Fundraising for Army Cadets – All Year, All Community
Fundraising is an essential part of supporting Army Cadet Corps across Ontario — ensuring our cadets have access to opportunities that build leadership, discipline, and citizenship. While it’s common to think of fundraising as something that happens in bursts during specific seasons or events, the reality is: fundraising can — and should — happen all year round.
More importantly, fundraising does not always have to involve cadets directly. This is especially useful during exam seasons, summer breaks, or when cadet time is better focused on training and development.
Think Outside the Parade Square
Fundraising doesn’t have to be the same old bottle drive or raffle ticket sale. Here are some outside-the-box, community-focused fundraising ideas that can be led by your Support Committee, volunteers, parents, and local supporters:
🥣 Community Breakfasts or Chili Cook-Offs
Host a monthly or quarterly breakfast at your local Legion, church, or community hall. Invite local chefs or volunteers to contribute. Charge a modest fee and promote it as a great way to support youth programs.
🎨 Paint Nights or DIY Workshops
Partner with local artists or DIY instructors to host fun nights out — no experience required. These events appeal to adults and families and can be ticketed to raise funds while engaging your broader community.
📦 Seasonal Yard Sale or Swap Events
Encourage families to donate gently used items. Hold a spring or fall yard sale or organize a “Swap & Donate” event. Unsold items can be donated to local shelters or thrift stores.
🍪 Holiday Baking or Craft Sales
Around the holidays, host a “holiday market” with baked goods, handmade crafts, or gift baskets. Reach out to local artisans who may be willing to donate or sell items in support of your corps.
🎭 Trivia Nights or Escape Room Challenges
Host a fun trivia night at a local pub or community centre. Or create a mini escape room challenge with a cadet-theme twist. These interactive events draw different crowds and build community connection.
🏃 Charity Walks, Rucks, or Fitness Challenges
Get active! Organize a 5K charity walk, a community ruck march, or even a “push-up challenge” — people can donate per kilometer or per completed task.
🧾 Business Sponsorship Programs
Build partnerships with local businesses who may offer monthly donations, matching gift programs, or sponsor specific needs like uniforms, transportation, or equipment. Offer recognition on your website, banners, or social media in return.
💡 Remember: It’s About Community
Your corps is part of a broader community, and people want to help — especially when they know how their contribution supports local youth. Don’t hesitate to promote your fundraising goals and tell the story of how Army Cadets make a difference.
By spreading your fundraising efforts throughout the year, you avoid burnout, reduce pressure on cadets, and create a sustainable flow of support that keeps your corps strong and thriving.
If you have a successful or unique fundraising idea you’d like to share, we’d love to hear it! Let’s keep building a stronger future for cadets across Ontario — one fundraiser at a time.
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