CAA Niagara is thrilled to announce that it is now accepting applications from Niagara-based charities for its Community Boost funding program.

Now in it’s fourth year, Community Boost was launched as a way for the club to pool its sponsorship dollars into one, highly-focused program that would have a greater impact on the Niagara community. Through this program, two charities are selected to each receive a one-time donation of $10,000, as well as various forms of volunteerism, marketing assistance and fundraising support for the duration of one year. The club also decals two new towing vehicles in its fleet, each in one of the charity’s branding and colours. The decaled trucks remain in the CAA Niagara fleet for the entire life of the vehicles.

In 2021, the club received nearly 60 applications from local charities, which were reviewed and narrowed down by an internal committee, before employees from all levels of the organization voted from a shortlist of finalists. It was with great excitement that Gillian’s Place and Hospice Niagara were ultimately chosen as the recipients for that year.

“We take great pride in the support we’ve been able to provide through Community Boost thus far,” said Peter Van Hezewyk, President and CEO, CAA Niagara. “Since 2019, we’ve partnered with six different charities across Niagara, each of which differ greatly in terms of the programs they provide and the groups that they serve—but all of which do incredibly impactful work in our local community.

Selecting new recipients is always a difficult decision because we want to help everyone; there are so many amazing organizations within our region,” added Mr. Van Hezewyk. “We encourage all eligible charities to apply, and we look forward to welcoming two new members to our Community Boost family.” 

The club is accepting applications through Friday, April 1st. Based on feedback from CAA Niagara Members and employees, preference will be given to charities dedicated to community safety, programming for seniors and children, social services, mental health services, and environmental conservation and sustainability.

Interested charities can download the application form or learn more about recent recipients at caaniagara.ca/communityboost.

PHOTO INFORMATION

(Left to right) Alicia Merry, Director, Marketing, Communications and Fund Development, Hospice Niagara; Peter Van Hezewyk, President and CEO, CAA Niagara; and Nicole Regehr, Executive Director, Gillian’s Place posed with $10,000 donations from CAA Niagara at the 2021 Community Boost truck unveiling event (Credit – Courtesy of CAA Niagara).