SickKids Foundation recently honoured more than 80 young philanthropists in the inaugural Kids Believe in SickKids Awards.

As part of a campaign supporting the spirit of giving among youth, the Foundation distributed awards in four categories at the hospital's Garden Terrace on Nov. 20. Winners included, 18-year-olds Anthony Mascarin and Justin Bonfini, who held a community rock concert; St. Ignatius of Loyola high school students, who organized a fashion show; 13-year-old Cole Rodness, who requested donations in lieu of Bar Mitzvah gifts; and eight-year-old Sydney White, who helped raise donations through bracelet sales and piggy bank donations.

Launched in 2005, Kids Believe in SickKids supports adolescents and youths wanting to get involved in fundraising activities for the hospital. Through this exciting program, children play a part in the treatment and recovery of thousands of their peers with injuries and illnesses.

"Regardless of the size of the donation, these extraordinary children all deserve to be celebrated," said Paula Roberts, vice president of Strategic Communications at the Foundation. "As a philanthropic leader and an advocate of children's physical, mental and emotional well being, we think it's important to foster empathy in children and to teach them the importance of giving to others."

For more information on Foundation news, announcements or interview requests, please contact:
Sandra Chiovitti
Public Affairs
SickKids Foundation
P: 416-813-8292
Email:sandra.chiovitti@sickkidsfoundation.com