Canadian Progress Charitable Foundation

The Canadian Progress Charitable Foundation (CPCF) is a Canadian nonprofit organization established to support charitable objectives primarily related to persons with physical and intellectual disabilities, alongside other community needs. It operates as the charitable arm of the Canadian Progress Club (CPC), a nationwide service club founded in 1922 with a focus on enhancing Canadian communities through service and fundraising.

History and Purpose

The CPCF was registered as a nonprofit corporation for charitable purposes in 1968 to provide a lasting legacy for the members of the Canadian Progress Club and to amplify the club's charitable efforts. The foundation is recognized as a registered charitable organization by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) under the Income Tax Act (Canada). Its mission centers on assisting individuals in need across communities where the Canadian Progress Club has a presence, with a significant emphasis on supporting persons with physical and intellectual disabilities.

Special Olympics Partnership

In 1986, the members of the Canadian Progress Club initiated a focused campaign to support Special Olympics Canada through CPCF. The foundation aimed to raise $1 million to create an endowment fund dedicated to this cause. This fundraising goal was achieved in 2005. Since then, CPCF has made periodic and now annual donations to Special Olympics Canada, facilitating athlete participation in international games by providing funding for uniforms and travel expenses. This partnership has grown into a robust relationship, with Special Olympics Canada using CPCF donations to fund training camps for athletes, coaches, and support staff.

Following the success of the first endowment, a second goal was established in 2004 to raise an additional $1 million to continue supporting Special Olympics activities. Efforts are ongoing to meet this target.

Activities and Funding

The foundation's resources are generated through fundraising activities conducted by chartered Canadian Progress Clubs across the country, along with contributions from individual and corporate donors. CPCF's charitable purposes extend beyond disability support to a broader array of community needs, reflecting the humanitarian objectives of the Canadian Progress Club.

The foundation operates independently with bylaws updated in 2014 to comply with regulatory changes, maintaining full support and involvement from its club membership. Its programs and donations aim to enhance community well-being and provide assistance where it is most needed.

Relationship with Canadian Progress Club

The Canadian Progress Club is a fellowship of Canadian citizens committed to voluntary service and community betterment. The foundation serves as the charitable vehicle for the club's philanthropic initiatives, especially those benefiting underprivileged children and individuals with disabilities. The club's motto, "It's great to be Canadian / Soyons fiers d'êtres Canadiens," reflects its pride in contributing to Canadian society positively.

Summary

• Founded: 1968 as a charitable nonprofit corporation
• Focus: Support for persons with physical and intellectual disabilities; broader community assistance
• Notable Partnership: Special Olympics Canada, including an endowment fund raising initiative beginning in 1986
• Funding Sources: Canadian Progress Clubs across Canada, individual donors, corporate sponsors
• Recognition: Registered charitable organization under the Income Tax Act (Canada)

The Canadian Progress Charitable Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in fostering charitable support and community development throughout Canada, leveraging the strength and commitment of the Canadian Progress Club network.

This article is based on information available from Canadian Progress Charitable Foundation sources and affiliated Canadian Progress Club materials.