Plan an event
Host Your Own Fundraiser
From lemonade stands to golf tournaments, you can create your own fundraising event to make a difference in countless lives. Your creativity and passion turns any activity into a powerful way to bring hope to children and families.
We provide everything you need to get started, including planning resources and ideas for fundraisers that are fun, safe, and healthy. Whether you’re organizing a small community gathering or a large-scale event, our tools and support will help you every step of the way.
Community Fundraising
The Mental Health Gala
The Mental Health Gala has become one of Ottawa’s leading fundraisers in support of mental illness in the community. 2025 donations will be donated to CHEO Mental Health Services!
Wonderland Tea Party
Wonderland Tea Party is a fundraising event that supports mental health services for children and youth at CHEO.
Maddy’s Gala
In support of Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice, Maddy’s Gala is a special annual event founded by the Otto family who share the generous spirit of their beautiful daughter Maddy, who faced cancer bravely and died in 2007.
24 Hour Yogapalooza
A continuous yoga event dedicated to supporting childhood cancer treatments and research at CHEO.
Tips for a Successful Fundraiser
STEP 1
Find an Idea
Collaborate with family, friends, or colleagues to plan an event others will enjoy or support. Whether it’s a bake sale, trivia night, or a hockey tournament, the possibilities are endless.
STEP 2
Develop a Plan
Every successful event starts with thoughtful planning. Whether your event is large or small, the details matter. Begin by identifying your audience, setting a clear goal, and choosing a date.
STEP 3
Promote Your Event
Create a personal fundraising page to share your story and collect donations. Spread the word through friends, family, and local media.
STEP 4
Register Your Event
Now that you have your event idea, register your event. Your information is sent to our Community Engagement Team for review.
Ready to Get Started?
It is important to register your event to show the community you are partnering with CHEO!
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can direct your donation, though non-designated funds are preferred to address the hospital’s most urgent needs. Your community engagement representative can guide you on the possible options.
If you’d like the CHEO Bear mascot at your event, contact the CHEO Foundation at 613-737-2780 at least two weeks in advance. You’ll also need a volunteer to wear the costume and someone to assist. Please note the CHEO Bear requests are on a first come first serve basis and requests can’t always be fulfilled.
Donations of $20 or more are eligible for an official tax receipt – event organizers must collect full donor contact information for tax receipt purposes. Lottery tickets, raffle tickets, or merchandise do not qualify for a tax receipt. Event organizers cannot claim a tax receipt in their own name for the total amount raised at their event. For complete CRA guidelines, visit www.cra-arc.gc.ca.
Yes! Please contact the CHEO Foundation office at 613-737-2780 to register your event and a Community Engagement team member will reach out to you within two business days to accommodate your request. Please note that we require at least 10 business days notice in order to have all materials collected and ready for you.
Donations can be submitted online, in person, via e-transfer or by cheque. Please work directly with your Community Engagement representative. Make cheques payable to the CHEO Foundation and mail to the address below. Be sure to include information regarding your event. Please do not mail cash.
Attn: Community Engagement Team
CHEO Foundation
415 Smyth Rd
Ottawa, ON K1H 8M8
Yes. We’re happy to organize a cheque presentation at the CHEO Foundation. You can work directly with a member on our Community Engagement Team to schedule a time. Be sure to register your event and someone from our team will reach out to you within two business days of your form submission.
