Frequently asked questions.

A national programme, powered by Beneva and delivered with Community Foundations of Canada, that recognises people whose generosity helps their communities. Each honouree directs a $5,000 donation to a registered Canadian charity of their choice.

One person, or a group of people who gave together, whose primary residence is in Canada and whose contribution was made without payment and helped people or communities in Canada. Businesses and organisations cannot be nominated, though a person connected to one can be nominated for something they did themselves, on their own time and without pay.

No. Self-nominations are not eligible. Anyone else can nominate you, and there is no cost to nominate.

No. We do not accept attachments, and a nomination is not at any disadvantage without them. It keeps the process fair, so no one is helped by polished materials or media coverage. Tell us what happened in your own words.

Four questions about the nominee: what they did, how long and how often, what people were asking for or needing, and what changed. Each answer can be up to 500 words. Specific details matter more than general praise.

An independent committee reads every nomination in context, through three lenses: Time, Talent and Treasure. A nominee does not need to be strong in all three. Reviewers look at the contribution, not its size or how visible it was.

Each honouree chooses a registered Canadian charity to receive a $5,000 donation, made in their name. Honourees are also recognised on this website and through Beneva and Community Foundations of Canada.

A charity registered with the Canada Revenue Agency, located in Canada and serving communities in Canada, in good standing with the CRA, with a bank account in the organisation’s name and a primary purpose that is not political.

Yes, as long as they lived in Canada during the time of their contribution.

Nominations open 15 November 2026 and close 15 February 2027. Successful nominees are notified in winter 2027.

Beneva powers the programme. Beneva is not involved in choosing honourees at any level. Selection is handled by an independent committee, with Community Foundations of Canada bringing community knowledge and connection to the national foundation network.