2024 National Philanthropy Day 

Don and Leanne Black

2024 Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Every year in November, the Association of Fundraising Professionals - South Saskatchewan Chapter joins charities, organizations, and citizens across Canada to celebrate National Philanthropy Day by recognizing the contributions of donors and volunteers. This year, we are pleased to announce Don and Leanne Black as our 2024 Outstanding Philanthropist award recipients, presented by DCG Philanthropic Services Inc. and supported by the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation.

Don and Leanne Black are the epitome of philanthropists. Serving as Honourary Chairs of the Almost Home Capital Campaign for the Regina Humane Society, they devoted over four years to ensuring the $15 million goal was met. Starting with a generous personal gift to the Campaign of $250,000, Don and Leanne provided unwavering commitment and leadership to all aspects of the project. Never one to shy away from encouraging others to donate and become involved in their community, Don and Leanne secured several large major gifts for the RHS and were instrumental in making the Animal Community Centre a reality. In addition to asking and donating, they attended countless Cabinet meetings, building tours, and media/donor events. Their commitment to the project and Campaign goal never waivered, and in May of 2024, the goal was achieved.

More than just generous donors and volunteer fundraisers, Don and Leanne's involvement in the community includes so many charities, including the Hospitals of Regina Foundation (Don was one of the four founders), Mackenzie Art Gallery, Regina Food Bank, Saskatchewan Roughriders, RCMP Heritage Centre, Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan and the Jim Pattison Children's Hospital to name but a few. They are always willing to offer their counsel and advice and are tireless advocates for others as fortunate as them to give back to others in need.

Personally, Don and Leanne spoil their three rescue cats and continue to advocate for homeless animals in need along with the other causes they hold dear. They are kind, patient, generous, and boisterous when needed, and I can't imagine Regina without them. They are so deserving of this recognition both as a couple and as individuals who exemplify everything that is great about our community and shared values.

2024 National Philanthropy Day 

Capital Auto Group

2024 Outstanding Community Partner Award Recipient

Capital Auto Group: Driving Positive Change in Southern Saskatchewan

Community has always been at the heart of Capital Auto Group’s journey. Bruce Axelson, who began sweeping floors at Anderson Motors at the age of 14, laid the foundation for this commitment. His passion for the automotive industry led him to purchase his first dealership in Melfort in 1974. Over time, he expanded his reach, acquiring Capital GMC Buick Cadillac and several other dealerships across Western Canada and the US.

Beyond business, Bruce cherished his family, friends, and employees. His legacy lives on through his daughters, Andrea and Erica, along with their husbands, Cam and PJ. Together, they continue the tradition of community support in Southern Saskatchewan.

Capital Cares: Strengthening Communities

· Capital Auto Group recognizes that supporting the local community is not just a duty but an integral part of their identity. In 2009, they established Capital Cares, a program dedicated to making a positive impact.

· Through financial contributions, in-kind donations, and volunteer efforts, Capital Cares supports various organizations, educational programs, social initiatives, and individuals.

· Capital Cares has contributed over $ 5 million to more than 40 charities and non-profit organizations in Southern Saskatchewan. Some of these include:

· Alzheimer’s Society

· Canadian Cancer Society

· Canadian Mental Health

· Carmichael Outreach Incorporated

· CNIB

· Conexus Arts Centre

· Habitat for Humanity

· Hospitals of Regina Foundation

· Jim Pattison Hospital Foundation

· Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (JDRF)

· Evening in Greece

· Golf Tournaments (Duke Derek Meyers, Regina Chamber Gold, Agribition)

· Luther High School

· Make a Wish Saskatchewan Chapter

· MS Society

· Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (RQHR)

· North Central Family Centre

· Regina Food Bank

· Regina Humane Society

· Regina Pride

· Regina Science Centre

· Regina Firefighters

· Salvation Army

· SCEP Center

· STARS Air Ambulance

· St Augustine School

· Souls Harbour

· University of Regina Cougars Swim Team

· Wascana Chick-a-Dee

· YWCA

Recent Collaborations:

• Capital Auto Group joined forces with Ronald McDonald House - SK as a founding partner to build a 20-room house in Regina, providing comfort and support to families during challenging times.

• Additionally, Capital Auto Group provided a van to the Regina Street Team, which assists individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health crises, and substance use-related distress in downtown Regina.

Capital Auto Group’s commitment to community exemplifies their belief that success is measured not only in sales but in the positive impact they create.

Congratulations Regina Paramedics with Heart on receiving the 2023 Outstanding Community Partner Award!

Registration

The Association of Fundraising Professionals - South Saskatchewan Chapter has seven award categories we recognize donors and volunteers across. To celebrate all of our award recipients on Friday, November 15, 2024, purchase your tickets to our 2024 National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon presented by DCG Philanthropic Services Inc. and supported by the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation, here: