A day of service,
To honour & celebrate Canadian heroes.
Canadian National Day of Service foundation
In the immediate aftermath of 9/11, hundreds of Canadian firefighters and emergency responders travelled to New York City to assist with recovery efforts. Thousands of residents in Gander, Newfoundland, opened their homes and hearts to stranded travellers, demonstrating extraordinary compassion and generosity. Between 2001 and 2014, more than 40,000 members of the Canadian Armed Forces served in Afghanistan.
These remarkable acts of service reflect a longstanding Canadian tradition of stepping forward when others are in need, often without recognition or expectation of reward. They also mirror the dedication demonstrated every day by healthcare professionals, caregivers, and frontline medical teams who work tirelessly to protect the health and well-being of Canadians in communities across the country.
The Canadian National Day of Service Foundation was established to recognize, celebrate, and inspire that spirit of service. As a charitable organization, our mission is to honour Canadians who dedicate themselves to serving their communities, their country, and one another, while fostering gratitude for those whose commitment and sacrifice make our nation stronger.
Service Day
National Day of Service was proclaimed on September 11, 2011, by Prime Minister Stephen Harper to bring a positive focus to a date marked by tragedy and remembrance. The day recognizes the countless Canadians who strengthen our communities through acts of service, volunteerism, and civic engagement.
Each year, we honour and express our gratitude to those who serve—including members of the Canadian Armed Forces, first responders, healthcare professionals, nurses, physicians, paramedics, personal support workers, caregivers, the Intelligence Community, law enforcement personnel, volunteers, community leaders, and everyday citizens whose actions make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Through initiatives such as National Day of Service and programs like Buy a Cop a Coffee, we encourage Canadians to pause and thank those who dedicate themselves to the safety, health, well-being, and strength of our communities.
By celebrating service and expressing gratitude, we help build stronger communities, foster a culture of volunteerism, and remind Canadians that acts of kindness, courage, compassion, and service have the power to create a lasting impact.
We are Canadians making a difference.
Community Service Highlight
Collingwood residents collecting cash, medical supplies for Ukraine
Andy Tereshyn's family ties to Ukraine have prompted him to start asking his new neighbours to help donate supplies for the country under attack
