What we do
We Launch Dreams!
The Children’s Aid Foundation of Ottawa (CAFO) is dedicated to enriching the lives of children, youth, and families supported by The Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa (CASO). Our Dream Launcher Donor community envisions a future where all our Ottawa kids are resilient, thriving, and confident.
Dare to dream!
Over the past 20 years, more than $2-million has been raised to provide nearly 1,000 Dare to Dream educational bursaries to youth involved with child welfare.
Forty youth are currently pursuing their post-secondary education
”I will become the first-ever person in my family to receive a college education. Who would have thought this was possible? Something tells me YOU did, because you funded my dreams and my future. Thank you so much for everything that you do.” Adalee, ‘Dare to Dream Bursary’ recipient
182 youth have successfully transitioned to independent living last year
“We don’t want our kids, who have already come so far, to age-out of foster care into loneliness,” Child Protection Worker, CAS Ottawa
154 children had “the best time ever!” at their camp experience
“The kids were able to be kids, our worries were forgotten about for a week,” 9-year-old ‘Camp for Kids’ recipient
How you can help
Become A dream launcher!
When donations and sponsorships are given on an ongoing basis, your kindness is shared with children and youth in child welfare at a time when they need it most.
Your monthly or yearly donation / sponsorship means our Ottawa kids have a dependable base of support and you are investing in their future. Not only do we provide emergency needs, like a new bed, stroller, or clothing, but we fund preventative programs directed to where it’s needed most.
Three Ways to Support Our Ottawa Kids:
Event Partnership: Join us as an event partner at one of our yearly events & gain community recognition for your corporate social responsibility.
Sponsor a Program: There are several to choose from, from the ‘Dare to Dream’ Bursary to ‘Camp for Kids’.
Donate the Proceeds from your own team-building event. www.DreamLauncher.ca
Funding priorities
Education
-
Dare to Dream Bursary:
Postsecondary Tuition/Fees - Tutoring and Learning Support
- Psychoeducational Assessment
Life enrichment and Mental Health Supports
- Summer camp experiences
- Counselling
- Sports registration and equipment
- Arts and culture experiences
Youth Transition out of Foster Care
- Budgeting, cooking and other life skills
- Secure housing by providing last month’s rent
- Apartment set up kit (bed, sofa, kitchen supplies etc
To learn more about this charity, please visit the latest issue of the Giving Guide here:
