2021
GRATITUDE REPORT
GRATITUDE REPORT
GRATITUDE REPORT
GRATITUDE REPORT
2021 was a year of community.
In our 47th year of operation, I’m proud to share that Tim Hortons Foundation Camps not only committed to upholding our mission to help youth from underserved communities achieve their full potential, but together, we found innovative ways of bringing to life our shared vision.
Our teams continued to reimagine our engagement with youth despite the ongoing challenges presented by the pandemic. Our Camp-in-a-Box program reached thousands of young people at schools in under-resourced neighbourhoods. We partnered with a leading youth support organization to enhance our mental health advocacy. Through digital programming we supported youth who were unable to return to school for in-person learning. We inspired a new generation of youth through a collaboration with Justice Fund. In the fall, we welcomed hundreds of young people back to the Tim Horton Onondaga Farms camp in St. George, Ontario, for day sessions.
All of this was possible thanks to our vast network of support including our corporate sponsors, community partners, donors, Tim Hortons restaurant owners, managers, team members and guests. Through the power of community, Tims Camps rose to the occasion of another challenging year to continue serving youth. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
With heartfelt thanks,
Graham Oliver
President, Tim Hortons Foundation Camps and Restaurant Owner
Developing Skills
We believe a better future starts with opportunities for youth.
In 2021, the power of our programs helped our participants develop critical life skills like resiliency, responsibility, and teamwork to unlock their true potential and build a brighter tomorrow.
Summer Program
Runs from June to August
Overnight session for ten days across four consecutive summers
Campers build on skills each summer
Social and emotional skill development through engaging workshops, experiential programming and wilderness trips
Emphasis on leadership, responsibility, and teamwork
School Program
Students in grades 6-8 from priority neighbourhoods
Attend two three-day, two-night sessions during academic year
Between visits, students implement new skills back home through a community service project
Camp-in-a-Box materials delivered to 135 schools
School programming pivoted to digital and single day sessions
eCamp and Community Program
In 2021, Tims eCamp replaced the summer session for the second consecutive year due to COVID-19, providing a safe and supportive virtual experience aimed at promoting positive relationships and skill development. Nearly 5000 campers received a Tims Camps backpack to kick-off the program, putting critical resources like school supplies and gift cards into the hands of every camper.
Through our partnership with Jack.org, Canada’s only national charity training and empowering young leaders to revolutionize mental health, we enhanced our mental wellness programming helping youth to understand their mental health needs and the keys to building well-being.
Our partnership with Jack.org focuses on eliminating the stigma often attached to mental health by connecting campers to talks from trained youth speakers on topics such as:
Mental health 101
Identifying the signs of declining wellbeing in self and others
Tactics of offering support and care
Reinforcing how to seek help in times of need
Year in Review
Despite these unprecedented times, 2021 was a year of accomplishments.
8,500 youth served
through Tims eCamp, Camp-in-a-Box, the backpack program, and in-person experiences
1,964 youth graduated
from our summer program, better equipped to reach their potential
4,757 backpacks filled
through donations from corporate and community partners
22 community partners supported
through our Community Initiatives program
$12.4 million
raised on Camp Day
240 Camp-in-a-Box
filled and distributed
Alberta School Program
We know that learning doesn’t happen only inside a classroom. That’s why we partnered with the Canadian Rockies School Division in Alberta to bring education to the outdoors.
Through the Alberta School Credit Pilot Program, seven youth had the opportunity to earn up to two credits toward their high-school diploma in leadership and outdoor skills development by:
- Completing 25 hours of virtual learning
- Attending one day at Tim Horton Children’s Ranch in Kananaskis to put their newfound knowledge to the test
In-person Programming
Through our partnership with Justice Fund and schools serving low-income communities, we cautiously welcomed youth to Tim Horton Onondaga Farms for in-person programming that supported students and teachers in the return to in-person learning. Each activity encouraged campers to step out of their comfort zone and introduced them to experiences they typically have not had the opportunity to access before.
And when schools couldn’t come to us, we went to them, visiting youth in classrooms or tuning in for virtual programming.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
We are committed to making our organization more inclusive, equitable and diverse by ensuring that every staff, volunteer and camper can discover their unique and full potential, and that our values of respect, integrity, and responsibility guide us in everything we do. Over the coming year, we will establish an equity, diversity, and inclusion roadmap through a review of our systems, practices, policies, governance, people, and organizational culture. Staff and Board members are provided learning opportunities related to equity, diversity and inclusion.
The Board of Directors has demonstrated their leadership and commitment in these areas by committing to diversifying our Board of Directors, accomplished by expanding our Board of Directors seats for new Board members.
Truth and Reconciliation
Our Foundation is committed to supporting Indigenous youth and their families in the communities we serve, and to learning and understanding our shared history so that we may move toward a stronger future, with relationships rooted in understanding and respect.
In late 2020, our Truth and Reconciliation Working Committee reviewed the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This review resulted in the identification of training opportunities for our staff. In 2021, we observed the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, encouraging staff to engage in reflection, and we remain committed to providing training and education opportunities for our teams.
Justice Fund
Reaching a new generation.
Tims Camps launched a 10-week pilot program with Justice Fund to deliver at-camp and in-community programming to Toronto’s underserved communities to foster positive connections, encourage civic engagement and build meaningful skill development.
Our programming was developed in partnership with Justice Fund, community partners, and youth – allowing us to merge our expertise to provide the greatest collective impact on the youth we serve.
Respondents reported:
95% made new friends and connected with community
95% connected with respectful and caring adults
90% learned something new (skills, interest, value, forgiveness, or goal setting)
76% improved problem-solving
67% tried new things
When Noah “40” Shebib was talking about how it took time for him to get where he is right now I had an idea of just not giving up.
I learned to always keep my head up and never stop trying to achieve my goals.
During a few of the workshops, I learned how to expand my horizons creatively and challenge myself.
Our Camps
Our camps are the crown jewels that make the camper experience come alive.
The Foundation is home to seven camps across Canada and the United States, each with its own breathtaking setting, a unique set of features, and program opportunities.
Children’s Ranch
Tim Horton Children’s Ranch
Kananaskis, Alberta
Located on 205 acres of land with the gorgeous backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, campers have the opportunity to ride horseback in the indoor arena or along the many trails, as well as rock climb, hike, and white-water raft. The Ranch even features a new outdoor pizza oven thanks to retired Tim Hortons restaurant owner and long-time Foundation supporter, Brian Hicks.
The Ranch is on the traditional territory of the Tsuut’ina and Stoney- Nakoda territory, and the Blackfoot Confederacy and is governed by Treaty 7.
Camp des Voyageurs
Camp des Voyageurs Tim Horton
Quyon, Quebec
Built in 1994, Camp des Voyageurs is nestled near the Ontario border along the shores of the Pontiac Bay. One of its notable features is a giant swing that hoists campers 40 feet in the air before they release themselves from the pulley and swing from the sky. The climbing tower was restored last year thanks to the fundraising efforts of former Tim Hortons restaurant owner, Sonia Tousignant.
Camp des Voyageurs is situated on the Algonquin, Anishnaabeg, Huron - Wendat, St. Lawrence Iroquoians, and Mohawk traditional territory.
Kentahten
Tim Horton Camp Kentahten
Kentucky, United States
Featuring 50 acres of beautiful waterfront property, Camp Kentahten is the perfect space for campers to canoe, kayak, swim and fish, as well as enjoy the 400-foot zipline, high and low ropes adventure courses, and climbing tower. This past year saw upgrades to camp vehicles and maintenance equipment, as well as improvements to the septic system.
Tim Horton Foundation Camps recognizes that our work takes place on traditional Indigenous lands in the United States. This includes and is not limited to the Tsalaguwetiyi, Shawandasse Tula, S’atsoyaha (Yuchi), and the Adena.
Onondaga Farms
Tim Horton Onondaga Farms
St. George, Ontario
On this 400-acre site comprised of farm and wetlands, campers not only learn about their world but also have the chance to explore other ecosystems. They learn about nature through the working farm, handling a range of animals to build emotional intelligence, and explore space using the observatory. New carpets were recently installed throughout the main lodge, and upgrades were made to the home of the original property owners, Gil and Molly Henderson, with the intent of inviting small groups of restaurants owners and supporters for team building or family getaways.
Onondaga Farms is on land set aside for the Haldimand Tract, which includes six miles on each side of the Grand River, land promised to the Haudenosaunee people of The Six Nations, The Attawandaron, and Anishnaabe. We recognize this is the traditional territory of the Mohawk, Cayuga, Seneca, Oneida, Tuscarora, Wyandot, Mississauga, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, and Onondaga peoples.
Memorial Camp
Tim Horton Memorial Camp
Parry Sound, Ontario
Set along Lorimer Lake, Memorial Camp was the first camp site established in 1975. Its ideal location allows campers to enjoy an array of water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, swimming and pontooning, and features an archery field, climbing wall, and high and low ropes adventure courses. Recently completed projects include the Ontario House deck renovation as well as the creation of an overnight platform to be used during wilderness adventures.
We acknowledge Tim Horton Memorial Camp is on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe Peoples, governed by the Williams Treaty.
Children’s Camp
Tim Hortons Children’s Camp
Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia
Built in 1988, the Children’s Camp sits on 250 acres of land on the Northumberland Strait and features 1,500 metres of beachfront access. It boasts trail systems, a high ropes course, beaver ponds, and a large recreational centre. Campers can experience kayaking, water tubing, and even bee keeping. In 2021, the main lodge deck, windows, and countertops were replaced, and the staff apartment was renovated. Camp vehicles were upgraded.
Tim Hortons Children’s Camp resides in the unceded Mi’kmaq territory and the Wabanaki Confederacy which is governed by the Peace and Friendship treaty of 1752.
Whiteshell
Tim Horton Camp Whiteshell
Seven Sisters Falls, Manitoba
The newest of our seven sites, Camp Whiteshell is set along the picturesque shores of Sylvia Lake within the Whiteshell Provincial Park. The site features a yurt village used for arts, crafts, and music, a natural sandy beach for swimming and canoeing, low ropes adventure courses and sports facilities including an archery range. One of the major projects in 2021 included the beginning phases of building a new bathroom block for the yurt village.
Tim Horton Camp Whiteshell is located in Treaty No. 3 Territory, the traditional lands of the Anishinabe, Ininew, Oji-Cree, Dene, and Dakota, and is the Birthplace of the Métis Nation and is in the Heart of the Métis Nation Homeland
More than just a summer vacation
Catherine was just nine years old when she first attended Tims Camps. She felt overwhelmed by her new environment and was homesick and scared about the challenges ahead. With the support of counsellors and fellow participants, she learned to thrive in the face of every obstacle and ultimately spent six summers at Tims Camps.
Entering university, Catherine experienced similar fears. “But I thought if nine-year-old me could go to this completely new place with hundreds of new people – away from everything I was familiar with – and I could make friends and have a worthwhile, meaningful experience, then I can do it again. I went into university with all the memories of camp in my backpack and all the tools I needed to tackle this new environment.”
Now Catherine is a Health Sciences major at one of Ontario’s leading Universities. The power of camp is transformative!
More than just a summer vacation
Catherine was just nine years old when she first attended Tims Camps. She felt overwhelmed by her new environment and was homesick and scared about the challenges ahead. With the support of counsellors and fellow participants, she learned to thrive in the face of every obstacle and ultimately spent six summers at Tims Camps.
Entering university, Catherine experienced similar fears. “But I thought if nine-year-old me could go to this completely new place with hundreds of new people – away from everything I was familiar with – and I could make friends and have a worthwhile, meaningful experience, then I can do it again. I went into university with all the memories of camp in my backpack and all the tools I needed to tackle this new environment.”
Now Catherine is a Health Sciences major at one of Ontario’s leading Universities. The power of camp is transformative!
Youth Advisory Council
For Youth, by Youth
The Youth Advisory Council is a group of current and former campers who provide valuable feedback, expertise, and guidance to ensure our policies, programs, and strategic direction are relevant to the kids and communities we serve.
Their 2021 accomplishments included:
Capturing The Youth Voice
Created systems that use surveys, social media, and townhall-style meetings to capture a larger youth voice
Foundation Mission, Vision, and Values
Were consulted as we updated our mission, vision and values to help us articulate our commitment to help youth from underserved communities achieve their full potential.
Staff Policies and Procedures
Collaborated with Human Resources to update the Code of Conduct for summer staff.
Program Quality
Supported the pilot of the Program Quality Assessment (PQA) tool to help make our programs and spaces safe, supportive, interactive, and engaging for campers.
Thank-you to all members of the Youth Advisory Council for your guidance and support!
Fundraising
Thank-you to our Camp Champions
Tim Hortons Foundation Camps programs would not be possible without the support of our amazing partners. We are so grateful to the following corporate supporters who are committed to enabling youth to reach their potential. Thank-you for believing in the power of camp and community!
Our Forever Partner
Ron Joyce established Tim Hortons Foundation Camps in 1974 in honour of his friend and hockey legend, Tim Horton. Today, our restaurant owners continue to carry the torch as Tims Camps delivers experiential programming to help youth from underserved communities achieve their full potential. Thank-you!
Our Partners
Total Raised: $111,571.50
Dart has been a longstanding and generous supporter of Tims Camps, and in 2021 gifted the Foundation over $100,000. We’re incredibly grateful for their dedication to supporting underserved youth. Thank-you to our friends at Dart Canada!
“Dart is privileged to support Tim Hortons Foundation Camps. The difference the Foundation is making in the lives of youth from underserved communities is truly inspiring. Teaching young people how to build social, leadership, and innovation skills to help them achieve their full potential aligns closely with Dart’s values of respecting all individuals, promoting teamwork, and encouraging innovation.”
– Bob Novak, Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing
$100,000+
$25,000+
Aspire Bakeries
EggSolutions
Kraft Heinz Company
Kimberly-Clark Professional Lassonde
McCain Foods (Canada)
Monarch Specialities Inc.
Mother Parkers Tea & Coffee Inc.
Weston Foods
$10,000+
Agropur Dairy Cooperative
Cotton Candy
Deluxe Payroll
Edge Imaging
Entripy Custom Clothing
Fresh Start Foods
Gemsys Money Handling Systems Inc
Marsan Foods Limited
Marsh Canada Ltd.
McNairn Packaging
Payworks
Rich Products of Canada
Saputo Dairy Products Canada
$5,000+
Cineplex Digital Media
Ecclesiastical Insurance
GFS Gordon Food Service
Hershey Canada
Nu-Tech Precision Metals
Pegula Sports and Entertainment
The Coca-Cola Company
Willow Lodge Home for Special Care
Foundations & Community Organizations
Ottawa Senators Foundation
Stober Foundation (DBA Falcon Foundation)
The MacKenzie Family Foundation
Thank-you to our valued corporate partners!
Top Fundraising Events
Tims Camps’ generous community of restaurant owners, donors, volunteers, and supporters showed-up for youth in 2021, enabling our team to adapt to be there for youth even during a year of tremendous uncertainty. Our supporters make it all possible!
Camp Day was kickstarted in 1987 by 58 Atlantic restaurant owners who donated 24 hours of sales to Tim Horton Children’s Camp in Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia. This initiative expanded company-wide in 1991 and to this day, remains the Foundation’s most important annual fundraiser.
Last June, Tim Hortons restaurant owners, staff, and guests were instrumental in making the 30th anniversary one of our most successful campaigns yet.
Thank-you Tim Hortons restaurant owners and staff for your dedication and energy that you continually bring to this initiative.
Raised: $12.4 million.
Last June, Tim Hortons restaurant owners, staff, and guests were instrumental in making the 30th anniversary one of our most successful campaigns yet.
Thank-you Tim Hortons restaurant owners and staff for your dedication and energy that you continually bring to this initiative.
Raised: $12.4 million.
Coast-to-Coast for Camp Day
In the lead-up to Camp Day, we challenged our staff and supporters to hike the entire length of the Trans Canada Trail to raise vital funds for the Foundation.
-
312 participants
-
980 donations
-
29,185 km hiked (2,185 km more than the length of the trail!)
Thank-you to every participant and donor for helping youth to carve a new path for themselves.
This event raised over $250,000.
Hamilton Tiger-Cats 50/50 Draw
Tims Camps once again teamed up with the Ticats for two 50/50 draws.
-
Friday, September 17, 2021 – Ticats vs. Calgary Stampeders
-
Saturday, October 2, 2021 – Ticats vs. Montreal Alouettes
Thank-you Hamilton Tiger-Cats for being a dependable team player and one of our biggest fans!
This event raised over $40,000.
24th Annual Black Book Kathy Ward Memorial Golf Tournament
The former Canadian Black Book President and Tims Camps supporter had a vision to send 1,000 youth to camp!
-
Maple Down Golf & Country Club, Vaughan, Ontario
-
Raised $650,000 to date
Thank-you to the organizers, players and supporters for your drive and commitment to Tims Camps.
This event raised over $29,000.
Windsor/Essex & Chatham-Kent Golf Tournament
Former Tim Hortons restaurant owner Joost Gragtmans helped organize the annual tournament since 1993, and last year’s event was held in his honour following his passing in early 2021.
-
Ambassador Golf Club, Windsor Ontario
-
Thank-you to committee members Marcy Cheetham, Cara Gragtmans Walsh, Sue Hanson, Elissa Jancevski, Jessica Pritchard, Vicky Smith and Darlene VanDerBrand.
Thank-you to the organizers, players, and supporters for helping us to deliver life-changing programs to youth.
Raised: $22,000
Financial Health
As a not-for-profit, our ability to help youth realize their potential is directly correlated with our financial health.
Every year we strategically evaluate our investments, expenditures, and revenue streams, to ensure we can continue to provide life-changing, experiential camp programming for youth in Tim Hortons communities.
Total Revenue
(amount in CDN$)
Camp Day ($11,844,801)
RBI Group of Companies ($3,550,000)
Fee For Service & Other Receipts ($2,768,028)
Coin Program Donations ($1,442,433)
Individual Donations ($898,511)
Warm Wishes/TH Merchandise/Minis ($834,084)
Corporate Donations ($722,785)
Special Events ($351,933)
Annual Operating Expenses
(amount in CDN$)
Charitable Purpose ($13,474,946)
Fundraising ($1,927,107)
Administration ($1,846,922)
Our campers, staff, and donors once again showed tremendous leadership, responsibility, and teamwork during another challenging year. Our accomplishments would not have been possible without your support.
On behalf of everyone at Tim Hortons Foundation Camps, we express a heartfelt
THANK-YOU THANK-YOU THANK-YOU THANK-YOU
Charitable No. Canada: 11926 4885 RR0001|Charitable No. USA: (501(c)) 31-1681446