Air Canada Foundation awards $200K to youth sport programs

Air Canada and the Air Canada Foundation have named the first two recipients of the Big Dreams Grant Program, awarding $100,000 each to initiatives supporting First Nations youth and young people with disabilities.

New Pathways Foundation received the Healthy Futures Grant for its Become initiative, while Women’s Para Hockey of Canada received the Accessible Sports and Recreation Grant for its Future on Ice project.

The national grant program launched earlier this year. 

It was inspired by Air Canada’s partnerships with the Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee.

The program supports Canadian organizations creating inclusive sport and recreation opportunities for children and youth, with a focus on health, well-being, mentorship and community connection.

“At the heart of the Air Canada Foundation’s mission is a simple belief: every child deserves the chance to feel supported, included and able to imagine what is possible for their future,” said Eric Lauzon, director of community relations and partnerships. 

“Through this exclusive Big Dreams Grants program, we are proud to support initiatives that help young people build confidence, discover their strengths and feel a true sense of belonging in their communities.”

Healthy Futures Grant

The Become the Next Coach sports camp empowers First Nations youth through movement, mentorship, and cultural pride. 

During the multi-day camp, participants develop leadership, teamwork and life skills through sporting activities, workshops and conversations with role models.

Each participant also creates a post-camp project, such as coaching a local team or developing a community training space. 

The projects are intended to extend the program’s impact into participants’ home communities.

“We believe that every First Nations young person deserves the opportunity to dream big,” said Marie-Claude Cleary, executive director of New Pathways Foundation. 

“Our collective responsibility is to provide them with the opportunities, role models, and confidence they need to turn their dreams into projects, and their projects into reality. By walking alongside us on these new pathways, the Air Canada Foundation is helping expand what is possible for these young people, and for that, we are deeply grateful.”

Accessible Sports and Recreation Grant

Women’s Para Hockey of Canada’s national Future on Ice project will expand Para hockey opportunities for children and youth with disabilities.

The initiative includes inclusive “try-it” events, a virtual ambassador series and a national awareness campaign. 

It is led by girls and women Para athletes, giving participants opportunities to learn skills and connect with role models in the sport.

The program will also direct families toward community-based programs and resources intended to support continued participation.

“The Air Canada Foundation grant is instrumental in helping WPHC create meaningful sport opportunities for youth with disabilities,” said Christina Picton, WPHC national team athlete. 

“With this support, we're able to reduce barriers to participation, foster confidence, and build a welcoming community where participants can discover the joy of Para ice hockey. This programming is empowering for youth to see what's possible, connect with role models, and gain a sense of belonging. We're incredibly grateful to the Air Canada Foundation for investing in a more inclusive future and helping us inspire the next generation of young athletes in Para sport.”

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