The Trillium Automobile Dealers Foundation (TADF) is a Canadian nonprofit organization established in 2001 as the charitable arm of the Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario (MVRO), formerly known as the Trillium Automobile Dealers Association. It was created to unite Ontario's new car dealers in supporting charitable causes and to fulfill the philanthropic vision of the MVRO.[1][3]

History and Purpose

Founded to give Ontario new car dealers a collective voice in philanthropy, the TADF has spent over two decades supporting a broad range of charitable initiatives. The foundation focuses on aiding health, education, and community-based organizations, reflecting its commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families across Ontario.[1][4]

Charitable Activities and Contributions

Throughout its history, the Trillium Automobile Dealers Foundation has made significant donations to prominent causes. Key examples include:

• A $2 million donation in 2011 toward the construction of the Gift of Life Wing at the Toronto Ronald McDonald House, the largest facility of its kind worldwide. This contribution helped expand accommodation capacity for families of seriously ill children undergoing treatment at nearby hospitals.[1]

• In 2013, a $1 million gift facilitated the establishment of the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital’s Concussion Research Centre in Toronto, supporting research and treatment for pediatric concussion injuries.[1]

• In May 2018, donations totalling $175,000 were made to OPACC (Ontario Parents Advocating for Children with Cancer), supporting families of children diagnosed with cancer, and to Jack.org, a national organization led by young people promoting mental health awareness and stigma reduction.[1]

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation donated 32,000 masks to the Province of Ontario to protect frontline workers and first responders, demonstrating responsiveness to emergent public health needs.[1][5]

Relationship with Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario

As the philanthropic division of MVRO, the foundation aligns with the broader goals of supporting Ontario’s new car dealers, who generate significant economic impact with over 85,000 jobs and $14 billion in GDP annually. This integration enables the foundation to leverage industry support for its charitable programs and maximize community impact.[1][3]

Governance and Registration

The Trillium Automobile Dealers Foundation operates under the business registration number 884628918RR0001 in Canada.[2]

The foundation remains a key philanthropic entity within Ontario’s automotive retail sector, continuously fostering community wellness through strategic charitable investments and support for vulnerable populations.