Jocelyn Mimeault Director
Sushil Pandit Director
Michael Qaqish Director
Angela J.Williams Director
Community Events
CCI hosts a range of community events that help clients connect and experience the city. The annual Culture Cafe, summer Picnic in the Park, day trips and outings to enjoy Ottawa's sports teams are all part of our community event calendar. The team at CCI are always planning and developing new ways to connect community and are currently working towards creating a community festival featuring food, music, activities and local vendors to encourage cultural exchange.
Government and institutional funding supports much of the work, but donor contributions help close gaps and enable timely responses to real needs throughout a newcomer’s settlement journey. To discuss monthly giving, grant opportunities or social-impact partnerships, contact the fundraising team.
Contact for more information: Jen Haddow ( jennifer@cciottawa.ca)
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
CCI Ottawa team members host a job fair in 2024, attended by more than 600 people.
Participants gather for CCI Ottawa’s Culture Café in 2024, an evening of music and cultural exchange.
CCI Ottawa marks its 70th anniversary with a gala in 2024.
LinkedIn: Veterans’ House Canada Facebook and Instagram: @vetshousecan
Brigadier-General (Ret’d)
Alan Mulawyshyn
Executive Director Mark Eldridge President
BOARD MEMBERS
Andre Corbould
Board Member
Cal Hegge
Treasurer
Sheila McIntyre
Secretary
J’lyn Nye Board Member
Darlene Boileau
Board Member
Dave Gordon Board Member
Klaus Kollenberg Board Member
TOP FUNDING SOURCES INDIVIDUAL
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
What we do
Veterans’ House Canada provides housing and support services for former members of the Canadian Armed Forces experiencing homelessness. Residents live in a community of military peers with access to counselling, peer mentoring and other services that address the causes of homelessness and support reintegration into the wider community.
“If you’ve got a roof over your head, everything else is possible.”
— Bill Beaton, Veterans’ House Canada tenant Tenants often face complex and varied needs. Support begins with safe housing and continues with programs tailored to mental health, physical rehabilitation and transition to civilian life.
As part of its reintegration efforts, the annual Remembrance Day ceremony has become an important opportunity for residents to engage with the public and take pride in their identity. Tenants help plan and run the event, which has grown steadily and now draws many supporters from the nearby Wateridge Village community.
How you can help
DONATE
Contributions support housing and services at the Andy Carswell Building in Ottawa. Since 2021, more than 74 veterans from across Canada have been housed there.
GIVE MONTHLY
Regular donations provide stable funding for programs. A monthly gift of $50 adds up to $600 a year, supporting weekly community meals and emergency needs.
SUPPORT EDMONTON EXPANSION
Veterans’ House Canada is building a second permanent residence in Edmonton, with 40 individual suites and a fundraising goal of $6 million. Community contributions of $100 to $1,000 will help open the doors by fall 2026.
DONATE SECURITIES
Gifts of stocks and shares can be transferred directly, often providing greater value than cash donations. More information is available on the Canada Revenue Agency website or from a financial adviser.
CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS
Organizations are invited to consider longterm partnerships that support permanent, affordable housing for at-risk veterans.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers assist with programs and events. In Edmonton, opportunities include event and program support. In Ottawa, volunteers are needed for community meals, advocacy, fundraising, Remembrance Week activities and donation collections at BMO branches in Ottawa and Gatineau.
Events + fundraising
VETERANS’ WEEK FUNDRAISER
• Locations: BMO branches in Ottawa, Gatineau and Edmonton
• A week-long in-branch campaign to raise awareness and funds for veterans experiencing homelessness, addictions and other challenges.
• Proceeds support the Edmonton project, scheduled to open in fall 2026.
REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY
• Nov. 11, 2025, Veterans’ House – The Andy Carswell Building, 745 Mikinak Rd., Ottawa, Ont.
• Annual ceremony in honour of veterans.
YEAR-END AND CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
• The Andy Carswell Building, 745 Mikinak Rd., Ottawa, Ont.
• A seasonal initiative inviting donations of gifts, non-perishable items and gently used goods for veterans.
Community members and residents take part in a Remembrance Day service at Veterans’ House Canada’s Andy Carswell Building.
Golfers participate in the annual charity tournament at Eagles Nest Golf Club in Maple, Ont., in support of Veterans’ House Canada’s Edmonton project.
Guests attend the fifth annual Canada Flag Day Dinner at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 632 in Orléans on Feb. 15, 2025. Proceeds supported Veterans experiencing homelessness. The 2026 event will be held at Ottawa City Hall.
Ottawa Riverkeeper is leading the effort to protect one of Canada’s most important freshwater treasures: the Ottawa River and its vast network of tributaries.
Whether you paddle, sail, swim, fish, walk the shoreline or are one of the two million people who rely on the Ottawa River for drinking water, the river is there for you. Our mission is simple: keep the Ottawa River swimmable, drinkable and fishable.
Colleen Westeinde Board Chair
Gilbert Whiteduck
Jessica Ferguson
Melissa Hammell
Michelle Campbell
Timothy Carmack
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
The Ottawa River watershed (Ontario/Quebec)
For nearly 25 years, Ottawa Riverkeeper has been the only organization working across the entire watershed to protect the mighty Kichi Sibi. As part of the global Waterkeeper Alliance, we stand with communities around the world in the fight for freshwater protection.
We deliver tangible, measurable results:
• Restoring shorelines and ecosystems: In 2024, more than 800 volunteers joined 13 cleanups, removing over 1,600 kilograms of trash.
• Inspiring the next generation: Our River School connects thousands of children to the river each year through hands-on learning about river health and protection.
• Science: We monitor 14 key indicators of watershed health and released the first-ever Ottawa River Watershed Report Card in 2024 — a major milestone for the river’s future.
• Defending biodiversity: We protect critical species such as the endangered American eel and local turtles that are vital to a thriving watershed.
• Fostering stewardship: At the NCC River House, thousands of visitors explore interactive, museum-quality exhibits that spark lifelong connections to the river.
How you can help
DONATE
Your gift powers programs in three core areas: education, science and action.
VOLUNTEER
From shoreline cleanups to our annual gala, water quality sampling and more, volunteers power our mission to protect the Ottawa River.
Events + fundraising
THE BIG RIVER GIVE
The Big River Give is our largest fundraising campaign ever, with a $5-million goal. Together, we can protect the health of our waterways now and for generations to come.
RIVERKEEPER GALA
The Riverkeeper Gala is one of the most highprofile, talked-about and fun events on the Ottawa social calendar. Visit riverkeepergala.com for details.
LEARN
At our public education space at the NCC River House, you can discover the river’s ecology, biodiversity and health.
TAKE ACTION
Report pollution and invasive species, join a cleanup, reduce your use of road salt and follow Ottawa Riverkeeper to stay informed about petitions and policy change.
Ottawa Riverkeeper staff with water samples collected at a local beach.
Riverwatchers and youth on a paddling excursion on the Ottawa River.
Two generations enjoying fishing together from the shore of the Ottawa River.
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $107,632.00 (2024) Facebook: /tfkottawa
Catherine Weaver Program Manager Joanne Galloway Board President
BOARD MEMBERS
Marc Brûlé Vice-President
David Mirsky Treasurer
David Nesbitt Director
Rohan Ray Director
Charlie Webster Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS: 10%
CORPORATE DONATIONS: 19%
GOVERNMENT FUNDING: 71%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
Trips for Kids Ottawa works with youth who are often marginalized, including those who are economically disadvantaged, new to Canada, Black, Indigenous and people of colour, LGBTQ2S+ and neurodivergent youth. From retrofitted shipping containers beside schools, the organization runs free after-school biking and skating programs, with equipment, healthy snacks and transportation provided.
What we do Funding priorities
Trips for Kids Ottawa’s current priority is building stable funding through monthly and annual contributions from diverse sources. This support would strengthen our resilience as an organization, empowering us to grow, innovate, and adapt
How you can help
Trips for Kids Ottawa is fundraising to create stability so after-school recreation is an opportunity every child can enjoy, not a privilege. When youth have the chance to ride, skate and spend time outdoors together, they gain more than skills — they find belonging, courage and the confidence to be themselves.
Supporters give because they recognize the deeper impact of their contribution: closing gaps in inequality, affirming that every young person matters and equipping them with both tools and community to thrive.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers play a central role at Trips for Kids Ottawa. Skills in marketing, social media, grant writing, event planning, bicycle maintenance, food preparation and communications all make a difference for local youth. Volunteers are also welcome to assist at lunch-hour skates and during weekly after-school biking and skating programs. Those looking for ongoing involvement may
Your impact
Two senior participants recently turned their time with Trips for Kids Ottawa into their first summer jobs. After building confidence, leadership skills and biking abilities in the program, they successfully applied to work with a local learn-to-ride summer bike camp.
With help from a volunteer bike mechanic, they sourced bikes and helmets, and received guidance on preparing and tuning their equipment — turning a potential barrier into an opportunity.
This reflects the mission of Trips for Kids Ottawa: removing obstacles, building capacity and helping youth move from supported participants to confident leaders.
The approach is designed to remove barriers and create belonging. Youth gain confidence, leadership skills, resilience and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity. Some become peer mentors, while others simply enjoy being outdoors. For many, the programs provide more than recreation — they offer community, healing and opportunity in the places where youth need it most.
our programs to meet the evolving needs of our community. It also enables us to plan for the long term, deepening the impact of our programs— helping youth gain confidence, build connections and community.
consider serving as equipment co-ordinator, a role that helps keep programs safe and running smoothly.
Whether offering one hour a month or several hours a week, volunteer support is valued. Retirees with daytime availability are encouraged to join. Interested volunteers can complete the form at tripsforkidsottawa.ca/get-involved.
Retrofitted shipping containers serve as the program hub for Trips for Kids Ottawa.
Skaters gather at centre ice during a program session.
Please consider how you can share your warmth with a child this winter. Make a donation, volunteer or organize a fundraiser.
The Snowsuit Fund is actively seeking corporate partners for a variety of fundraising initiatives. Your support can inspire others to give. Please contact us at communications@snowsuitfund.com.
THE SNOWSUIT FUND
134-225 Donald St. Ottawa, Ont. K1K 1N1
joanne.andrews@snowsuitfund.com snowsuitfund.com
Year founded: 1981
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $1,425,929
Facebook: snowsuitfund
Instagram: the_snowsuit_fund
Martin Masse
Chairperson Joanne Andrews General Manager
BOARD MEMBERS
Oscar Arrieta
Ian Burns
Archie Crichton-Stuart
Lise Clement
Susan Dennison
Ransome DrCar
Patricia Ferguson
Trina Fraser
Jodie Harrison
Steve Monuk
Daljit Nirman
Leif Olson
Lauren Parkes
Jon Sinden
Ray Skaff
Andrew Watson
Amanda Young
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
50/50 LOTTERY: 38%
31%
21%
SOURCES: 6%
CHARITIES: 4%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
What we do
For more than 40 years, The Snowsuit Fund has been a lifeline for Ottawa families, providing brand-new snowsuits each year to children 15 and under from low-income households.
Last year, we distributed a record 19,500 snowsuits — and the need is growing.
Every child deserves more than warmth in winter. They deserve the chance to play outside, stay healthy and feel like they belong. But for many families, winter clothing is out of reach as food, rent and utilities must come first.
A snowsuit is more than fabric and zippers. It means outdoor play that keeps children active and strong, the confidence to walk proudly among peers, and the focus to succeed in school. One snowsuit can spark self-esteem, pride and a sense of inclusion — strengthening not only the child, but also their family and community.
The Snowsuit Fund is powered almost entirely by volunteers and community generosity. With no government funding, we rely on the kindness of individuals, businesses and organizations who give their time, resources and talent to keep Ottawa’s children warm.
How you can help
FUNDRAISING PRIORITIES
The need has never been greater. More Ottawa families are turning to The Snowsuit Fund for help through our harsh winters. To meet this growing demand, we rely on corporate support to purchase and distribute thousands of new snowsuits each year.
Thanks to our long-standing partnerships and bulk purchasing power, we negotiate the best possible prices with trusted Canadian suppliers — stretching every dollar further to help more children.
Sponsor an event
DINNER PARTY IN A BOX
Back for its sixth year on November 29, Dinner Party in a Box returns with a special ode to Canada. Beckta curates this luxurious at-home dining experience for two, including signature cocktails, premium wine and craft beer, handpicked gifts and a beautifully designed package that makes entertaining effortless.
A themed playlist sets the mood, while optional kids’ meals ensure the whole family can take part. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, colleagues or friends, it’s a memorable evening without leaving home.
SNOWBALL – A COOL WINTER’S EVE
Our signature fundraising gala returns in February 2026, bringing together more than 400 guests
GIVE
Your corporate gift can do more than provide a snowsuit — it can transform a child’s winter. Contributions finance the purchase of highquality snowsuits for families in need.
Whether through direct donations, employee giving programs, fundraising initiatives or event sponsorships, your impact will be immediate and meaningful.
Matching gift pledges are especially powerful, inspiring others to give. As a partner, your organization will receive meaningful brand exposure, public gratitude and the knowledge that you are changing lives right here in Ottawa.
for an all-inclusive, multi-chef cocktail party experience. Featuring exquisite cuisine, elegant décor, live entertainment, a beauty bar, and live and silent auctions, SnowBall is one of Ottawa’s most anticipated winter events — and it sells out every year.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteering with The Snowsuit Fund is rewarding and impactful. Corporate and community teams are invited to spend a half-day at our depot, helping to sort and distribute snowsuits, reduce operational costs and experience firsthand the difference their time makes.
Beyond the warehouse, volunteers are welcome to support the planning, production and promotion of our seasonal fundraising events. It’s a chance to connect with the community, build team spirit and be part of something truly heartwarming.
DIEFENBUNKER:
CANADA'S COLD WAR MUSEUM
3929 Carp Rd. Ottawa, Ont. K0A 1L0
diefenbunker.ca reservations@diefenbunker.ca
Year founded: 1998
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $1,960,867
X: @diefenbunker
Facebook: @diefenbunker
Instagram: @diefenbunker
Monique Goffinet
Executive Director
Heather Paszkowski Chair, Board of Directors
BOARD MEMBERS
Tim Redpath
Vice-Chair
Kyle Morrow Secretary
Joe Brown Treasurer
Sean Casey Director
Colleen Kelley Director
Susan McLeod Director
Kerry Mould Director
Linda Nixon Director
Ron Roedig Director
Roy van den Berg Director
Sandra Waechter Director
Mark Watson Director
FUNDING SOURCES
MUSEUM
What we do
The Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum is Ottawa’s immersive history destination. Built as a four-storey underground facility, it once served as the country’s central communications headquarters during the Cold War, ready at any moment in case of a nuclear attack.
Today, it is a one-of-a-kind museum, a national historic site and an independent charitable organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting Canada’s Cold War history. Each year, the museum welcomes more than 80,000 visitors from around the world to experience awardwinning exhibitions, tours, programs, events and escape rooms.
How you can help
DONATE
The Diefenbunker is Canada’s most significant surviving Cold War artifact and a powerful reminder of a world on the brink of nuclear war. It tells the story of Canada’s resourcefulness, preparedness and extraordinary efforts to safeguard our way of life. Your gift supports the preservation of this national historic site and its stories, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations. Donations also help fund our unique educational programs, giving youth the opportunity to learn from and reflect on a pivotal period in world history.
SPONSOR AN EVENT
array of public programs and events to new and diverse audiences.
BECOME A MEMBER
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
The Diefenbunker values its community connections and welcomes meaningful collaborations. Sponsorship of our annual special events gives organizations and businesses an opportunity to be at the forefront of engaging, educational initiatives. Sponsorship support enables the museum to continue offering its wide
Events + fundraising
ANNUAL FUNDRAISING EVENT
Our signature Whisky Tasting Fundraiser, held every November, invites guests to savour unique flavours and a slice of history 75 feet underground. The evening features whisky and food pairings, local fare, a silent auction and a new theme each year. In 2024, supporters contributed more than $15,000 toward the preservation of our national historic site. We hope you can join us in 2025.
GIVINGTUESDAY CAMPAIGN
The Diefenbunker also takes part in GivingTuesday, a global generosity movement. Thanks to donors who contributed more than $5,000 in 2024, we expanded delivery of our
Sign up today to experience the Diefenbunker’s underground history time and again with free admission year-round. Members enjoy discounts on events and programs, exclusive invitations and more. Membership helps preserve Cold War artifacts and stories while giving you the chance to explore them in depth.
educational programs across the National Capital Region. Educators expressed gratitude for the unforgettable learning experiences provided to their students. We look forward to continuing the campaign’s success in 2025.
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF OTTAWA
12-1645 Woodroffe Ave.
Ottawa, Ont.
K2G 1W2
bbbso.ca
info@bbbso.ca
613-247-4776
Year founded: 1970
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $1,576,894
X: BBBSO
Facebook: BBBSO
Instagram: bbbsottawa
Susan Ingram
Executive director
BOARD MEMBERS
Michelle Alfieri
Board Vice Chair
Deloitte Canada
Lindsay Ostrom
Treasurer
The Ottawa Hospital
Camila Suvaric
Secretary Pythian
Colin Anderson
OCDSB
Keith Egli
Past Chair
Former Councilor
Ian Cascagnette Pythian
Michael Qaqish
Algonquin College
Leslie Rae Board Chair
Matt Haddad Ottawa Senators Hockey Club
Phillip Shaer Invert Inc.
Michael Purcell Ministry of the Attorney General
Carrie Irvine
Cody
Yasser Ghazi RBC Financial
Kara
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
What we do
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa (BBBSO) has been helping kids in Ottawa for more than 55 years. We match young people with caring mentors who believe in them, cheer them on and provide advice and friendship. These relationships help kids build confidence, make good choices and see all the possibilities for their future.
Mentorship at BBBSO doesn’t just help kids —
How you can help
GIVE
Kids in Ottawa need support now more than ever. When you give to BBBSO, you help young people reach their dreams — and make our community stronger. Every $1 donated grows into $23 of impact as kids become adults who give back, lead and support others.
Give today and help build brighter futures.
Learn more about giving and engagement opportunities at www.bbbso.ca
VOLUNTEER
Mentorship changes lives — and it starts with you. By giving just one hour a week, you can make a huge difference in a young person’s life. BBBSO also offers fun ways for companies to get involved: helping at special events, trying flash mentoring workshops or volunteering at our store, Thrive Select Thrift. Looking to lead in a bigger way? Join our board of directors or one of our committees.
Be the spark. Share your time. Help kids shine brighter.
SHOP AND SUPPORT
Thrive Select Thrift — our boutique thrift store — has been funding BBBSO programs since 2022. Every dollar spent supports kids and mentors in Ottawa. Located at 1547 Merivale Rd. in Emerald Plaza, Thrive is full of affordable treasures — and every purchase makes a difference.
Events + fundraising
MONTHLY GIVING – SUSTAINING
MENTORSHIP IN OUR COMMUNITY
Join our Match Makers monthly giving program — it’s the easiest way to help kids all year long! By giving each month — whether it’s $5, $25, or $100 — you make sure kids in Ottawa have caring mentors to guide them, cheer them on, and help them grow. Your steady support means more kids get the help they need, and your gift goes even further because it saves on administrative costs.
it strengthens families, schools and neighbourhoods. When kids feel supported, they do better in school, feel happier and grow into adults who are ready to give back.
With programs like Bigs, MPower, Big Possibilities, Big Steps to Success, PRISM and school-based initiatives, BBBSO is building a brighter, kinder and stronger Ottawa — one match at a time.
55 years of mentorship. One strong Ottawa.
mentee
You can shop, donate or partner with us. Host a clothing drive, bring your coworkers for a volunteer day or team up to spread the love. Shop smart. Give back. Help kids thrive. To learn more, email hope.wood@ bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa, Ont.
Be a hero for kids and watch your impact grow month after month. Sign up today at www. bbbso.ca — let’s make magic happen together!
IGNITE PROGRAM – CORPORATE GIVING
Through IGNITE, your company can help kids in Ottawa shine. This program gives businesses fun and flexible ways to join in — like sponsoring events, volunteering as a team, supporting fundraisers, or giving in special ways. Big or small, every company can make a big difference by helping kids find mentors who change their lives. You can be the spark that helps kids succeed! To learn how your company can join IGNITE, please reach out to Erin Helmer, Director of Development, at erin.helmer@bbbso.ca.
Mentor and mentee learning together.
Mentor and
spending quality time together.
Together, we are opening doors to safety, healing, and hope for women and children in Ottawa. Every woman deserves freedom from violence. Every child deserves a safe place to grow.
For almost 40 years, Harmony House has been Ottawa’s only second-stage shelter, providing transitional housing, counselling, childcare, and programs that empower families to rebuild their lives free from abuse.
16 families live at Harmony House at any time
2,500 women and children have found refuge and support since our doors opened.
On average, it takes a woman seven attempts before she leaves an abusive situation for good. Harmony House is where safety and second chances begin
Ways Businesses Can Create a Lasting Impact
Corporate Giving – Become a presenting or program sponsor
Employee Engagement – Start a workplace giving or fundraising campaign
Cause-Related Marketing – Align your brand with a mission that saves lives.
Volunteer Opportunities – Engage your team in meaningful, community-building work
The future of Ottawa begins with us By investing in Harmony House, you are ensuring that women and children can rebuild their lives free from violence Together, we can end the cycle of abuse and open doors to a brighter tomorrow.
As Ottawa’s only second-stage shelter for almost 40 years, Harmony House is building futures free from violence—together with our community.
For nearly 40 years, Harmony House has provided second-stage shelter and support for women and children rebuilding their lives after experiencing violence. It is Ottawa’s only second-stage shelter, offering 16 self-contained units, a food bank, counselling, on-site childcare and wraparound programs that help families regain stability and independence.
Beyond housing, Harmony House offers lifeskills programming, children’s and youth programs, and outreach services to support survivors long after they leave. The organization believes every woman and child deserves the chance to heal, thrive and live free from violence.
As Harmony House approaches its 40th anniversary in 2026, demand continues to grow. More than 85 families remain on the waiting list for safe housing. While long-term plans include
How you can help
Donations help cover essentials such as food, household supplies, safe housing and counselling, while sustaining wraparound services that families rely on to heal. Contributions also support afterschool meals, youth programs, summer camps and life-skills workshops.
• A gift of $70 provides fresh groceries for a family for one week.
• A gift of $100 provides counselling or program support for survivors and their children.
Events + fundraising
NIGHT LIGHT WALK — OCTOBER 23, 2025
A three-kilometre evening walk in partnership with the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, raising awareness and funds for women’s shelters in Ottawa.
40TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT
On March 2, 2026, Harmony House will host the Hope & Promise Breakfast at the Infinity Convention Centre to mark a milestone 40th year and the beginning of International Women’s Month. This inspiring morning will feature a thought-provoking panel, opportunities for networking, and a chance for our community to come together in support of women and children rebuilding their lives after violence. By joining us, you’ll help strengthen the promise of safety, healing, and hope for generations to come.
YOUR IMPACT
• Since 1985, more than 2,500 women and children have lived at Harmony House.
• The food bank supports 25 families every two weeks.
• On average, it takes seven attempts for a woman to leave an abusive situation permanently.
These numbers underscore the urgency of the work. Every three days, one woman or girl is killed in Canada. According to the Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability, 118
expanding capacity, the immediate priority is sustaining essential supports such as food, afterschool programs, summer camps and counselling. These programs are costly but vital, providing stability and hope for families. Donor support ensures both immediate care and a foundation for long-term safety.
• A gift of $500 prepares and furnishes a unit to welcome a new family.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers play an important role at Harmony House. Opportunities include supporting children’s and youth programs, helping with food bank operations, assisting with fundraising and preparing units for new families. Corporate groups can also participate in team volunteer days. Training is provided to ensure each volunteer has a meaningful role connected to the mission.
women and girls were killed by violence in Canada up to Nov. 30, 2019.
By partnering with Harmony House, you join a community dedicated to breaking cycles of abuse and creating pathways to safety, healing, independence and hope.
CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION
Francesca Davila, Director of Development and Communications fundraising@HarmonyHouseWS.com
Guests gather in front of the “BrightHER Future” door during the gala. The installation served as a symbol of hope and empowerment.
The Royal LePage Shelter Foundation presents a $20,000 donation through the Night Light Walk.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe raised $15,000 for Harmony House’s Out of the Shadows, Into the Sun campaign during a marathon run.
43 Bruyère St. Ottawa, Ont.
K1N 5C8
bruyere.org/foundation foundation@bruyere.org
Year founded: 1995
X: BruyereCare
Instagram:
Kim
Joanne
What we do
Bruyère Health is Eastern Ontario’s leading health organization specializing in aging, rehabilitation, and care for those with multiple complex medical conditions. We bring together compassionate, person-centred care with world-class research to maximize quality of life for those we care for and their loved ones. Bruyère Health has a proven history of addressing gaps in our health system with compassion, innovation, and courage. Today, as an academic health sciences centre, we are training the next generation of health professionals to see—and take action on — creating a better health system for all.
We provide bilingual care across four sites: Bruyère Health Market Site
• Bruyère Health Élisabeth-Bruyère Hospital
• Bruyère Health Élisabeth-Bruyère Long -Term Care
• Bruyère Health Academic Family Medicine
- Bruyère Clinic
Bruyère Health Centretown Site
• Bruyère Health Saint-Vincent Hospital
• Bruyère Health Academic Family Medicine
– Primrose Clinic
Bruyère Health Orléans Site
• Bruyère Health Village
• Bruyère Health Saint-Louis Long-Term Care
How you can help
Each year, Bruyère Health identifies key priorities for the Foundation to support, based on the most pressing requirements, ensuring patients receive the best possible care. Your donation helps provide compassionate, innovative medical services that allow patients to rehabilitate and thrive.
Imagine the difference you can make:
• You can help a stroke survivor rebuild their future
• Help a grandparent who is given only months to live to make the most of their remaining time
• Support families in getting the best care for their loved one who have memory loss
• Bruyère Health Senior Living
• Bruyère Health Besserer Place Senior Living
• Bruyère Health The Villas Senior Living
Bruyère Health Old Ottawa East Site
• Bruyère Health Greystone Transitional Care
Bruyère Health Research Institute conducts world-class research to maximize quality of life and shape the future of health care. As part of an academic health sciences centre, our research supports evidence-based care with a focus on aging and long-term care, palliative care, rehabilitation and recovery, and social accountability.
The Bruyère Health Foundation’s volunteer board and professional staff work together to inspire community support for Bruyère Health, helping enhance care for patients and residents. Every gift you make helps Bruyère Health achieve its daily mission: to improve life for patients, residents, their loved ones, and care teams.
These are real people in our community –your neighbors, friends, and family members – who you can help with your generous gift to the Bruyère Health Foundation.
To find out more about other ways to make an impact, including legacy giving, gifts of securities, life insurance, and more, please contact our team of fundraising professionals at 613-562-6319 or foundation@bruyere.org.
Photography by Greg Allison Design by Spruce Creative
What
we do
ORKIDSTRA – SISTEMA OTTAWA
204-211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON K1R 6H5
orkidstra.ca development@orkidstra.ca
Year founded: 2007
Total revenue for last fiscal year: 1,244,780 Charitable Org. # 83246 7153 RR0001
Tina Fedeski (left) Co-Founder & Artistic Managing Director
Carrie Lauzon (right) Executive Managing Director
BOARD MEMBERS
Chayanika Abeysekera Lutes Chair
Riaz Mohammed Vice-Chair
Marie-Josée Lambert Treasurer
Christopher Van Barr Secretary
Amar Marouf Director
Antoine L. Collins Director
TOP
CHARITIES:
Chayanika Abeysekera Lutes Chair of the Board
Cathy Doolan Director
Douglas Lai Director
Jeff Heynen Director
Salim Charabati Director
Sean McGee Director
Shirley Westeneide OC Director
SOURCES
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa
OrKidstra is a charitable program that uses music to help children develop vital life skills such as responsibility, teamwork and empathy. Founded in 2007 with 27 participants, it now serves more than 800 children and youth aged five to 18 in Ottawa through community-based programs. Students come from more than 62 cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and many are new Canadians.
By providing free instruments, lessons and a safe, inclusive environment, OrKidstra gives children who face barriers the chance to learn and perform music together. In the hands of a child, a clarinet or violin becomes a tool for growth, confidence and opportunity.
How you can help
DONATE
Demand for programming has grown sharply, with the waitlist rising by 250 per cent last year. Donations support free access to OrKidstra’s after-school programs.
SPONSOR
Corporate partners can sponsor concerts. All donors are invited to see firsthand how music shapes children’s lives.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers help at concerts and events, mentor students, organize fundraisers and share professional skills. All volunteers are screened to ensure a safe environment.
Programs and initiatives
In 2024, OrKidstra opened its third after-school hub in Heron Gate, one of Ottawa’s highest-needs neighbourhoods. Families in these communities face systemic barriers including poverty, food insecurity, settlement challenges and a lack of accessible after-school programming.
OrKidstra’s free programs offer a safe space, healthy food and music education that research
shows support child development. Students gain confidence and learn skills such as teamwork and problem-solving by making music together.
Following a successful first season, OrKidstra will expand the Heron Gate Hub in 2025–26 to increase enrolment and add beginner instrumental instruction. Expansion is also planned in other high-needs neighbourhoods in Ottawa.
Events
ORKIDSTRA HOLIDAY CONCERT
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, at 6:30 PM
Location: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 355 Cooper St.
Admission: Free; donations welcome
AWARDS AND IMPACT
OrKidstra was named Music Educator of the Year at the sixth annual Capital Music Awards in 2025.
Highlights from our Impact Report:
• 100 per cent of OrKidstra graduates have completed high school and pursued postsecondary education.
• 98 per cent of parents say their child is doing better in school.
• 96 per cent of students report improved life skills, including teamwork, communication and problem-solving.
“Learning a musical instrument is such an opportunity in life. The more kids that get to experience it can help the world grow and be a better place.”
Contact for more information
Rebecca Russell
Director of Development & Communications rebeccarussell@orkidstra.ca
OrKidstra’s free concerts are an upbeat joy for all ages. (Photo: Greg Allison)
All OrKidstra program graduates have completed high school and pursued post-secondary education. (Photo: Greg Allison)
OTTAWA CHAMBERFEST
201-4 Florence St. Ottawa, Ont.
K2P 0W7
www.chamberfest.com info@chamberfest.com
Year founded: 1994
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $1,430,885
Instagram: /chamberfest
Facebook: /ottawachamberfest
LinkedIn: /ottawa-chamberfest
Carissa Klopoushak
Artistic Director
Cate Proctor
Executive Director
Todd Saulnier Chair of the Board
What we do
Executive director Cate Proctor brings fresh eyes and innovative partnership-building, while artistic director Carissa Klopoushak shapes an inspiring creative vision. Together, they create exciting new ways for donors to champion the arts and experience the profound joy and impact their support makes possible.
PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES
We are deepening our commitment to the next generation of chamber musicians by expanding
How you can help
The arts ecosystem has shifted dramatically over the last five years — and so have the challenges of maintaining the same level of programming. Significant shifts in audience participation, public funding and soaring costs due to inflation necessitates securing new funding sources to maintain current levels of excellence.
FUNDING PRIORITIES
Our primary focus is on raising funds that directly support artistic and community program costs, which have increased sharply in the short term. From artistic fees across all programs, to venue sponsors, to new partnerships supporting community impacts—we work with our donors to generate mutually-beneficial outcomes.
Events + fundraising
BOARD MEMBERS
Susan Scotti Vice-Chair
Jay Gupta Secretary
Alan Halpren Treasurer
Patricia Blute Director
Sylvie Bragard Director
XinLin (Ling) Hu Director
We present various fundraising events throughout the year, often consisting of sold-out concerts. In 2025, we presented Angela Hewitt at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, and Cheng2 Duo (Bryan Cheng and Silvie Cheng) at the Embassy of France.
We are open to developing new partnerships and events that celebrate chamber music and support our programs.
SUMMER FESTIVAL
mentorship opportunities and launching a new artist-in-residence program. This initiative will provide young and emerging chamber music professionals with workshops, adaptive concert training, programming mentorship and abundant performance opportunities — preparing them for successful, impactful careers.
We are also growing our student and community subsidized pricing program to ensure broad access to live chamber music. These bold investments in the future of chamber music are made possible through community support, and we actively seek funding partners to help us meet growing demands.
VOLUNTEER
Our robust corps of 265 active and dedicated volunteers have served alongside us since our inception 32 years ago, joined by new recruits in 2025. Our volunteers are ambassadors who greet patrons at every event with enthusiasm and professionalism, while others work behind the scenes with technicians and artists to ensure impeccable production value at every concert. We are nothing without our volunteers.
We welcome volunteer interest to support any number of events, behind-the-scenes roles, poster distribution, ad-hoc committees and driving. What’s your interest? We can discuss options.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND EDUCATION PROGRAM
We proudly present more than 75 CEE events in the community each year. We cultivate multiple educational, care-conscious and engagement pathways that integrate music through schools, care facilities and public spaces throughout Ottawa. Events are free of charge or run on a pay-what-you-can donation model.
CONCERT SERIES
Janet Akins Director
Sherri Meyerhoffer Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
32%
2%
3%
GEOGRAPHIC
10%
REGION OF FOCUS
We draw artists from an international reach, and present our programming in the National Capital Region — including Ottawa, Gatineau, Almonte and Wakefield.
Chamberfest 2025 presented more than 50 concerts between July 18 and 27 in 12 locations across the National Capital Region — including the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, National Arts Centre, Ottawa City Hall, Rideau Hall and community spaces. We welcome some of the world’s most celebrated international artists, presenting the very finest in classical chamber music.
Our annual Concert Series brings world-class chamber music to Ottawa from fall to spring. This season features Gala Noël, a dazzling showcase with laureates of the Canada Council’s Musical Instrument Bank – and more unforgettable concerts to come!
Contact for more information: Cate Proctor, Executive Director; cproctor@chamberfest.com
Young performers celebrating the finale of the 2024 Rising Stars showcase.
Ottawa,
We believe in this city. And we believe in its people.
That’s why we’ve joined The Ottawa Hospital Foundation’s Campaign to Create Tomorrow the most ambitious campaign in our city’s history. A $500-million push to build the most technologically advanced, patient-centred, research-driven healthcare facility our region has ever seen.
We’re proud to be part of this. But we can’t do it alone.
Great healthcare is a cornerstone of every truly great city. Not just to treat illness or emergencies but to power innovation, attract world-leading talent, fuel economic growth, and strengthen the very fabric of our community.
This is Ottawa’s moment to lead.
With your support, we will build a new, world-class hospital. We’ll expand research that changes lives. We’ll create space for the next generation of care. And we’ll do it right here. At home. In Ottawa.
Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng Head
This is more than a building. It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the future of healthcare. Together.
We’ve stepped up and we know you will, too. Because in Ottawa, giving back is part of who we are.
Join us. Invest in the future of our city. Create a better tomorrow.
Sincerely,
THE OTTAWA HOSPITAL FOUNDATION
737 Parkdale Ave., 1st Floor
Ottawa, Ont.
K1Y 1J8
CreatingTomorrow.ca
613-761-4295
Year founded: 1999
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $49 million
Facebook: OttawaHospital
Instagram: ottawahospital
Linkedln: TheOttawaHospitalFoundation
Tim Kluke
President and CEO
BOARD MEMBERS
Atul Aggarwal
Denise Carruthers
Brian Cook
Kevin Ford
Tom Froggatt
Sarah Grand
Taryn Gunnlaugson
Russell Jones
Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng
Janet McKeage Chair
What we do
The Ottawa Hospital Foundation is the fundraising arm of The Ottawa Hospital, one of Canada’s largest and most important academic health centres.
Our donors fuel world-class patient care, cuttingedge research, and the training of the next generation of healthcare providers — funding lifesaving equipment, groundbreaking clinical trials, and innovations that are changing outcomes for patients here in Ottawa and around the world.
Our historic $500-million Campaign to Create Tomorrow is helping build a new, state-of-the-art healthcare facility and academic research centre at Dow’s Lake and will transform how care is delivered in our region.
We are one of Canada’s most efficient and trusted hospital foundations. We’ve earned High Performer status from the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy for 12 consecutive years and been named a top hospital foundation by MoneySense.
CAMPAIGN TO CREATE TOMORROW
The Campaign to Create Tomorrow is a $500 million, once-in-a-generation effort to help transform healthcare.
Mychelle Mollot
Ryma Nasrallah
Mark Noonan Vice-Chair
Nadir Patel
Richard Roth
Tim Saunders
Jennifer Stewart
Julie Taggart
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
INDIVIDUAL: 73%
CORPORATE: 18%
OTHER CHARITIES: 6%
ORGANIZATIONS: 3%
GEOGRAPHIC REGIONS OF FOCUS
Eastern Ontario, Western Quebec, Nunavut
THE VISION
... the most ambitious transformation in The Ottawa Hospital’s history — one that will reshape the future of healthcare. It will secure our place as the country’s largest teaching and research hospital, and as the central hub of an integrated health system that is rewriting the healthcare playbook
THE CATALYST
... an unprecedented, state-of-the-art healthcare and research campus. But this campaign is about so much more than a building — it’s about reimagining what’s possible. Your support fuels groundbreaking research, next-level care, and the technology and infrastructure that change lives.
THE IMPACT
... an integrated healthcare system that extends care beyond hospital walls across our community, in ways that work better for everyone and for generations to come. It will build on our world-leading trauma and cancer programs and push the boundaries of neuroscience, regenerative medicine, and mental health care.
Join us!
How You Can Help
Our goal is to provide exceptional care to every patient who walks through our doors. Our support provides vital funding for research, equipment, and state-of-the-art facilities — not all of which is covered by the province.
JOIN US!
Your support will reshape the future of healthcare in our region for you and your family for generations to come.
CREATE A FUNDRAISER
With our user-friendly online tool, you can create a fundraiser in a matter of minutes! From birthday celebrations to T-shirt sales, from golf tournaments to galas, and even workplace giving — event creation has never been easier. Our online tool gives you the flexibility to customize your event with just a few clicks. CreatingTomorrow.ca
GIVE MONTHLY
Monthly donations provide us with the stable, predictable funding we need to face the unpredictable. It’s a critical source of revenue that our hospital team relies on.
HONOUR A HOSPITAL STAFF MEMBER
From nurses to security guards, doctors to cafeteria workers — hospital staff are there to stand beside us during some of the most challenging times of our lives. A Gratitude Award is a great way to show your support for a healthcare worker while helping fund patient care and research.
LEAVE
A LEGACY
A gift in your will can be the most powerful and meaningful gift of all. We can help ensure your gift makes the greatest impact for future generations.
Total fundraising revenue for last fiscal year: $5.1M
Instagram: AlgonquinCollege
LinkedIn: AlgonquinCollege
Facebook: AlgonquinCollege
X: AlgonquinColleg
Claude Brulé
President and CEO
Mark Savenkoff Vice President, Advancement and Strategy
BOARD MEMBERS
Bharat Rudra
Claude Brulé
Gabrielle Berard
Heather Simpson
Julia Fortey
John James
Kevin Ishimwe
Mehdi Zahed
Michele Bellows
Richard Goodyear
Rodney Wilson
Tania Dube
Tanya Buckley
Tony Pollard
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
NON-PROFIT
DONATIONS: 12%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Eastern Ontario
Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology is the largest polytechnic institute in Eastern Ontario and one of Canada’s leading applied-education institutions. Offering more than 250 programs, the college combines hands-on training, digital innovation and experiential learning to prepare students for successful careers and lifelong learning.
Founded as a public-sector polytechnic, Algonquin College is rooted in the nation’s capital, uniquely positioned to connect with government, business and community partners. The college equips graduates with practical skills and opportunities that directly respond to workforce needs in Ottawa, across Ontario and globally. With more than 45,000 learners and an alumni network of over 230,000 stretching worldwide, Algonquin College plays a central role in driving prosperity and impact in the nation’s capital and beyond.
How you can help
The generosity of individuals, companies, foundations and community organizations sustains Algonquin College’s ability to provide students with applied education that is accessible, relevant and transformative. Philanthropic support creates opportunities for learners, strengthens academic programs, enhances research capacity and builds the facilities and technology that future talent will depend on.
As a polytechnic institution, the college is positioned to address regional challenges and emerging workforce needs across multiple sectors, often with national and international impact. Your contributions help remove barriers, enrich learning experiences and empower the next generation of leaders, innovators and skilled professionals.
ONE-TIME GIFTS AND MONTHLY DONATIONS
Support can be made through algonquincollege. com/donate, either as a one-time contribution or recurring monthly gifts of any amount. Donors may choose to support college-wide priorities, provide financial aid, establish a memorial fund or contribute to dozens of other designated funds, each aligned to a specific area of need.
GIFTS IN KIND
Algonquin College welcomes gifts in kind, such as equipment, software, tools, technology and vehicles. These resources directly enhance the student learning environment and ensure access to the same tools graduates will use in their careers.
SPONSORSHIP
Sponsorship of college events and initiatives provides visibility for companies and organizations while supporting experiential learning opportunities. As a recognized leader in applied education and named one of Canada’s Best Employers for 2025 by Forbes, Algonquin College provides sponsors with opportunities to connect with students, faculty and the community.
Algonquin College continues to build on its vision of being the premier destination for polytechnic leadership, ensuring that students, employers and communities benefit from the knowledge, creativity and innovation that thrive on its campuses.
PLANNED GIVING
Legacy gifts included in wills or estate plans ensure that future generations of students can benefit from programs, financial aid and services. Planned giving allows donors to align their personal legacy with educational opportunity and community prosperity.
GIFTS OF SECURITIES
Donations of securities offer potential tax advantages and provide critical resources to advance student-focused initiatives, research and programming.
CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS
Businesses and organizations can partner with Algonquin College to invest in talent development, support applied research projects and advance corporate social responsibility. These partnerships provide measurable value for industry while expanding opportunities for students and communities. Visit algonquincollege.com/advancement to explore opportunities and connect with our team.
Contact for more information: advancement@algonquincollege.com
A powerline technician student practices in the training program at Algonquin College.
Hazel Smart-Patterson, alumna and donor, (front row, second from left) with members of the Algonquin College community at the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence
THE UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA
550 Cumberland Ottawa, Ont. K1N 6N5
uOttawa.ca give@uottawa.ca
Year founded: 1848
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $52,045,000 Facebook: /uottawa
LinkedIn: /school/uottawa/ Instagram: /uottawa
Marie-Eve Sylvestre President and Vice-Chancellor
Julien Sicard Vice-President, Advancement
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Jacques Beauvais Provost and Vice-President Academic Affairs
Julie St-Pierre Vice-President, Research and Innovation
Jennifer Doyle Vice-President, Finance and Administration
Annick Bergeron Secretary-General
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
What we do
The University of Ottawa is the world’s largest bilingual (FrenchEnglish) university. Located in a G7 capital at the crossroads of Indigenous, French and English cultures, the university welcomes an international community of students and researchers.
With more than 49,000 students, the university promotes academic excellence, inclusivity and bilingualism in an environment that helps students succeed and connect to a network of more than 300,000 graduates.
Ranked among Canada's top five medical doctoral universities by Maclean's, the University of Ottawa conducts more than $500 million in research annually across diverse fields. Research teams advance sustainable solutions to
How you can help
Support from donors and partners strengthens the university’s ability to provide exceptional education, research and outreach. Contributions can be directed to:
• Scholarships and bursaries that recognize achievement and ensure access regardless of financial background.
• Research initiatives addressing climate change, health, social justice and other urgent issues.
• Facilities and technology that enhance learning environments.
• Community outreach programs that connect university expertise with local and global needs.
Every gift, from annual contributions to major endowments, supports the university’s mission of excellence, discovery and positive change.
pressing challenges, influence public policy and develop innovations that improve lives in Canada and around the world. Areas of leadership include artificial intelligence, health, social justice, quantum physics and climate solutions.
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa
Giving Day — On March 31, 2026, the uOttawa community will unite to support student success. Donors may choose to fund athletics, provide scholarships and bursaries, or contribute to the uOttawa Fund for campus priorities.
Monthly giving — Monthly donors provide stable support that sustains programs and services for students.
Legacy giving — Members of the Heritage Circle leave planned gifts that benefit future students and researchers.
Endowments — Endowed funds ensure lasting support for education and research.
Partnerships — Strategic collaborations with the University of Ottawa connect business value with meaningful social impact.
The University of Ottawa campus, located in the city’s core near Parliament Hill and other national institutions.
The Hearts of Compassion Fund (HCF) directly supports the Diocese’s five Community Ministries, which provide safety and essential services such as food programs, housing, counselling, refugee sponsorship, and community outreach for people living in vulnerable or precarious circumstances.
Total Revenue for last fiscal year: *$14,583,966 *ADO Operations Fund
Look for OttawaAnglican on: Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
Monica Patten Chair, Community Ministries Comittee (CMC)
Rev Canon Dr Peter John Hobbs Director General of Community Ministries CMC BOARD MEMBERS
Canon Monica Patten Chair
The Reverend Canon Catherine Ascah
The Venerable Brian Kauk
The Reverend Michael Garner
Maria Crosby Chair, Centre 105
Vacant Chair, Belong Ottawa
Lynne Burrit Chair, Ottawa Pastoral Counselling Centre
Mark Holzman Chair, Cornerstone Housing for Women
Peggy Lister Chair, Refugee Ministry Office
Shauna Young Executive Director, Belong Ottawa
Taylor Seguin Executive Director, Centre 105
Anne Marie Hopkins Executive Director, Cornerstone Housing for Women
Heather Fawcett Executive Director, Ottawa Pastoral Counselling Centre
Canon Henry Schultz Chancellor, Anglican Diocese of Ottawa
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
13%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS Ottawa and Eastern Ontario
What we do
The Anglican Diocese of Ottawa (ADO) is a diverse and compassionate community serving eastern Ontario and western Quebec. Guided by faith and a deep commitment to caring for others, we work to create communities of compassion, justice, and hope. Our mission reaches far beyond church walls, meeting people where they are and responding to some of the most urgent challenges in our region — poverty, homelessness, mental illness, trauma, addiction, and displacement.
Through our Community Ministries, we provide essential, life-changing services. These include drop-in day programs offering meals, showers, laundry facilities, and safe spaces; a network of shelters and supportive housing for women and gender-diverse individuals; refugee sponsorship programs welcoming families fleeing violence; and professional counselling to support healing and well-being. Our commitment is to welcome and care for every person with dignity, respect, and compassion—no matter their background, belief,
or circumstance. The Hearts of Compassion Fund (HCF) makes this vital work possible. Your gift provides food, clothing, access to health care, safe housing, and compassionate, professional support. By donating today, you help create lasting change across the National Capital Region, Cornwall and beyond, nurturing communities where hope and belonging can flourish. Together, we can meet these urgent needs and build communities of care where everyone has the chance to heal, grow, and thrive. Every gift creates hope. Together, we can transform lives.
Our community ministries
CORNERSTONE HOUSING FOR WOMEN
In 1983, Cornerstone Housing for Women began with three cots in the basement of All Saints Church in Sandy Hill. It was the first women-only shelter in Ottawa. Now Cornerstone operates five locations providing affordable, supportive housing to women who have experienced homelessness. Cornerstone operates Ottawa's largest women-only shelter.
BELONG OTTAWA
Belong Ottawa provides low-barrier, accessible social services for people living on low income - with a particular focus on those experiencing homelessness. We help meet the basic needs of our community (e.g. food, laundry, showers) while also providing a point of social connection and referrals to other community supports. Our services operate across three sites: Centre 454, St Luke's Table, and The Well (services to women, children and diversegender people).
How you can help
Give today and make a difference. Every day, more people in our communities face hunger, homelessness, violence, and mental health challenges. Your donation to the Hearts of Compassion Fund (HCF) provides a lifeline through our five Community Ministries, offering
OTTAWA PASTORAL COUNSELLING CENTRE
The Ottawa Pastoral Counselling Centre (The OPC) provides professional counselling for individuals and families facing grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, and other life challenges. The counsellors respect each person’s spirituality, whether religious, spiritual, agnostic, or atheist, fostering healing with compassion and dignity. With financial assistance available at The OPC, more people can access care in a safe, supportive environment.
CENTRE 105
Established in 2016, Centre 105 is a social service agency in Cornwall serving the most vulnerable in our community. We provide meals, laundry, showers, and a safe, welcoming space to connect with others. Partnering with local groups, we offer referrals to essential services and host a Friday Recovery Care Mobile Clinic with an addictions counsellor and nurse to support healing and recovery.
REFUGEE MINISTRY OFFICE
The Refugee Ministry Office (RMO) has a long history of helping refugees from around the serve the world and of all faiths who come to Canada. RMO works closely with community groups and family sponsors. It operates as a Sponsorship Agreement Holder with Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada, participating in Canada's private refugee sponsorship program, helping people rebuild their lives.
safe shelter, nourishing meals, counselling, refugee sponsorship, and outreach for those in deeply vulnerable situations.
Your gift delivers not only essential services like a warm meal or safe place to sleep but also dignity, hope, and belonging. Ways to give: CanadaHelps, credit card, cheque, or securities. Donate today and help transform lives: ottawa. anglican.ca/donate.
Family stays.
Family stays in every hard conversation, every impossible decision.
They don’t glance at the time, they loose track of it. They sleep in chairs, in cars, in hallways. They miss work. They miss paycheques. They miss meals.
Ronald McDonald House,
At Ronald McDonald House, we give families more than just a room near the hospital. We give them something that feels like normal, even when nothing else is. Because when a child is in the hospital, family stays. And we stay with them.
www.ronaldmcdonaldhouseottawa.ca
Year founded: 1983
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $1,914,182
X: ronaldmcdonaldhouseottawa
Facebook: Ronald McDonald House Ottawa
Instagram: ronaldmcdonaldhouseottawa
Christine
Colin
Cindy
Michèle
Tim
Karen Macauley Perry McKenna
Leah Swanstrom
Andrew Vey
Philip von Finckenstein
What we do
When families live too far from the hospital to commute, Ronald McDonald House Ottawa is here to provide a warm, comfortable “home away from home,” just steps from CHEO. By removing the financial burden of hotel stays— often needed for weeks, months, and in some cases years—we help families focus on what matters most: their child.
Our recent building expansion added 22 new bedroom suites to our existing 14, giving us a total of 36 private suites. This will allow us to support all families from across Eastern Ontario, Quebec, and Nunavut. Along with a comfortable place to stay, families can enjoy a hot cup of coffee, several free meals through our volunteer-led Home for Dinner program, as well as convenient grab-and-go snacks for their trips
to and from the hospital.
The new expansion now offers a second kitchen for all the families, multiple laundry rooms, a fitness centre, a teen games room, several quiet spaces, multiple TV rooms, a spacious children’s playroom, and family-focused programming designed to make their stay feel like home.
Inside the hospital, we offer 2 Ronald McDonald House Family Rooms, providing laundry facilities, free coffee and snacks, comfortable seating, a shower, and even sleep rooms located right beside the Intensive Care Unit. These welcoming spaces are open to all families in the hospital, ensuring we can support both our local community and those who have traveled from farther away.
How you can help
Community donations are what keeps Ronald McDonald House Ottawa running. Every donation helps provide families with a comfortable place to stay and the peace of mind to focus on their child’s care. While staying with us, families avoid the high cost of accommodations, parking and many meals. We saved families more than $2.1 million in out-of-pocket expenses in 2024 alone.
We believe no family should have to choose between being there for their child and having a place to stay.
A donation to Ronald McDonald House gives them more than just a room. It gives families rest. Warmth. A hot meal. It gives them something that feels like normal, even when nothing else is.
www.ronaldmcdonaldhouseottawa.ca
Rendering of the new Ronald McDonald House Ottawa, newly completed on the CHEO campus.
Brody and his dad, BJ, spending time together in between leukemia treatments. The Babin family spent over 150 nights at Ronald McDonald House Ottawa, from North Bay Ontario.
LANARK COUNTY INTERVAL HOUSE AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
PO Box 107
Carleton Place, Ont. K7C 3P3
www.lcih.org
info@lcih.com
Year founded: 1979
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $ 2,442,874
Facebook: /LanarkCountyIntervalHouse
Instagram: /lanarkcountyintervalhouse/
Erin Lee
Executive Director
Linsey Sherman-Zekulin Board Chair
BOARD MEMBERS
Linsey
Sherman-Zekulin
Co-Chair
Christine Walterhouse Co-Chair
Cara Gibbons
Secretary Treasurer
Candace Roberts
Past Chair
Kristine von Bloedau Director Kelly Blair Director
Karen Milligan Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS: 12% CORPORATE DONATIONS: 8% GOVERNMENT FUNDING: 64%
ENDOWMENTS: 1%
OTHER CHARITIES: 5%
OTHER SOURCES: 10%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Lanark County
What we do
Lanark County Interval House and Community Services (LCIHCS) provides emergency shelter and support for women and children fleeing domestic violence. As the only emergency shelter in Lanark County, LCIHCS offers secure and confidential housing, crisis intervention and emotional support.
Beyond immediate safety, the organization provides counselling, advocacy and education to help clients rebuild their lives. LCIHCS
How you can help
DONATE
LCIHCS raises funds to sustain and expand services for women and children experiencing gender-based violence. Donations support the emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis line, secondstage and transitional housing, and specialized outreach programs across Lanark County. Funds also advance prevention initiatives such as public education and youth engagement.
Supporters give because they recognize that their contributions provide life-saving resources while also fostering long-term safety and stability. Every donation strengthens
Events + fundraising
VIOLET FEMMES GIRLS NIGHT OUT GALA (November, Almonte)
This annual fundraising gala brings the community together to raise funds for LCIHCS programs. Guests enjoy dinner, entertainment and auctions, while raising awareness about domestic and gender-based violence.
TAKE BACK THE NIGHT (September, Carleton Place)
This community event includes a march and rally to raise awareness about sexual and domestic violence. It provides a platform for survivors, engages the public in education on consent and healthy relationships, and strengthens community solidarity.
HOLIDAY GIVING CAMPAIGN AND MAILOUT (November–December, county-wide)
A seasonal fundraising drive inviting individuals and businesses to contribute during the holidays, providing safety and support to women and children.
GOLF FORE CHANGE (May, Almonte)
An annual golf tournament that brings community members and businesses together to raise funds for emergency shelter, housing and prevention programs.
Contact for more information: Emma Kinsman emma.kinsman@lcih.com 613-257-3469 ext. 163
also engages in community outreach, public education and programs aimed at preventing gender-based violence.
Each year, the organization supports more than 500 women and children, offering emergency shelter, long-term housing solutions and programs that address the root causes of gender-based violence.
LCIHCS operates a 24/7 confidential crisis line at 1-800-267-7946, providing immediate support and resources. Anyone experiencing domestic violence is encouraged to call for information, safety planning or assistance.
LCIHCS’s capacity to meet urgent needs and build a violence-free community.
VOLUNTEER
LCIHCS offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to support women and children affected by domestic violence. Volunteers may assist in the shelter, children’s programs, community events, administrative tasks or facility maintenance, and may contribute special skills such as cooking, arts or tutoring.
The As Good As New store also relies on volunteers for customer service, organizing donations and operating the cash desk. To get involved, complete an application or contact volunteer@lcih.com.
Community members take part in the Golf Fore Change tournament, held each summer to raise funds for services supporting women and
Participants march in Lanark County as part of Take Back the Night, an annual event held each September to raise awareness about sexual violence and call for safer communities.
Guests attend the Violet Femmes Gala, an annual fundraising event that supports programs for women and children fleeing abuse.
children in Lanark County.
LIONHEARTS INC.
119 Iber Rd., Unit 1
Ottawa, Ont. K2S 1E7
lionhearts.ca ottawa@lionhearts.ca
Year founded: 2014
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $4,703,541
Charitable Registration Number: 794309328RR0001
Facebook & Instagram: /lionhearts.yow
What we do
With the support of dedicated partners and volunteers, we works to reduce hunger and homelessness, helping restore dignity and hope in the communities we serve.
Since our founding in 2014, Lionhearts has focused on practical acts of care that restore human dignity — from rescuing food and household goods, to operating warming shelters and transitional housing, to retraining people as they rebuild their lives. In Ottawa, we collect surplus bread, produce and other goods daily and share them with frontline agencies at no cost.
OUR PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES
We design programs that strengthen and support local organizations already serving people in
BOARD MEMBERS
Corrie Abrams Board Chair
Mike Welch
Treasurer
Dawn Blackmore
Secretary
Darren McDermitt
Director
Elisabeth Meyer
Director
need across Eastern Ontario. By partnering with businesses, we help safely and efficiently redirect surplus food to community agencies working on the front lines. Fundraising provides the tools required to make this happen, including vehicles, warehouse space and staff.
In 2026, we plan to launch our Community Nutrition program in Ottawa. Already successful in Kingston, this social enterprise sees our kitchen team prepare affordable meals for frontline agencies that want to provide food to clients but are unable to meet the demand.
Bringing this program to Ottawa will require hiring a chef and purchasing key kitchen equipment for our warehouse facility. We are seeking to raise $100,000 to support the launch.
How you can help
VOLUNTEER
GIVE
Ottawa, Kingston and London, Ontario TOP FUNDING SOURCES
Volunteers are at the heart of our work and play a vital role in our daily operations. Every day, teams are sorting bread donations, picking up and redistributing food and goods, and supporting us in countless other ways. If you’d like to get involved, contact us at ottawa@lionhearts.ca.
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
We also host volunteer recognition events twice a year to celebrate our team’s contributions. In addition, members of the public are welcome to attend our semi-annual open house events to learn more about what we do and see our space.
We are grateful for the support of our monthly and occasional donors who make our work possible. We're also thankful for our supplier partners who work with us to ensure their food and household goods are safely and rapidly redistributed. We currently host one annual fundraiser in February — Coldest Night of the Year, a national campaign supporting charities like ours. Save the date: February 28, 2026!
Contact for more information: Phil Gaudreau phil.gaudreau@lionhearts.ca
Travis Blackmore Founder and CEO
Corrie Abrams Board Chair
Volunteers sort donations at Lionhearts’ Stittsville warehouse. The goods are distributed to dozens of local agencies free of charge.
Lionhearts volunteers collect and redistribute unsold bread from seven Ottawa-area COBS Bread franchises every day.
Lionhearts Inc. Ottawa organized Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walks in Stittsville and Orléans in 2025. The 2026 walk will take place Feb. 28, 2026
FONDATION NAVALIS FOUNDATION
c/o Staples Studio Co-working 403 Bank St. Unit 3 Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y6
navalis.ca info@navalis.ca
Year founded: 1942
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $550,000 Facebook: facebook.com/rcnbf
Gay Hamilton Executive Director
Lauren Copeland Board Chair
What we do
The Navalis Foundation (formerly the Royal Canadian Naval Benevolent Fund) has supported Canada’s naval family for more than 80 years. While our name has changed, our mission has not. We continue to stand behind those who serve at sea — and the families who serve alongside them.
OUR PROGRAMS AND FUNDING PRIORITIES
• Individual assistance — financial relief for those facing hardship
• Community support grants — up to $25,000 for projects that strengthen the naval community
• Grants over $25,000 — funding for commemorative and building projects
• Leadership recognition — the Navalis Leadership Award celebrates serving with excellence
EXAMPLES OF POSITIVE IMPACT
Helping veterans transition to stability
Every veteran deserves a safe place to call home — a space where dignity, belonging and community are restored. That belief inspired our partnership with the Homes for Heroes Foundation (H4HF), whose Veterans’ Villages across Canada are changing lives and strengthening communities.
Through this partnership, Navalis proudly sponsored The Four Midshipmen’s House — a dedicated home within the Kingston Veterans’ Village, completed in 2023–24.
Navalis aspires to ensure a navy presence in every Veterans’ Village. Our journey continues as we prepare to support the next H4HF Village, building hope, connection and a future.
Honouring service. Inspiring generations. We are committed to preserving the stories, sacrifices and spirit of those who served our country at sea.
Navalis was proud to support the creation of Canada’s national Battle of the Atlantic Monument, unveiled in London, ON, in 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the longest and most pivotal battle of the Second World War.
The memorial honours the courage and sacrifice of more than 2,000 members of the Royal Canadian Navy, 750 airmen of Eastern Command and 1,600 members of the Merchant Navy who served — and many who were lost — protecting vital North Atlantic supply lines.
Navalis funded the naming panels that line the monument, ensuring each life and contribution is recognized and remembered. These names are not just etched in stone — they are engraved in our national memory, fostering pride in the Royal Canadian Navy, honouring the pursuit of global peace and security, and helping Canadians understand the true meaning of service.
BOARD MEMBERS
Chantal Beauvais Director
Cal Bricker Director
Jill Carleton Director
Heng Chhay Chao Director
Anne Healey Director
Louise Mercier Director
Linas Pilypaitis Director
Jeff Topping Director
Steven Waddell Director
TOP FUNDING SOURCES
How you can help
DONATE
Your donation helps Navalis respond quickly and with dignity when sailors, veterans or their families are in crisis. Our flexible support model provides targeted grants, emergency aid and program funding that deliver real results. Every gift makes a difference. Whether given once or monthly, your support helps ensure Canada’s naval family is never alone.
VOLUNTEER
We are building a community of volunteers and supporters who care deeply about service, tradition and impact. Whether you have military connections or simply a passion for helping others, there is a place for you at Navalis.
Events + fundraising
Navalis participates in events across Canada that honour naval service and raise awareness for the programs we fund. From community gatherings to remembrance initiatives, these events connect Canadians with the stories — and needs — of the naval family.
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS National
Homes for Heroes project in Kingston, ON
Battle of the Atlantic Memorial in London, ON
What we do
DISTRESS CENTRE OF OTTAWA AND REGION
11 Rosemount Avenue
Ottawa, Ont. K1Y 4J6
https://www.dcottawa.on.ca/ info@dcottawa.on.ca
Year founded: 1969
Total revenue for last fiscal year: $2,506,349
Instagram: @distresscentreottawa
LinkedIn: Distress Centre of Ottawa & Region
Charles Laframboise Executive Director
Matt Triemstra President, Board of Directors
BOARD MEMBERS
Nicole Storms Vice President
Roxanne Anderson
Treasurer
Matthew Chan
Secretary
Directors
Catherine Bennett
Elie Labaky
Director
Brian Mangan Director
Juliet McMurren Director
Daniele Medlej Director
César Ndéma-Moussa Director
Jaye Poirier Director
SOURCES
3.5%
GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF FOCUS
Ottawa & region
The Distress Centre of Ottawa & Region (DCOR) operates 24/7 confidential crisis and distress telephone lines serving Ottawa and surrounding areas. More than 210 trained volunteers answer over 60,000 calls annually, providing suicide prevention, crisis intervention, psychological stabilization, emotional support, information, referral and education services.
The centre maintains two phone lines — a distress line and a crisis line. All services are free for individuals living in the geographic areas covered by DCOR.
How you can help
GIVE
DCOR fundraises to maintain its 24/7 services and train volunteers. Community donations support phone lines, volunteer training, technology upgrades and public awareness programs.
• $50 keeps the lines open for one hour
• $250 pays for suicide prevention training for one volunteer
• $1,500 provides training for 15 volunteers
Donation options include one-time gifts, memorial or celebration donations, securities and fundraising events.
In addition to call services, DCOR provides professional training to community organizations, businesses and first responders on crisis intervention and suicide prevention. As a non-profit charitable organization, its mission is to ensure no call goes unanswered.
Funding priorities
In 2026, DCOR will expand its training services to more organizations in the region. Priorities include volunteer recruitment and training, as well as outreach to community stakeholders.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers serve as crisis line responders, offering support to callers in crisis or distress. Training covers active listening, communication, crisis response and suicide prevention techniques. Applicants must be emotionally mature, stable, calm and empathetic. DCOR also offers specialized programs for volunteers aged 55+ and practicums for students 19+. Volunteers complete an award-winning training program before answering calls and commit to one four-hour shift per week while following strict confidentiality policies.
Events + fundraising
HOUR TO GIVE
May 21, 2025. A Rogers TV Ottawa community program hosted by Sam Laprade highlighting local charitable organizations.
GIVING TUESDAY
Nov. 28, 2023, and Dec. 3, 2024. A global campaign encouraging donations to local charities, amplified through social media (#GivingTuesday).
MAKE IT MONTHLY
March 2023 and March 2024. A CanadaHelps campaign that added $20 to new monthly gifts of $20 or more.
Hour to Give: A Rogers TV Ottawa program that highlights charitable organizations, giving them a platform to share their work and impact.
Working on Wellness (WOW) Festival: An annual September event in Ottawa where more than 200 organizations connect 2,000+ attendees with wellness services focusing on mental, physical and substance use health.
2025
AFP Ottawa Rising Star
Oliver Saner is a senior philanthropy officer with The Royal Ottawa Foundation, where he works to inspire the community to support The Royal’s mission of reclaiming lives from mental illness and addiction. Prior to his current role, he served as fundraising coordinator at the Youth Services Bureau Foundation. He began his career at The Royal Ottawa Foundation as a prospect research officer and later becoming a development officer.
An active community volunteer, Oliver has contributed his time at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, served as treasurer of the Elmdale Tennis Club, participated on the steering committees for Father’s Day on the Hill and the Canadian Mental Health Summit, and was the inaugural event chair for Nepean High School’s Relay for Life.
Nominated by The Royal Ottawa Foundation.
Delaila Salem
2025 Outstanding Youth Philanthropist
Delaila Salem is an extraordinary young leader whose impact has been deeply felt across BGC Ottawa and the wider community. She founded Sidelines with Delaila, a youth-led media platform that shines a spotlight on athletes in the BGC Ottawa Summer League. She began by covering summer league games, recording highlights, interviewing players and coaches, capturing crowd reactions, and creating engaging social media content that celebrated youth achievement. This has led her to expand her platform beyond the club, interviewing high-profile athletes such as Marial Shayok, Ottawa’s first NBA draft pick, covering other sports such as football, and featuring inspiring individuals from the community. Her work has amplified underrepresented voices, inspired pride and fostered stronger connections across our clubhouses and beyond.
Her authenticity and courage in sharing her lived
experiences have deeply resonated with audiences and attracted new support for BGC Ottawa.
She represents the power of the youth voice in philanthropy that mobilizes community pride, inspiring hope and proving that young people can drive meaningful change. Her willingness to speak out encourages other youth, especially girls and Black students, to step into the spotlight. She mentors younger members, showing them how to turn their personal stories into powerful tools for community-building and fundraising.
Nominated by BGC Ottawa.
Adrian Burns and Greg Kane 2025 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
Adrian Burns has dedicated her career to business, corporate governance, broadcasting, the arts, education, public service and community
engagement. She joined the National Arts Centre board as a trustee in 2002, later serving as vice-chair and then chair of the board until 2022.
With deep ties to Western Canada, Adrian has brought several new names to the donors’ table, reinforcing the NAC’s national impact and helping the foundation build relationships with key philanthropists in the West.
With Adrian, Greg Kane served for multiple years on the NAC Gala committee, including as chair, to raise funds for youth education in the performing arts.
Greg is the former chair of The Ottawa Hospital Foundation board of directors. He played a vital role in shaping the foundation into one of the most successful hospital-based foundations in Canada. His leadership and vision were instrumental in keeping the foundation focused and accountable.
With Adrian's support, Greg led the foundation's gala for research, supported the President's Breakfast and was a team captain in the foundation's RIDE cycling fundraiser. Greg's contributions to the foundation have been nothing short of outstanding.
Nominated by the NAC Foundation and The Ottawa Hospital Foundation.
Altis Recruitment and Technology
2025 Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist
Founded in 1989, Altis Recruitment and Technology (formerly excelHR) is one of Canada’s largest independent staffing firms, placing more than 8,000 qualified people every year in meaningful jobs spanning industries and sectors from coast to coast. Canadian-owned and operated, Altis is a certified diverse supplier dedicated to giving back to Canada by creating job opportunities for a diverse and talented workforce. To help qualified newcomers gain a foothold in the Canadian labour market, Altis offers a Newcomer Apprenticeship Program that provides critical Canadian work experience through paid work placements with the firm. Beyond the day-to-day work, Altis gives back to the community by supporting a range of charities that help raise the tides for all — whether by working with at-risk youth, championing women in leadership or advocating for equal opportunity for all to succeed. In everything it
Oliver Saner
Adrian Burns and Greg Kane.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ERNESTO_DI_STEFANO-GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY
responsibility. TAAG is much more than a business, it’s a community partner supporting several local charities and causes. Andrew’s personal story, rooted in a multi-generational small business, fuels his passion for helping others. He believes that true prosperity is measured not just in financial success, but in the well-being of families, the strength of communities and the legacy of generosity.
TAAG Corp.
2025 Outstanding Small Business Philanthropist
TAAG Corp. is led by founder and CEO Andrew Abraham, a visionary leader whose philanthropic efforts have significantly shaped Ottawa’s charitable landscape and who has a deep-rooted commitment to community prosperity and social
TAAG’s collaborative work with other business leaders and charitable organizations has inspired peers in the small business sector to adopt similar values and take leadership roles in fundraising.
TAAG’s belief that “true prosperity is about creating a positive ripple effect” has become a guiding principle for many in the Ottawa business community.
Nominated by Carleton University.
Delphine Haslé
2025 Outstanding Fundraising Professional
Delphine Haslé has been a dedicated professional fundraiser for more than 20 years. Over the course of her career, she has directly raised or overseen the raising of more than $30 million for health care and community organizations. Her fundraising career reflects steady advancement into senior leadership roles across respected organizations. From grassroots fundraising to executive leadership, Delphine has consistently grown impact, broken records and lifted the entire sector through mentorship and visibility.
Beyond dollars raised, Delphine’s impact lies in transforming organizations. In her role as executive director and chief development officer at Perley Health Foundation, she led the most ambitious campaign in the foundation’s history, helping evolve the organization from a local leader into a national voice in senior and veteran care. Her strategic leadership delivered not only record-breaking results, but also a cultural shift: in the past five years, 70 per cent of the major donors have been new to the organization, proof of her ability to open networks and inspire bold generosity.
Nominated by AFP Canada Foundation board member Jenny Mitchell, CEO of Chavender.
Jim Kyte
2025 Outstanding Leadership and Focus on IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access)
Jim Kyte embodies the spirit of the IDEA award through his unwavering commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity and access.
As the first and only legally deaf player in NHL history, Jim understands both the challenges and possibilities that people with disabilities face.
Jim's leadership style creates a multiplier effect, inspiring others to step into leadership roles in fundraising and advocacy. He listens as much as he speaks and he consistently centres the voices and experiences of people with disabilities in all discussions and decisions. Jim understands that effective advocacy requires both individual excellence and systemic change. His work demonstrates that people with disabilities are not problems to be solved but valuable community members with unique perspectives and contributions to offer.
Jim's approach to philanthropy and community leadership is characterized by innovative strategies that address systemic barriers while building bridges across different sectors and communities. He leverages his unique position as a bridge between the sports, academic and disability communities to create unprecedented partnerships. His work spans multiple organizations and sectors.
Nominated by ABLE2.
does, Altis’ goal is always the same: to elevate human potential.
The third annual Altis Bocce Battle raised funds for CHEO and Christie Lake Kids.
Nominated by Christie Lake Kids.
Altis Recruitment and Technology.
TAAG Corp.
The Ashbury Parents’ Guild
2025 Outstanding Philanthropic Group
The Ashbury Parents’ Guild has been a cornerstone of community engagement at Ashbury College for more than 70 years. Comprised entirely of dedicated volunteers, the APG brings heart, innovation and a spirit of service to every initiative it supports.
Over the past decade, Ashbury College’s commitment to accessibility has grown significantly, with needs-based student financial assistance now supporting more than 12 per cent of the student body. This remarkable growth has been made possible in part by the enduring efforts of the Ashbury Parents’ Guild, with volunteerdriven initiatives that have formed a backbone of support. From establishing one of the school’s largest bursaries over 30 years ago and impacting countless student recipients, to creatively funding assistance through used uniform and textbook sales, as well as many other formal and grassroots events, the APG has helped open doors for talented students who might not otherwise have access to an Ashbury education. Its work exemplifies the power of community-led philanthropy in driving meaningful change.
Nominated by Ashbury College.
2025 Outstanding Individual Philanthropist
The Griffin Bell Family
(Tamy, Evan and Abby and in honour of Griffin)
In honour of their son and brother, Griffin James Bell, who passed away in 2023 at the age of six, the Bells have transformed unimaginable loss into extraordinary philanthropy, creating a powerful legacy in pediatric oncology research and
children’s health care at CHEO. Their generosity is personal, transformative and catalytic — inspiring individuals, families and community leaders to step forward in meaningful ways.
It all began with Griffin, who proudly captained Griff’s Gang at CN Cycle, showing that even a young child could rally a community to take meaningful action. Under his leadership, the team grew year after year, drawing in families, colleagues, corporate partners and local businesses and establishing a model of grassroots engagement that continues
today under the stewardship of his parents and sister. Griff’s Gang has become a powerful symbol of hope and leadership, attracting new donors, monthly contributors and corporate supporters eager to join the cause.
The Bell family’s impact extends far beyond their own extraordinary philanthropy; they have created a movement that inspires others to step into leadership roles in fundraising.
Nominated by The CHEO Foundation
The Ashbury Parents' Guild.
Griffin Bell Family: Tamy, Evan and Abby and Griffin.
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