MONTREAL — Sunshine, good company, and a shared sense of purpose came together as the Air Canada Foundation teed up another successful golf tournament for a great cause.
Recently held at Club de golf Le Mirage in Terrebonne, Quebec, the annual event – now in its 13th year – brought in an impressive $1.3 million to support the health and well-being of children and youth from coast to coast.
The tournament – Air Canada Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year – welcomed 296 guests and more than 90 sponsors, including corporate partners, suppliers and vendors. Funds raised will be distributed through the Foundation’s annual grants program, supporting initiatives for children and youth in equity-deserving communities and helping empower the next generation to reach their full potential.
“Each year, I look forward to this day with great anticipation. That is because apart from being an opportunity to meet old friends, make new ones and enjoy a round of golf – it’s about coming together to support children and youth across Canada. This tournament is a testament to the power of unity and how, when we rally together, we can create meaningful change and bring joy to deserving families and communities. I thank all those who participate in this great event and support it in so many ways to make this day a success every year,” said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer at Air Canada.
Priscille LeBlanc, Chair of the Air Canada Foundation, added: “A heartfelt thank you to all of Air Canada’s partners and friends, and also to our volunteers for their support in helping us make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families. Their ongoing commitment attests what we can achieve working together towards a shared mission.”
The Foundation’s impact has continued to grow year over year. In 2024 alone, it donated $1.8 million to charitable organisations nationwide. These contributions helped provide approximately 900,000 meals for children experiencing food insecurity – particularly in Indigenous communities – and delivered healthy meals throughout the summer months when schools are closed. In Quebec, the Dr. Clown Foundation’s social pediatrics program received vital support, enhancing the quality of life for children in the Atikamekw community of Manawan.
The tournament itself reflected the Foundation’s commitment to community, with Air Canada employees stepping up to organize and host the event. Highlights included a piano performance by Customer Experience Specialist Yoko Sawai during the cocktail reception and interactive entertainment from the Dr. Clown Foundation, whose therapeutic programs bring joy to hospitals and Indigenous communities.
Youth representatives from HEROS Hockey ran a lemonade stand that raised over $12,000, while a new addition this year, the “Plinko of Generosity,” engaged guests in a fun, hands-on way to support autism-related initiatives. Nearly $15,000 was donated on behalf of participants and volunteers to local autism organisations through Air Canada Foundation’s Autism Aviation Days.
The event followed the release of the Foundation’s 2024 Impact Report, which outlines the year’s achievements in fundraising, partnerships, employee engagement and community support.
