Community Boost
Supporting Niagara’s Non-Profits
At CAA Niagara, we believe strong communities are built together. That’s why we created Community Boost, a funding and support program dedicated to helping Niagara-based charities grow their impact, amplify their voices, and achieve meaningful outcomes for the people they serve.
The best thing about Community Boost is it isn’t just funding, it’s a partnership. We connect with charities that are rooted in Niagara and working to solve our region’s biggest challenges, whether that’s supporting families, improving safety, or fostering inclusion.
Since 2019, Community Boost has awarded more than $140,000 to local organizations making a difference across Niagara.
The Community Boost Program
Each year, two local non-profit organizations are selected to receive one-time donations of $10,000, as well as various forms of volunteerism, marketing support, and fundraising assistance for the duration of 12 months. Additionally, the recipients' branding are decaled on two new fleet vehicles to increase awareness in communities across Niagara.
Who Should Apply?
- Registered non-profit or charitable organization serving the Niagara Region
- Demonstrated community impact and measurable outcomes
- Commitment to partnership and collaboration
Please note: support is limited to charitable and non-profit organizations only; Community Boost does not sponsor teams, individual pursuits, political groups, or organizations operating outside Niagara.
2025 Recipients
Autism Ontario - South Region
Autism Ontario is a charitable organization with a history of over 50 years representing the thousands of people on the autism spectrum and their families across Ontario. Made up of knowledgeable parents, professionals, and autistic self-advocates who can speak to the key issues that impact autistic individuals and their families, Autism Ontario is the province’s leading source of information and referral on autism, and one of the largest collective voices representing the autism community. The work we do helps all autistic individuals and families in their communities have access to meaningful supports, information, and connections so they are equitably and seamlessly supported across their life course.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity Niagara is a non-profit organization that brings our community together to help families build strength, stability and independence through safe and affordable homeownership. With the help of volunteers and generous donors, Habitat Niagara builds decent and affordable homes that provide a solid foundation for people to build better, healthier lives. Established locally in 1993, Habitat Niagara has constructed 79 homes in Niagara, serving 86 families and creating stable and secure housing for more than 288 children.
Habitat for Humanity Niagara proudly owns and operates three local ReStores in Fonthill, Grimsby and St. Catharines. Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a social enterprise retailer that accepts and resells donations of new and used furniture, appliances, décor, home improvement items and building materials. All proceeds from operations fund Habitat for Humanity Niagara and help build homes in the community for those in need of a safe place to call home. The first Habitat for Humanity ReStore began in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to support Habitat’s mission. Built by Canadians. Building for Canadians.
How to Apply
We know every organization’s journey is unique — that’s why we’ve streamlined the application process to make it as straightforward as possible.
Tips for a strong application:
- Tell us your mission and who you serve
- Describe how the funds will make a real difference
- Highlight community outcomes & how you’ll measure success
Accepting applications March 2 - April 2, 2026.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed and narrowed down by an internal committee made up of CAA Niagara employees. A shortlist of finalists are voted on by employees from all levels of the organization before two recipients are selected. All applicants are notified whether or not they were selected.
If you have any questions about the application process or Community Boost program, please contact Rhiannon Fleming at community@caaniagara.ca.