About Your Foundation

Every child deserves an equal chance at becoming who they want to be.

OUR MISSION

We inspire our community to give so that everyone in child welfare is empowered to create their own success.

OUR VISION

A future where all families and children are resilient, thriving, and confident.

Growing up in the child welfare system means that these kids often have to care for themselves and their parents rather than focusing on just being kids. No matter the hardships, challenges, or setbacks that life throws at them, children and youth in the child welfare system deserve a chance to:

Create positive childhood memories
Feel empowered and confident
Become successful and resilient adults

You can help them take back their childhood and give them the confidence they need to succeed in life.

Donate Now

ANNUAL DONOR IMPACT REPORT

Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa Youth

Children’s Aid Society youth speak of their childhood experiences and how the Society/Foundation has touched their lives.

Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa Youth

Children’s Aid Society youth speak of their childhood experiences and how the Society/Foundation has touched their lives.

Board of Directors

Executive Committee

LAURA-LEE BRENNEMANChair

I joined CAFO to lend my skills and view points to help vulnerable children and youth thrive. All children deserve the chance to realize their dreams and I am excited that I can be a small part of that.

ANNA LYNCHPast Chair

Being able to provide a different view, experience, or opportunity to children who may not otherwise have the chance is the reason I joined and is the reason I’ll continue to participate.

TOM BATCHELLORVice Chair

Tom has been very active in his community and has had a leading role in many community festivals and local fundraising campaigns. Tom is a Past President of Ajax Rotary and has been an active member for over 20 years.

JOHN HARALOVICHTreasurer

I joined to help youth who need the support of others to achieve the same dreams and goals I had as a youth.

RYAN DUBÉSecretary

Born and raised in Ottawa, I have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the CAFO’s positive impacts on local youth’s lives. I am honoured to contribute in any way I can to the CAFO’s mission of empowering children and youth to fulfill their amazing potential.

Directors

DARLENE CARREAUDirector

As a mother, it is important to invest in and support all kids in our community to have opportunities, achieve their goals, and realize their potential.

JAYNA CARTEREx-Officio

As a Manager at CASO, I see first-hand the positive differences the Foundation makes in the lives of children and youth in our community every day.

JIM CARTYDirector

Following almost 15 years as a foster parent, I am once again honoured to be in a position to help brighten the lives of some of Ottawa’s most vulnerable children and youth who are supported by the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa and the Foundation.

DEREK THUILLARDDirector

I joined CAFO to make a positive impact in the lives of children in our community. It is an honour to be able to contribute CAFO’s mission of empowering youth to thrive.

KARINE JACKSONDirector

Karine represents children on behalf of the Office of the Children’s Lawyer in child protection and family law matters. Much of Karine’s practice is dedicated to the best interests and well-being of children.

BOB HUGGINSDirector

CAFO is essential in helping children in our community to achieve their full potential as they strive to overcome obstacles that life has laid before them. I’m proud to lend a hand in their journey.

TANNER O'NEILDirector

Driven by my family’s experience with the Children’s Aid Society, I joined with the goal of further empowering every child to have dreams and aspirations that are met with support and compassion.

JAMES BLANCHARDDirector

KELSEA TOWELLDirector

I am committed to using my background in marketing and communications to highlight the positive impact the Foundation has on improving the lives of children and youth in Ottawa and beyond.

JUSTINE WHITEHEADDirector