IGNITE the Light campaign surpasses $100,000 milestone

Canadian Paralympic Committee

July 26, 2024

The goal of the Paralympic Foundation of Canada's initiative is to raise $1 million through the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Canadian Para athlete Greg Stewart celebrates a gold medal winning shotput throw at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

The Paralympic Foundation of Canada’s IGNITE the Light campaign to provide more opportunities for people with a disability through sport has launched from the starter’s gate in spectacular fashion.

As of today, the campaign has already surpassed the $100,000 mark in its unique fundraising, which started less than three weeks ago and is scheduled to conclude on September 8, the last day of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Funds are being raised by selling 40,000 virtual seats at $25 each. The campaign will see Canadian donors receive a unique and personalized virtual seat in the form of a customized graphic to share across their social media platforms.

“We are thrilled to announce that we have reached the $100,000 milestone in our IGNITE The Light virtual seats fundraising campaign,” said Dean Brokop, Chief Philanthropic Officer, Canadian Paralympic Committee. “This incredible achievement is thanks to the generosity and support of Canadians across the country. Thank you to everyone who has purchased a virtual seat so far.”

"I'm not expecting every single person I know to come to Paris to watch me, but by buying a virtual seat, they'll become part of this amazing Para sport community." - Alison Levine, Canadian Boccia star

The IGNITE the Light initiative is about more than just raising funds for the Canadian Paralympic Team; it’s about igniting life-changing opportunities, belief, and inclusion for Canadians with disabilities through sport.

By purchasing a virtual seat, supporters contribute to a future where Canadians with a disability can experience the transformative power of sport. This initiative will help Canadians overcome the expense of adaptive sport equipment, gain access to Paralympic sport programs and coaches, and benefit from specialized training and competition opportunities.

“Your contributions will make a real difference in the lives of Canada’s Paralympic athletes and the development of Para sport in Canada,” Brokop, said. “We continue on this journey to reach our one million dollar goal, and we encourage more Canadians to join us and purchase a virtual seat today!”

Canadians are invited to be part of this historic initiative by purchasing virtual seats here, sharing their participation on social media, and encouraging friends and family to join in. Together, Canadians can illuminate the virtual stadium with the collective energy and pride of the nation.

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will begin with the Opening Ceremony on August 28 and continue through September 8. Audiences can tune in for CBC/Radio-Canada’s coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8 on CBC, CBC Gem, CBC’s Paris 2024 website (cbc.ca/paris2024) and the CBC Paris 2024 app in English and on ICI TÉLÉ, ICI TOU.TV, Radio-Canada.ca/paris2024, and on the Radio-Canada Paralympiques app in French. 

We encourage you to join our CAN Crew cheer squad so that you receive the latest information about the Canadian Paralympic Team on the road to Paris directly to your email inbox. Join today!

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