Since 1994, the RCMP Foundation has raised more than $10 million in support of community programs and activities across Canada. Our contributions make neighbourhoods stronger, more resilient and better able to serve the needs of everyone in the community.
We are proud to share just a few of our success stories of the benefactors of our Champion Fund. Click through to see some of the good the RCMP Foundation has contributed over the years.
Ottawa Food Bank
The RCMP Foundation is proud to support our community through a donation to the Ottawa Food Bank, made possible by proceeds from this year’s RCMP Musical Ride Open House.
#DYK The Ottawa Food Bank works with over 100 partners to distribute food within the community. 1 in 4 families are struggle to get enough to eat, and 38% of those served are children.
These funds will help the Ottawa Food Bank continue its vital work providing food and support to individuals and families across the region. The RCMP Foundation is grateful to everyone who helped turn a memorable day at the Musical Ride into meaningful support for the community.
FestiVolley 2025
The RCMP Foundation was proud to support the third edition of FestiVolley – a unique sports event for First Nations youth aged 13 to 15.
Over 200 young athletes from communities across the province gathered at the Universite of Lavel in Quebec in order to develop their athletic skills and participate in activities in a positive, dynamic, and respectful environment. The youth also has the opportunities to take part in workshops, team-building activities and, of course, a few friendly games of volleyball.
The RCMP Foundations was elated to facilitate the inaugural Gala, held on the traditional lands of the Huron-Wendat First Nations, the opening ceremony included a performance by the Sandowka dance troop and a traditional feast. “Any time we have the chance to support an event this meaningful – one that makes a real difference for an important part of our community – we’re all on” said Kevin Lawton, executive director of the RCMP Foundation.
Floatilla for Friendship
Flotilla for Friendship is an annual event that brings together Indigenous youth, community organizations and local law enforcement partners for a day of paddling, cultural activities and community connection. The day included canoeing, games, lunch and opportunities for Indigenous youth to connect directly with first responders and community leaders in a safe and supportive settings.
The Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health supported the event by coordinating youth participation, running games during lunch, and provided facilitators who were present to provide support throughout the day.
The event first started 24 years ago by the late Lynda Kitchikeesic and continues to honour her vision of healing relationships between Indigenous communities and public service institutions through land, water, and shared action. “We are deeply humbled to be able to contribute to such a positive event put on by such a wonderful organization in Lynda’s memory”, said Kevin Lawton, executive director of the RCMP Foundation.
Support for Indigenous Comedy Night at RCMP NHQ
Stand-up comic Janelle Niles wanted everyone to know that Indigenous comedy is here to stay. Niles, a Black, Mi’kmaw, two-spirited comedian and founder of Got Land Comedy, headlined the first-ever Indigenous Comedy Night Fundraiser at the RCMP NHQ Mess in Ottawa on November 1. Yes, she had some things to say to the crowd of around 120 mostly RCMP members with friends and family—but it was all done with an overwhelming spirit of friendliness that included a huge dose of humour.
[PHOTO: (l to r) Jennifer Hayward, Comedian; Patricia McDonald, RCMP Central Region, Janelle Niles, Comedian; Patrick Cheechoo, Comedian; Greg Sullivan, PSE at RCMP NHQ; C/Supt Jamie Zettler, RCMP Central Region]
And the crowd got it. It was an evening full of great food, some amazing raffle prizes and, of course, laughter. The three-comedian line-up from Got Land Comedy not only had the crowd in stitches, they also helped organizers raise almost $1,500 for Indspire, a national Indigenous registered charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.
The event was organized by the Central Region Indigenous Liaison Unit in collaboration with the Indigenous Policing Services National – Outreach & Engagement, and the RCMP Foundation. “The program and comedians took the opportunity to not just entertain, but also to educate and strengthen ties between our organization and the Indigenous community,” said lead organizer Patricia McDonald, the Indigenous Liaison Diversity Coordinator in the RCMP Central Region. “A lot of people came together to make it a memorable night,” said co-organizer, Greg Sullivan.
Celebrating 50 years of Women in Policing in the RCMP
[PHOTO: A proud moment as Challenge Coin designer and RCMP member, Kristan Falardeau (r), watches former RCMP Commissioner, Beverley Busson, who is also Falardeau’s godmother, address the RCMP Legacy Regimental Ball.]
To commemorate this historic milestone, the RCMP Officers’ Mess organized the RCMP Legacy Regimental Ball: Celebrating 50 years of Women Police Officers in the RCMP.
The RCMP Foundation was pleased to support this event with a Champion Fund grant and through the sale of the Limited Edition 50th Anniversary of Woman Police Officers in the RCMP Challenge Coin. A total of $12,500 was provided for the event.
The design of the commemorative coin features artwork inspired by a painting from Kristan Falardeau, an artist and dedicated member of the RCMP.
Her motivation was to honour the strong and brave women who paved the way for others who serve today. One member of the original Troop 17 continues to be particularly inspirational to the artist. Beverley Busson is not only the former RCMP commissioner, but is also Kristan’s godmother.
RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme emphasized the significance of this anniversary in a letter recently posted on the RCMP website:
“Troop 17 was a significant milestone, involving a group of women who, despite encountering challenges and systemic barriers, made a difference in their communities and their country. Their resilience and perseverance have helped the RCMP work to correct inappropriate behaviours. Meaningfully addressing known challenges is critical to successfully improving our culture to create a healthy, inclusive and trusted workplace for all our employees, and ultimately enabling us to achieve operational excellence.”
Foundation supports ‘The General’ boosting members’ well-being
When tragedy struck, RCMP Cpl. Meredith Darrah’s inbox would inevitably fill with messages to “take care of each other.” While the words were comforting, she wanted to do more to help others facing tough situations.
[PHOTO: RCMP Cpl. Meredith Darrah with The General]
After 18 months of research and hard work, The General, an eight-month-old standard poodle, is about to join the force as part of a pilot project designed to enhance member well-being. Provided by Canine Therapy for First Responders, The General will assist the Re-Integration program, helping employees return to work after leave.
The General will perform 10-20 specific tasks to provide emotional support, such as interrupting anxiety-driven behaviors and offering a calming presence. He will also be equipped with safety gear to accompany members to the shooting range and attend meetings.
This initiative reflects the RCMP’s commitment to mental health, aiming to create a supportive and compassionate workplace. The General’s presence is expected to bring comfort and smiles during challenging times, showcasing the positive impact of canine therapy.