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At Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada, we are continually inspired by the generosity and dedication of our community of supporters. This past holiday season, we are especially grateful to two remarkable individuals whose kindness has had an extraordinary impact on our mission: Joe and Laurissa Canavan.
As the matching donors for our 2024 Holiday Campaign, Joe and Laurissa played a pivotal role in making this season one of the most impactful in the Foundation’s history. Thanks to their extraordinary commitment, every dollar donated during the campaign—up to $50,000—was doubled. This not only amplified the resources available to support children, youth, and families involved in child welfare, but it also multiplied the hope and opportunities we can offer to those in need.
Thanks to their generosity—and the incredible support from donors across Canada—the Foundation raised more than $175,000 this holiday season, setting a new fundraising milestone. These funds will directly empower young people with the tools, opportunities, and support they need to build brighter futures filled with success and possibility.
The Canavans are long-time champions of our mission and important advocates of the children and youth we serve. They have seen firsthand the challenges faced by far too many youth across the country and the transformative impact of the work of the Foundation. Their deep commitment to the well-being of children and youth exemplifies the power of philanthropy to drive meaningful change in the lives of young people.
Joe and Laurissa’s connection with the Foundation spans over two decades. Joe joined the Foundation’s Board in 2004 and served as Chairman and CEO from 2012 to 2014, during which time his leadership helped shape and elevate the organization’s growth. Notably, during his tenure as CEO, Joe was instrumental in creating our Young Person’s Advisory Council—an initiative that continues to inform the Foundation’s work by elevating the voices of young people with lived experience.
Laurissa has been a dedicated supporter, serving for several years on the Foundation’s Post-Secondary Education (PSE) Awards Council, where she provided valuable guidance to the Foundation and youth applying for the Foundation’s scholarship program.
More than two decades since their journey with the Foundation began, Joe and Laurissa remain steadfast in their commitment to improving the lives of children and youth. They continue to contribute their time, expertise, and generosity, creating lasting change that helps these young individuals reach their full potential.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of the Foundation’s success in helping young people heal and thrive across Canada. This campaign, which focused on the importance of how education make children unstoppable – will help Canadian youth believe in their abilities and achieve success in their life. Education is something we’ve been passionate about since we started supporting the Foundation, and we’re proud to support children and youth in achieving their dreams,” says Joe and Laurissa.
On behalf of the thousands of young people whose lives will be brighter because of their generosity, the Foundation extends our deepest gratitude to Joe and Laurissa. Their leadership and commitment fueled the success of this campaign and also inspired hope and possibility for those who need it most.
To everyone who joined us in giving this holiday season: thank you. Together, with supporters like Joe and Laurissa leading the way, we’re helping children and youth involved in child welfare achieve their dreams and thrive.
