Canadians Rally Behind Paralympic Team with Landmark IGNITE The Light Campaign

During the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the Paralympic Foundation of Canada (PFC) encouraged Canadians to IGNITE The Light, a groundbreaking fundraising initiative that resulted in donations from across the nation raising over $375,000 to help spark the development of Para sport in Canada.

The IGNITE The Light campaign invited Canadians to purchase a “virtual seat” lighting up a virtual stadium in a symbolic show of support for the 126 Canadian Paralympic Team Members competing on the world stage at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.

Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) President Marc-André Fabien shared his gratitude for the generosity for everyone who purchased a seat and celebrated the impact the campaign will have on the future of Para sport in Canada.

“IGNITE The Light showed the incredible power of community and support for the athletes representing the Canadian Paralympic Team,” Fabien shared. “To see donations from generous Canadians from across the country come together to support the athletes in Paris was truly inspiring. This campaign has proven that Canadians believe in the potential of Para sport and are ready to help spark a bright future for the Paralympic Movement.”

The campaign kicked off with the IGNITE The Lights Across Canada, which saw iconic landmarks from coast to coast illuminated in the Canadian Paralympic Team colours of red, white, gold, and purple. This vibrant display honoured the athletes representing Canada, inspiring a nation-wide movement that transcended the distance between supporters at home and athletes competing in Paris.

IGNITE The Light was the first signature initiative under the larger IGNITE campaign, which aims to raise $35 million for Para sport development in Canada. Through the funds raised, this campaign will help shape a sustainable future for Para sport, providing resources for athletes at every level, from community Para sport organizations through to high performance programs.

The funds raised through the IGNITE The Light virtual seats campaign will go directly towards removing barriers that many Canadians with a disability face to participate in sport. This includes access to adaptive sports equipment, Para sport specific coaching, and specialized training programs that are often financially out of reach. By contributing to the IGNITE campaign, Canadians are directly impacting the lives of aspiring Paralympians, enabling them to pursue their dreams on the world stage.

“The success of IGNITE The Light goes beyond the funds raised. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact Canadians have when they come together,” CPC Chief Philanthropic Officer Dean Brokop shared. “We are incredibly grateful for each and every person who bought a virtual seat and know each donation continues to help ignite pathways for Canada’s next generation of Para athletes.”

If you want to help IGNITE the future of Canadian Para sport, consider making a donation today. Your support will have a lasting impact on the next generation of Para athletes. And don’t forget, by donating before the end of the year, you can take advantage of tax benefits for 2024. Visit the Paralympic Foundation of Canada today to contribute and be part of building a brighter, more inclusive future for Canadian Para sport.