Press release
Filling the Gap: Introducing the Canadian Philanthropy Awards
A national programme to honour those who give their time, talent, and treasure to their communities.
For immediate release
TORONTO, ON: July 14, 2026
Canada has Halls of Fame for almost everything. We celebrate excellence in hockey, music, business, and medicine. Yet, there has long been a missing piece in our national story: a dedicated space to honour those who give their time, talent, and treasure to their communities.
Today, the Canadian Philanthropy Awards, powered by Beneva, is proud to announce the launch of a national programme designed to fill that gap.
The Canadian Philanthropy Awards is not a competition, and there are no rankings. Instead, it exists to recognise the diverse ways Canadians show up for one another. From the neighbourhood volunteer who knits a community together to the corporate leader who has spent a decade quietly funding the local shelter's overnight beds, the programme celebrates seven distinct categories of giving.
"We wanted to create a national stage for the quiet, consistent generosity that sustains our country from coast to coast to coast," says Nick Jelinek. "By partnering with a network of over 200 community foundations, we are ensuring that recognition starts exactly where it belongs: in the local community."
The programme is built on a foundation of independence and credibility. While powered by Beneva and delivered with the support of Community Foundations of Canada, the selection of national laureates is handled by an entirely independent committee. This ensures that the recognition is earned through authentic community involvement, free from brand or sponsor control.
In its inaugural year, the programme will begin its rollout with a founding group of community foundations across the country. Nominations open 14 September 2026 and close 31 October 2026, inviting individuals, families, groups, and businesses to share the stories of the givers in their midst.
For more information on the programme and to follow our journey, please visit canadianphilanthropy.ca.
About the Canadian Philanthropy Awards
The Canadian Philanthropy Awards is a national programme that honours giving of every kind. By collaborating with community foundations across Canada, the programme recognises local donors in over 100 communities annually, bringing a select few into a national circle of renown.
Media contact
Ryan Galligan
press@canadianphilanthropy.ca
canadianphilanthropy.ca