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About Us

At Durham Children’s Aid Foundation, we are committed to empowering children, youth, and families in Durham Region. As the charitable partner of Durham Children’s Aid Society, we raise essential funds to support those involved in the child welfare system and underserved members of our community.

Our mission is to partner with Durham Children’s Aid Society to empower children, youth, families, and underserved members of the community through strategic fundraising, embracing diversity, and ensuring access to life-changing opportunities.

Our vision is a community in which every child, youth, and family thrives in happiness, surrounded by opportunities and unwavering support.

Together, we can build a future where every child and family in our community thrives.

Programs and Focus Areas

Our programs and initiatives offer a broad spectrum of support, addressing both immediate needs and long-term development, ensuring that child, family and youth receives the assistance they need today while building a foundation for a brighter tomorrow.

  • Compassion in Action Fund

    Every moment counts in a crisis. The Compassion in Action Fund provides lifesaving support to children and families facing urgent challenges. Your donation ensures immediate access to shelter, food, and essentials when they have nowhere else to turn.

    Be the reason a family finds hope in their darkest hour.

  • EmpowerED Futures Fund

    Education doesn’t look the same for everyone—especially for children and youth in care. Did you know that fewer than 50% of kids in care graduate high school? The EmpowerED Futures Fund is changing that.

    Your support provides tutoring, technology, and bursaries to help young people overcome barriers, build confidence, and achieve their educational dreams. Together, we can create a future where every child has the tools to succeed, no matter their circumstances.

    Be the difference in their education journey.

  • Camps for Kids Fund

    For many children, breaks from school aren’t always joyful—they can mean less stability and fewer opportunities for growth. The Camps for Kids Fund provides access to camps and recreational experiences year-round, offering children a chance to explore, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment.

    From building confidence to creating lifelong memories, these experiences can be life-changing for kids who need it most. Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to enjoy the transformative power of play, friendship, and adventure.

  • Holiday Hope

    Every child deserves to feel the magic of the holidays—the joy of receiving a gift, the warmth of a festive meal, and the comfort of knowing someone cares. Through Holiday Hope, you can make the season brighter for children, youth, and families who might otherwise go without.

    Your generosity helps fill homes with joy, laughter, and love during the holiday season.

  • Human Trafficking Prevention and Recovery Support

    Human trafficking is a devastating reality in Canada, with over 90% of reported victims being women and girls – and 1 in 4 victims under the age of 18. We support the CARE Team (Child Abuse, Recovery, and Empowerment) in their important work to prevent exploitation and provide recovery support for survivors.

    Your donations help fund essential services such as counseling, safe housing, transportation, education, and advocacy. Together, we can empower survivors, protect vulnerable youth, and help end human trafficking in our community.

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Support and Giving Options

Be a part of something extraordinary, help us transform the lives of children, youth, and families in our community. Together, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive, grow, and succeed.

Your generosity fuels essential programs and services that provide hope, stability, and opportunities for a brighter tomorrow.

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Our Team

Julie Van Hartingsveldt, CFRE, Executive Director

julie.vanhartingsveldt@durhamcaf.ca

905-433-1551 Ext. 2823

Christina Nelson, Executive Assistant 

christina.nelson@durhamcaf.ca

905-433-1551 Ext. 2411

Leslie McLean, Associate Director 

leslie.mclean@durhamcaf.ca

905-433-1551 Ext. 2409

Jackie Vieira, Operations and Program Manager 

jacqueline.vieira@durhamcaf.ca

905-433-1551 Ext. 2781

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Board of Trustees

Becky Cameron, President

Lori Casselman, Vice-President

Jaclyn Bannan, Secretary

Anisah Julien, Treasurer

Kristy Brown

Mark Bachman

Robert Kiefer

Patricia Milburn

Kristina Moreau

Ruth Nyaamine

Karen Saunders

Kevin VanKampen

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Contact Information

Durham Children’s Aid Foundation

1320 Airport Blvd, Oshawa ON L1J 0C6

Phone: (905) 433-1551

Email: inquiry@durhamcaf.ca

Charitable Registration Number: 85426 0940 RR0001

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