The Air Canada Foundation announced the first recipients of its new Big Dreams Grant Program, awarding two Canadian organisations 100,000 Canadian dollars each to help expand access to sport and recreation for children and younger people. Launched earlier this year, the initiative is inspired by the Foundation’s long-standing partnerships with the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Committee, with a focus on supporting inclusion and development among the young people of Canada.
Two organisations receive inaugural grants
The first Healthy Futures Grant has been awarded to the New Pathways Foundation for its “Become” initiative, which empowers First Nations youth through sport and mentorship. The programme combines sports camps with workshops and mentoring sessions, encouraging participants to develop projects within their own communities after completing the camp, such as coaching local teams or creating training spaces.
The Accessible Sports and Recreation Grant has been awarded to Women’s Para Hockey of Canada for its “Future on Ice” programme, which aims to increase opportunities for children and young people with disabilities to take part in ice hockey.
Supporting the next generation
Eric Lauzon, Director of Community Relations and Partnerships at the Air Canada Foundation, said the programme is designed to help young people reach their potential:
“At the heart of the Air Canada Foundation’s mission is a simple belief: every child deserves the chance to feel supported, included and able to imagine what is possible for their future.”
He added that the grant helps support initiatives for children and young people to build confidence and develop a sense of belonging within their communities.
Marie-Claude Cleary, executive director of the New Pathways Foundation, said the funding would help create more opportunities for youth to achieve their goals, while athlete Christina Picton said the grant would help reduce barriers to participation and inspire the next generation of Para athletes.
The Big Dreams Grant Program forms part of the Air Canada Foundation’s wide commitment to supporting youth. The Foundation also provides financial and in-kind support to charities, like hospital transportation and fundraising campaigns.
What do you think of these charity choices? Let us know in the comments below.
