One of the highlights of each year at the Azrieli Foundation is its annual Staff Volunteer Day – an opportunity for employees to connect with one another while supporting organizations that are making a meaningful difference in the community.
This year, staff spent the day volunteering with Campfire Circle, a grantee organization dedicated to bringing joy and a sense of belonging and normalcy to children with cancer or serious illness and their families, through medically supported overnight camps, community programs and in-hospital programs.
Since 1983, Campfire Circle has helped children facing serious health challenges reclaim a childhood that can too often be defined by hospitals, treatments and uncertainty. Beyond creating opportunities for fun and friendship, their programs help reduce isolation, build confidence and connect families with a supportive community. Through partnerships with paediatric healthcare providers across Ontario, Campfire Circle ensures children can safely participate in camp experiences, whether at a hospital bedside, in their local community or at a medically supported overnight camp. All programs are offered at no cost to families, ensuring that every child is welcome to participate.
This year’s volunteer day began with a series of icebreakers that encouraged staff to connect with their colleagues. Then it was time to roll up their sleeves and get to work. Staff helped prepare materials that will directly support Campfire Circle programming: assembling arts and crafts kits for campers in hospitals, organizing activity supplies and creating unique mementos that will be used in future camp experiences. Each kit represents an opportunity for a child to express creativity and connect with others.
For many staff members, the annual volunteer day provides a valuable opportunity to see the impact of the Foundation’s philanthropy beyond grantmaking. By working in the field with a grantee, employees gain a deeper understanding of how organizations like Campfire Circle transform funding into meaningful experiences for children and families. As André Beaulieu, CEO of the Azrieli Foundation, noted, “Our annual Staff Volunteer Day gives us the opportunity to see our philanthropy in action and strengthen our connection to the communities we serve.” Experiences like this not only strengthen our staff’s connection to the Azrieli Foundation community, but also inspire them in their work, encourage volunteerism and reinforce the importance of giving back.
As one staff member, Antonia, reflected:
“Our Volunteer Day with Campfire Circle was an absolute highlight! Knowing that the craft kits and materials we prepared will help kids affected by serious illness just be kids and experience the pure joy of camp is wonderfully special. It was a meaningful day that left me feeling energized and eager to support their work even further.”
As the day came to a close, staff left with a deeper appreciation for the important role Campfire Circle plays in the lives of children and families across Ontario. The Azrieli Foundation’s annual Volunteer Day creates the opportunity for Foundation staff to engage directly with grantee organizations and witness the impact of the Foundation’s philanthropic investments firsthand.
