Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025 www.acquisition-international.com • Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025
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Contents 4 Autism Canada: Autism Support Charity of the Year 2025 – Canada & Award for International Autism Advocacy & Service 2025 6 Bracing Neighbors: Best Community Empowerment & Economic Resilience Program 2025 – Haiti 8 Wild Rumpus CIC – Yuletide: Best Family- Friendly Immersive Outdoor Experience 2025 – UK 9 Barnsley FC Community Trust: Leading Sport & Education Community Impact Charity 2025 10 BRHC Foundation: Best Regional Healthcare Support Initiative 2025 – Manitoba 11 World Federation of Right to Die Societies Most Influential End-of-Life Rights Advocates 2025 12 UK SMART Recovery: Best Addiction Recovery Training Charity 2025 – UK 13 Revive Hope Africa: Global Humanitarian Impact Champions of the Year 2025 & Non- Profit Dedication & Integrity Excellence Award 2025 14 Curly Tails: Pig/Animal Rescue Sanctuary of the Year 2025 – South East England 15 4MyCiTy Inc: Most Innovative Sustainable Food Solutions NPO 2025 – USA 16 Hope on TTaPP: Best Stigma-Free Health Access Movement 2025 – Utah & HIV & Hepatitis C Testing & Support Organisation of the Year 2025 – Utah 17 Steel FM: Best Community Radio Station 2025 – Northern England 18 The SOL Foundation: International Underserved Community Support NPO of the Year 2025 – USA 19 STEMM & Cancer Health Equity Foundation: Best STEM Diversity & Cancer Health Equity NPO 2025 – USA 20 Society for Action in Community Health: Neurodevelopmental Rehabilitation Organisation of the Year 2025 – India 21 Kulan Somali Organisation: Best Community Family Support Programme 2025 – London & Enriching Youth Digital Skills Training Programme of the Year 2025 – London 22 Green Synergy: Best Gardening & Social Therapeutic Horticulture Charity 2025 – East Midlands 23 Artemis Philanthropy Advisory Ltd: Leading Charity Consultant of the Year 2025: Sheila Bailey & Best Philanthropy Advisory NPO 2025 15 9 20
4 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025 Autism Support Charity of the Year 2025 – Canada & Award for International Autism Advocacy & Service 2025 “We work for the community of today and tomorrow. ” Autism Canada was founded in 1976 and stands as a national organisation advocating for autistic individuals across the country, alongside providing resources to those seeking guidance and information. For over four decades, the organisation has been unwavering in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life and wellbeing of those on the autism spectrum, through a combination of robust education, targeted advocacy, and steadfast support. “With each activity we undertake,” said Jamie, “we embody our mission: Autism Canada believes that every autistic person is a valuable part of society and deserves to be treated with dignity that respects their ability to involve themselves in social and civic life. We work towards this goal through our mission to advocate alongside and support individuals on the autism spectrum living in Canada, along with their families and caregivers.” To achieve its mission, Autism Canada takes a multifaceted approach to its operations – participating in discussions surrounding national, provincial, and local policy change; educating Canadians and the wider world on autism; and working to create a safe and inclusive environment through its robust catalogue of training programmes. The organisation goes a step further in its endeavours, aiding organisations in assessing their environments for inclusivity and accessibility compliance by performing site audits and providing feedback to improve the experiences of all neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, dementia, and many more. Alongside this, Autism Canada has also launched a Community Assistance Program, or CAP. Early intervention is vital, and the organisation is working hard to provide access that is otherwise unavailable. The programme will enable Autism Canada to provide subsidies to individuals impacted by long wait lists or financial limitations and currently unable to access crucial services or receive an official diagnosis. Wait times vary across each province, but Autism Canada’s ultimate aim is to relieve the strain Across Canada, individuals on the autism spectrum, along with their families and caregivers, face unique challenges in accessing support, education, and advocacy. Autism Canada stands at the forefront of addressing these needs, working tirelessly to build a more inclusive society through resources, awareness, and direct assistance. With a commitment to empowering autistic individuals and fostering understanding, the organisation plays a vital role in reshaping the national conversation on autism. We caught up with Jamie McCleary below, Executive Director of Autism Canada, as the organisation is named in the Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025.
Autism Support Charity of the Year 2025 – Canada & Award for International Autism Advocacy & Service 2025 on provincial systems and allow individuals and families to access the services they need until they gain access to provincial funding. At its core, Autism Canada is deeply committed to connecting individuals with essential support networks, beyond the realm of financial aid. Each year, its Family Support staff handle thousands of calls, guiding autistic individuals and caregivers toward local resources that empower them to not only manage daily challenges but thrive within their communities. Recognising the equally vital need for specialised advocacy in healthcare settings, Autism Canada has also co-created a guide to help autistic individuals navigate their cancer diagnosis. This resource provides crucial self-advocacy tools, ensuring that those facing one of life’s most difficult challenges can access the care and understanding they deserve. But that’s not all – Autism Canada has developed a literacy programme consisting of more than 30 training modules, from Recognising Behaviours to Inclusivity in Retail Spaces. These courses are designed to change the way autism is viewed, to prevent incidents surrounding health and safety for autistic individuals, and to create a physical environment of acceptance and belonging. The programmes are all developed and primarily taught by Autism Canada’s neurodivergent employees, in conjunction with the autistic community. This allows for first-hand understanding of the illustrated experiences and allows the trainer to engage with the audience in meaningful, knowledgeable, and insightful ways. “We fully embrace the concept: Nothing About Us, Without Us. ” “Autism Canada is unique in that we don’t approach just one aspect of autism in the national sphere,” Jamie explained to us. “It’s not advocacy and policy change or supporting the autistic community – it’s all of it. We go where we are needed and we try very hard to answer to the needs of those individuals, whether it’s creating a guide, developing a literacy programme to educate a new sector, or attending a federal policy meeting. Most people would tell us to limit ourselves, but there is so much work to do, and so many neurodivergent people struggling to live in the country that we can’t pick and choose. We don’t work for the people who will benefit in 20 years, we work for the community of today and tomorrow.” Of course, like any non-profit organisation, Autism Canada faces financial challenges – from inflation and increases to the cost of living lowering the donations it receives, to the number of employees dedicated to its programmes and the costs of national advocacy. The organisation receives no funding outside of grants and serves a population of over 40 million people across 13 provinces and territories, each with their own unique rules and programmes surrounding autism. It maintains few paid staff members, most of whom are covered by grants, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to locate the funding to cover administrative costs and salaries. At present, Autism Canada is facing the unique obstacle of growing to meet the rising demand for its services across the country. This mission must be achieved without new grant sources for additional staff members to cover the expansion, and all donations being directed towards funding programmes such as CAP. Alongside this, Autism Canada has observed that organisations with more connections and larger budgets for advertising consistently attract the most funding, regardless of their ultimate mission. “We will get there,” Jamie told us determinedly. “We are getting there – we just have to find the voice to make ourselves heard, so that we can get the attention we need from the individuals who see that we are out there making a difference, despite these challenges. We are now one of the only national organisations working towards change; our work won’t end any time soon and our passion and dedication are a testament to how far we have come as an organisation, and what we can accomplish with our beliefs.” “We don’t speak on behalf of the community we serve; we are part of the community, and our lives are affected by the policies we are striving to change, right along with those we are speaking with. ” Autism Canada meets each obstacle with resolve and innovation, an approach driven by its exceptional team, who embody everything the organisation stands for. Each member of the team is either neurodivergent or the caregiver of neurodivergent individuals and bring with them a passion and understanding of their work that is unrivalled. Autism Canada is one of the few organisations led by autistic individuals – both its Executive Director and Board Chair are diagnosed autistic – and it is the team’s collective goal to shift the narrative from the limits created by autism to what autistic individuals can achieve. The Autism Canada team may be small, but it is mighty and, though the demand for its services continues to grow rapidly, the team is unwavering in their dedication. Each day, they invest the effort and time required to maintain Autism Canada’s momentum with regard to education and advocacy, demonstrating an admirable, unrivalled commitment to the organisation. This dedication has led to meaningful change across Canada, providing autistic individuals and their families with vital resources, support systems, and advocacy that has earned it the Award for International Autism Advocacy and Service 2025. Looking ahead, Autism Canada is preparing to expand its efforts even further, with ambitious plans for the future that will enhance the reach and impact of its initiatives. One of its most exciting developments is a first-of-its-kind National Support Line, to be launched by the end of 2025. The National Support Line will provide one-on-one support to autistic individuals, as mental health support geared towards the autistic community is, at present, virtually non-existent. This is a unique and vital tool for individuals to provide connection, to talk through a problem, or to just find someone willing to listen to them. Autism Canada is also developing a further list of self-advocacy guides, using the structure of its current guide for navigating a cancer diagnosis. These guides will be developed in cooperation with individuals who have experienced these situations first-hand. Alongside this, the organisation will be launching a Peer Support Programme, allowing autistic individuals the opportunity to connect, develop strategies together, and to develop meaningful relationships with others in shared experiences. At its core, Autism Canada stands as a beacon of advocacy, education, and support, working tirelessly to create a more inclusive and accessible society for autistic individuals and their families. As it looks to the future, the organisation is set to further strengthen its role as a vital resource for the autistic community, ensuring that autistic voices remain at the heart of advocacy. Recognised as Canada’s Autistic Support Charity of the Year 2025, Autism Canada will continue to shape a future where inclusivity, understanding, and empowerment are not just ideals, but realities. Contact: Jamie McCleary Company: Autism Canada Web Address: www.autismcanada.org
6 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025 seasoned business executive with over 25 years of experience spanning compliance, financial advisory, and computer engineering. As the G100 Country Chair for Haiti, she plays a key role in a global coalition of women leaders shaping policy and driving progress across industries and borders. In Haiti’s evolving business landscape, Joanne has been a catalyst for innovation and institutional growth. She spearheaded the creation of the country’s first interconnected credit union platform – developed in partnership with Mastercard – which now serves over two million clients through mobile financial services. Her work is anchored in strong, long-term collaborations across both public and private sectors. Joanne maintains influential relationships with organizations such as the WK Kellogg Foundation, Dunn Family Foundation, Haiti Food Systems Alliance and the Haitian American Chamber of Commerce. Her network includes cross-sector partners and respected thought leaders. Her career is defined not just by innovation, but by the strength of the networks she’s built to drive it, and her track record reflects not only technical expertise, but also the ability to convene diverse stakeholders around bold, sustainable solutions. “As a Haitian woman who built the country’s first interconnected credit union platform, I understand firsthand the barriers that exist, and more importantly, the pathways around them. I founded Bracing Neighbors because I know what’s possible when Haitian women have access to the same opportunities I was able to create for myself. ” – Joanne Alexis Bounouni Born out of a deep commitment to give back to their home country and create real economic pathways for women and youth. Bracing Neighbors was built to do more than serve; it was designed to activate Haiti’s untapped economic potential by bridging local talent with broader market opportunities. At its core is a belief that every woman and young person in Haiti deserves the tools and support to grow beyond local success and achieve meaningful, connected growth. This is a movement rooted in possibility, powered by purpose, and committed to transforming Haiti from within. Investing the whole of Haiti through collaboration-based initiatives, one of Bracing Neighbors’ primary aims is to support emerging entrepreneurs establish successful business ventures, giving them the skills, knowledge, and support they need to thrive in a professional capacity and scale their existing ventures. This stems from the recognition that entrepreneurship is, for many, the best way to secure empowerment and financial independence. “Our organisation was born out of urgency and vision – unlocking intergenerational wealth-building opportunities. Giving another dimension to our nation’s motto Stronger together. ” With the WK Kellog Foundation as a trusted partner, to enact the real change they seek within Haiti, Joanne and her team work at what she described as the “intersection of business strategy, impact investment and community development through behaviour change”, targeting small, female-led enterprises, unemployed youth, and families building economic resilience. Across these focus areas, Bracing Neighbors delivers comprehensive programmes that blend financial literacy and seed funding with mentorship, as well as community accountability mechanisms utilising the likes of the CGAP and women’s economic empowerment (WEE) frameworks. Remarkably, since first opening its doors three years ago, Bracing Neighbors partnered with more than 900 entrepreneurial families, connecting them with networks and opportunities that supported them to scale. These insights all stem from the knowledge, experience, As the world’s first Black republic, Haiti holds a legacy of revolutionary leadership and entrepreneurial brilliance. From the formidable Madan Sara market women to a global diaspora fueling transnational commerce, Haiti’s economic foundation is rooted in innovation, resilience, and community-driven enterprise.” A Best Community Empowerment & Economic Resilience Program 2025 – Haiti
and network that the team behind the organisation have in the private sector, underpinning the effectiveness of these programmes. When it comes to the team at Bracing Neighbors, the team do much more than simply lend their knowledge to these initiatives – they bring a level of dedication that simply can’t be taught. The team here reflect the organisation’s core values of equity, resilience, community, accountability, and courage down to a T, and every person that is a part of this operation – from the field leads through to the board members – is driven by a shared purpose and an unbridled love for the communities they so diligently serve. The internal culture crafted as a result of this ethos is built around the values of trust, shared learning, and boldness. Exploring this in more detail, Joanne told us: “We do not shy away from the complexity of our work, nor do we pretend to have all the answers. We listen actively, cocreate, co-design, make space for local voices, and hold ourselves to high standards of transparency. This culture of collective accountability has allowed us to remain agile and impactful, even in the face of Haiti’s ongoing instability.” One of the primary investment opportunities before Bracing Neighbors involves a shift in its international donor funding, brought about by political instability in countries around the world. Therefore, Bracing Neighbors has restructured its funding model from the ground up, looking inwards to build financing systems driven by community and outcome. Moreover, it has also deepened its collaborations with diaspora networks and its partners in the private sector, ensuring its continued success. In the immediate future, Bracing Neighbors is scaling its national Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Census – which Joanne Best Community Empowerment & Economic Resilience Program 2025 – Haiti a explained is an “unprecedented effort to map and mobilise Haiti’s women-led enterprises” – carried out alongside both GECA and the Haiti Food System Alliance. Encouraging individuals to unlock their entrepreneurial potential, Bracing Neighbors continues to honor the women entrepreneurs of Haiti. As women entrepreneurs have long powered Haiti’s economy, such as the enterprising ‘Madan Sara’ who form the backbone of Haiti’s market systems, Bracing Neighbors acts as a partner to connect others to inspire many. The ‘Madan Sara’ truly demonstrate the sophisticated networks and financial expertise that already exist within communities, and these women manage complex supply chains, extend credit, and coordinate economic activity across urban and rural areas. They represent a proven model of women’s economic leadership that goes back generations. Women in Haiti have high business ownership rates and lead many of the country’s informal market systems. Their networks are complex economic ecosystems with established trust relationships, resource sharing, and mutual support systems. Therefore, Bracing Neighbors exists purely to connect existing networks to broader markets and capital. As for the longer term, this impact investment organisation is aiming to replicate its model to reach more than 4,000 entrepreneurial families across the country, in addition to doubling down on its social impact metrics and catalysing a network of female leaders to shape the future of women’s economic empowerment in Haiti. Finally, plans are in place to expand its behaviour change for development initiatives, as well as community-driven wealth creation delivered by addressing marketing access and local food systems. Reflecting on this well-deserved award in our Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025, Joanne takes the time to recognise the invaluable contribution partnerships have had on the fantastic work that Bracing Neighbors has carried out over the past three years. From local entrepreneurs and grassroots leaders to global funders and those within the Haitian diaspora, this collaborative effort is contributing significantly to the bright future Haiti has ahead of it. Setting the bar for Haitian non-profit organisations, more information about the remarkable programmes Bracing Neighbors operates can be found at the web address below. We urge readers to visit the site and check these out for themselves, and to invest, partner, connect, and nurture a better tomorrow for people across Haiti in the process. Contact Details Contact: Joanne Alexis Bounouni Company: Bracing Neighbors Web Address: https://www.bracingneighbors.org/ https://www.g100.in/about-us/ G100 is an empowered group of 100 women leaders from across the world, leading 100 global wings, supported by G100 He for She champions (Denim Club) and 100 Country Chairs for powerful advocacy, awareness & impact across governments and organisations for a gender equal future.
8 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025 Best Family-Friendly Immersive Outdoor Experience 2025 – UK As winter arrives and the days grow darker, many seek more than just twinkling lights and shopping lists – they crave connection, meaning, and a little bit of magic. This longing has sparked renewed interest in old traditions: tales told by firelight, communal celebrations, and festive rituals to honour nature and folklore. It is this spirit that infuses Wild Rumpus’ Yuletide event, an immersive journey into a winter wonderland at Tatton Park. We took a closer look, below. Contact: Hannah Deane Company: Wild Rumpus CIC – Yuletide Web Address: www.wildrumpus.org.uk & www.yuletide.org.uk Founded in 2009, Wild Rumpus is a collective of artists, curators, and producers delivering meaningful, joyful interactions that empower individuals to explore nature, connection, and play. The not-for-profit organisation creates immersive events for families across the UK, from large moments of collective wonder to intimate digital experiences, inviting each guest to be curious and look at their relationship with nature with clear eyes and open hearts. Wild Rumpus’ work spans the cultural, arts, and heritage sectors, forming partnerships with various organisations to engage audiences in new bold and creative ways. Operating from a rural, creative space in Cheshire, Wild Rumpus hosts artist residencies and networking events that foster connections with nature and help develop artistic practices, with its most notable events and productions being the Just So Festival, The Glittering North at Raby Castle, and The Lanterns at Cheshire Zoo. The organisation exists to deepen people’s connection to nature through creativity and play. Wild Rumpus creates immersive, storyrich worlds where families can step out of the everyday, engage their imaginations, and experience the wellbeing benefits of joyful, shared exploration. At the very core of its work is a response to the climate crisis: Wild Rumpus believes that when children grow up feeling connected to nature, they are more likely to cherish and protect it – both for people and for the planet. Yuletide at Tatton Park was designed, created, and produced by Wild Rumpus for the first time in 2023, and again in 2024. The experience was remarkably successful through both years, attracting 16,000 visitors in 2023 and 18,000 in 2024. Now, plans are underway to continue the exceptional event in 2025, running from November 15th to December 23rd. Located at Tatton Park Gardens, Yuletide invites guests to explore an expansive world of folklore, festive tradition, and ritual – as characters and creatures from beloved winter folklore and myths come to life. A creative take on the tradition of Christmas light trails, the festival is not held by the traditional parameters of Christmas, instead expanding upon them. The Yuletide Gathering is a magical time during the festival, where guests are instructed to grab a hot chocolate and enjoy enchanted stories masterfully told by a traditional storyteller. They can roast marshmallows over the open fire, dance and rejoice to authentic live music and, once ready to relax, can head over to watch the breathtaking fire juggling spectacle. The main event for many at Yuletide, however, is The Glittering Trail. This magnificent trail runs 1km through Tatton Park Gardens, illuminated with enchanting installations, interactive light effects, fantastical puppets, costumed characters, and captivating performances that tell a variety of stories and myths based on thrilling winter folklore. The trail is an incredibly immersive experience for children and adults alike and implores all who walks it to engage with their imagination, creativity, and with nature. This is a truly unique event that provides families with the opportunity to immerse themselves and think beyond the world around them, and the only event of its type available to families at Christmas time. Hailed the UK’s Best Family-Friendly Immersive Outdoor Experience 2025, Wild Rumpus has certainly gained significant attention for its exceptional experiences – reflected in the sheer volume of glowing testimonials left for happy guests eagerly awaiting their return this year. One guest wrote: “I love Tatton Park anyway, but the Yuletide experience was magical. I am so glad we went; it made our Christmas. The staff were incredibly friendly, it wasn’t too over-crowded, and I would highly recommend it. Thank you to everyone involved for your hard work. It was amazing!” And another reported: “We visited the Yuletide experience on a frosty evening as a family. The whole experience was magical! The theatre and music gave a nice festive feel to the experience, as did the roasted marshmallows and fire juggling. The highlight was definitely the illuminated walk through the beautiful grounds, incorporating breathtaking light displays and large, interactive puppets telling different traditional stories. The hot chocolate and mulled wine were also welcome. Well worth the money and definitely recommended!”
Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025, Acquisition International | 9 Leading Sport & Education Community Impact Charity 2025 nited by a firm belief in the power of sport and community to transform lives, Barnsley FC Community Trust delivers services relating to the four primary areas of health, education, participation, and inclusion. Across every activity it runs and every initiative it spearheads, the aim for this charity is to make a real difference and a have a lasting impact. This is reflected through the impressive results it receives, and, in the 2024-25 football season alone, the team delivered more than £16 million worth of social value. This charity’s commitment to creating a community that is healthier, stronger, and more inclusive is nurtured constantly, with the 47-strong team behind the organisation all united under the overarching vision of raising the aspirations and enhancing the lives of those it serves. Given it is a part of Barnsley FC, the charity can leverage the power of this historic club to reach as many people and change as many lives as it can. All of the people at the heart of Barnsley FC Community Trust are local to the area, meaning they have seen first-hand the work that needs to be done to support those living in some of Barnsley’s most deprived areas. To nurture an improved quality of life for people across these communities, the charity runs a diverse range of programmes focusing on the needs of different segments, bolstering its impact in the process. For example, in the case of children and young people, the team here run grassroots sports and holiday clubs, as well as educational programmes designed to help these groups stay active, improve their confidence, develop their skills, and set goals for their future. Barnsley FC Community Trust is supported in the delivery of these activities by partner organisations including the Premier League and the English Football League, seen through programmes such as Premier League Kicks. When it comes to young adults, those between 16 and 19 years of age, Barnsley FC Community Trust delivers support in the form of educational pathways to brighter futures, including the likes of Level 2 and 3 courses and foundation degrees within fields such as sports coaching and development. These initiatives help young people to gain invaluable qualifications, improve their prospects, and boost employability skills. Alongside its work with children and young adults, Barnsley FC Community Trust is also a firm believer in offering support to adults suffering with their physical or mental health. To do so, the team run programmes inclusive of exercise sessions and mental health-based initiatives, as well as providing a host of opportunities to reduce social isolation, the latter of which is especially important for older adults. “We run activities like walking football and social groups aimed at keeping older adults active, socially connected, and engaged with their community. ” Beyond this, the team behind Barnsley FC Community Trust are equally passionate about inclusion, especially when it comes to sport. Driving this, they are proud to offer accessible sports, education, and local activities for individuals with additional educational needs and disabilities. Across these sessions, the main focus is on fostering a sense of belonging, as well as promoting confidence and general wellbeing. Finally, Barnsley FC Community Trust works closely with local schools through programmes such as Premier League Primary Stars – which combines sport and learning to empower students and allow them to thrive both inside and outside the classroom environment – and provides a slew of volunteering opportunities for those within the borough looking to give back, develop new skills, and support the delivery of these initiatives. Across this unrivalled suite of charitable services, Barnsley FC Community Trust offers something for everyone within the Barnsley area. Its reach is exceeded only by its impact and be it through the 99% retention rate on its post-16 education programme, the more than 80 sessions it delivers per week, or the 186 player appearances it provided across the 2024/25 season – breaking its previous record – the charity is transforming lives. More information on Barnsley FC Community Trust or any of the programmes mentioned above can be found using the link below. Contact: community@barnsleyfc.co.uk Company: Barnsley FC Community Trust Web Address: https://barnsleyfccommunity.co.uk/ Barnsley FC Community Trust is the charitable arm of Barnsley FC and a registered charity determined to make a real difference across its local community. The team here work incessantly to deliver a range of charitable and community-driven activities and initiatives throughout the wider borough, with their extensive reach seeing anywhere between 10,000 and 15,000 beneficiaries engaged with every season – from two-yearolds to 100-year-olds and everyone in between. U
10 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025 AIM-May25097 Best Regional Healthcare Support Initiative 2025 – Manitoba hen John E. Harrison, Edward Shultz, Kenneth Bicknell, and Myron Magee devised the BRHC Foundation more than four decades ago, they could have only hoped it would have the tremendous impact that it has across both the Brandon Regional Health Centre itself as well as the wider community. From the date the Foundation officially received its Royal Assent, July 9th of 1980, it has worked tirelessly to receive donations, hold funds in perpetuity, and distribute these investments in the form of grants. Just some of the campaigns spearheaded as a result of both the Foundation’s foresight and the generosity of communities across Manitoba and beyond include “A Bed for you…Bed for me”, a campaign that saw 242 hospital beds purchased for the BHRC’s inpatient areas; “Westman Cares”, , the “Room for Renewal” campaign that raised funds to help create, renovate, and rejuvenate inpatient care areas, and the “Sense of Home” campaign to raise funds for the construction of the Murray House, a much-needed residence for patients and their families to stay while undergoing radiation and chemotherapy at the Western Manitoba Cancer Centre. One of the most recent campaigns designed by the BRHC Foundation is “A Foundation for Care”, which has been developed to support the expansion of the BRHC currently underway. It is aiming to raise $4M, funds which will go towards the new critical-care building, purchasing necessary medical equipment, and adding more floor space to support future expansions. Thanks to this support, it is estimated that patients will first be arriving at these new areas sometime during 2026. Behind all of these successful campaigns is a series of signature events, many of which are held on an annual basis by the BRHC Foundation. Favourite amongst them are the Gala Dinner and Dance, the Spring and Tree of Lights newsletter campaigns, and its Pancake Breakfast. Outside of these flagships, other events operated over the years include the likes of fashion and craft shows, formal lunches, and even a Vegas-themed night. Alongside these, the BRHC Foundation is excited to have recently delivered its first Thrive Conference, a half-day event dedicated to both supporting and inspiring public and private healthcare workers in the region. In a landscape that has become increasingly complex, this event was a great way for health professionals – from chiropractors and mental health support workers to hospital staff – to connect. Over the course of this enriching afternoon (which was held on May 8th), visitors were afforded talks from keynote speakers detailing how to overcome common obstacles faced in healthcare, how to rediscover their professional passion, and even ways to foster a positive and resilient culture within their teams. Resource booths only added to these insights, and the array of networking opportunities present all afternoon made it easier than ever for like-minded professionals to build a mutually supportive community. Moreover, all proceeds from the Thrive Conference went directly to the aforementioned “A Foundation for Care” campaign, supporting the development of the BRHC’s critical-care building and the provision of essential equipment and infrastructure. Thrive Conference was so successful this year that the BRHC Foundation has started working on the 2026 iteration of the event, which is sure to be equally spectacular. Ultimately, the difference that the Foundation has made over the past 45 years is immeasurable, with almost $1.5M in equipment and programme support being delivered to the Brandon Regional Health Centre in the 2023-2024 fiscal year alone. All of this has only been made possible with the generous support of donors, which is essential in helping this non-profit to continue achieving its ambitious aims. This is something Stacy Senkbeil, the chairperson of the board at the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation, touched on in her message: “Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us fund essential medical equipment, and expand critical programs that save lives and promote wellness in our community. Together, we can ensure that our hospital remains a beacon of hope and healing for everyone who relies on us.” Contact: Jessica Saler Company: BRHC Foundation Web Address: https://www.brhcfoundation.ca/ The Brandon Regional Health Centre (BRHC) Foundation was established in 1980, set up by a group of forward-looking members of the namesake hospital’s board. It was the aim of these individuals to establish a registered charity that could procure funds, funds which could then be used benefit the thousands of people served every year by the hospital. Over the last 45 years, the Foundation has evolved considerably, with its most recent mission being to raise and steward funds to enhance care and community impact at the Brandon Regional Health Centre, through our partnerships within the community. W
Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025, Acquisition International | 11 As well as the Committee, Peter can tap into a worldwide network of researchers, activists and professionals working day to day to further the cause of assisted dying. This body of knowledge greatly assists him in his role. The combination of knowledge and expertise within these ranks is the organization’s greatest strength, standing it in good stead as it continues to grow. Peter added, “I was very fortunate that I took over the role of Executive Director of the Federation at a time when it had benefited from many years of growing professionalism under the guidance of my immediate predecessor, Dr Rob Jonquiere. His vision for the Federation was that it should be the premier international resource for clear and factual information around voluntary assisted dying. This had already started to pay dividends, with an increasing membership and growing international reputation. As a doctor and native of the Netherlands, Rob brought unparalleled medical expertise to the role. I come from a political and activist background, which I believe is what the Federation now needs as it pushes on its global work.” As with almost every NPO, funding is a significant issue for the WFRtDS, which tempers its expansion plans. Nevertheless, the organisation is careful about how it manages its budget, and key to its financial stability is that it does not own any buildings or offices, which would be an impractical expense given its global reach. However, this, of course, comes with its challenges as members do need to be kept informed and remain connected through digital channels. Despite these issues, the WFRtDS remains committed to doing more in the name of assisted dying around the world. For example, it is currently working to establish itself as an international NGO, and having discussed this for several years, it is exciting to see real progress being made. This project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Additionally, Peter told us, “We are also doing a full audit of our web presence. Our website should be both a shop front and a library, a goto resource for both our members and anyone interested in learning more about the work that we do, as well as the work that all our member societies undertake.” Ultimately, as these and other projects come to fruition, the World Federation of Right to Die Societies will continue to go from strength to strength, rallying people around its cause and having an impact on a global scale. Contact: Peter Warren Organisation: World Federation of Right to Die Societies Web address: https://wfrtds.org/ Most Influential End-of-Life Rights Advocates 2025 The debate surrounding end-of-life rights continues to spark passionate discussions worldwide. Countries that have passed legislation have done so with their own sets of rules and regulations around what is and isn’t permissible when it comes to helping those requesting an assisted death. The World Federation of Right to Die Societies (WFRtDS) believes that everyone, regardless of where they live, should have the right to die peacefully, with dignity and without suffering. We caught up with their Executive Director, Peter Warren, currently their only paid employee, to find out more about the work of the Federation. Regardless of whether someone supports Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) as a fundamental human right, or not, death is unavoidable. Around the world, beliefs are shifting on what constitutes a good death, with more people looking to have autonomy over the timing and manner of their death. The WFRtDS is clear in its belief that every single person who is capable of appreciating the consequences of their actions should, as a fundamental human right, be entitled to have the option of a peaceful death at a time of their choosing. Through its advocacy and education work, the Federation envisions a world where all people, regardless of nationality, job, religion or any other factor, are free to make their well-considered end of life decisions – whilst reflecting on the reasonable interests of others - in a safe, controlled environment, supported by the law. The Federation is continually working to inform the assisted dying debate in as many ways as it can. It seeks to distribute up-to-date information and educational materials to individuals and groups whenever asked. It responds to media requests worldwide. It also co-hosts a major international conference every two years—the most recent of which was held in Dublin in September 2024. The next one is already scheduled to take place in Tokyo, Japan, at the end of November 2026. These conferences are an invaluable source of support and knowledge building, bringing together world-renowned medical, legal, and end-oflife advocacy professionals for an intense week of knowledge exchange. These meetings always energise World Federation members, and they are particularly beneficial for societies representing countries that have still to enact voluntary assisted dying legislation. This work, which is impressive in scope, is carried out by a small team, of which Peter Warren is currently the only paid employee. However, he is backed up by an impressive Committee, whose members are elected during the WFRtDS biennial conference. The Committee has a global presence, and its current President is from Mexico, the Treasurer from Switzerland, and the Secretary from Australia. Other members of the Board are from Japan and Norway. World Federation of Right to Die Societies
12 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025 Best Addiction Recovery Training Charity 2025 – UK Addiction is something that touches us all, whether through ourselves or somebody close to us. Despite this, addiction is perhaps the single most stigmatised issue in society today, more so than any other mental health condition. Through its work, UK SMART Recovery, a Londonbased charity, aims to help people with addiction to return balance to their lives, as well as to a recognise how substances like alcohol can easily go from stress relievers to problematic. We had the pleasure of speaking with Dr Charlie Orton, the charity’s chief executive, for more on this topic. Contact: Dr Charlie Orton PhD Company: UK SMART Recovery Web Address: https://smartrecovery.org.uk/ The namesake SMART Recovery programmes delivered by UK SMART Recovery are designed to help people overcome problematic behaviours of any kind, from more ‘typical’ addictions such as alcohol and gambling to the ones people are perhaps less aware of, such as shopping, exercise, or pornography. The charity’s four-point, evidence-based programme trains and supports through stages including building and maintaining motivation, coping with urges and cravings, and managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. UK SMART Recovery’s programme can be accessed individually by anyone aged 13 and above, and it can be used either holistically or tools can be taken from it and used to support people through brief periods of intervention. People can either refer themselves to a programme or be referred by a friend or family member. Across the board, it is estimated that over 5,000 individuals access a SMART Recovery programme every week. Aside from this, UK SMART Recovery is especially proud of is its work in the business sector. As Charlie explains: “Employees are trained as balanced-life champions to increase knowledge and awareness in the workplace and provide a supportive, confidential ear to anyone who may be struggling. This is the next step of mental health awareness in the workplace – to become recovery aware.” Such an incentive is also beneficial for employers, as it signals an open culture around the likes of stress and burnout. “We help business owners empower their workforces to adopt the philosophy of a balanced life. It is not always about addiction per se, it is often a burnout issue and about making the right choices. This includes the classic work-life balance and the pitfalls of the ‘work hard, play hard’ approach. ” The delivery of the services mentioned above is only made possible by the team at the heart of this charity, which comprises 12 employed staff, 140 of its own volunteers, and an additional 300 partner volunteers trained as SMART Facilitators. UK SMART Recovery’s employees in particular take on a tremendous amount of work, from ensuring volunteers have the support they need to bringing in new business. Despite the unfaltering dedication of its team and the high calibre of its work, UK SMART Recovery unfortunately struggles to receive public donations, as very few people want to pin their name to the addiction-support mast. This makes it difficult for this NPO to raise money in the way traditional charities do, with most of its funds coming from the businesses that commission its programmes. Only through this can enough be raised for the team to provide their services to the recovery community free of charge. On the back of these funding difficulties, UK SMART Recovery has started to diversify its income in other ways, creating bespoke partnerships to meet the needs of those that choose to partner with it. Charlie told us: “NPOs have to adapt and overcome all the time, all whilst operating within the confines of tight margins and achieving financial stability. We do this by adapting to the emerging markets around us, keeping our costs low, and offering relevant, highly adaptive training that makes a difference. “If we are static, we will not survive. Progress and pushing forwards is the only way. ” In the name of progress, UK SMART Recovery is currently in the midst of a digital transformation, which will include a new website and CRM. Not only will this improve the experiences of its participants, partners, and volunteers, but it will also allow the charity to better manage communications, stakeholders, and campaigns. The charity’s board – which is made up entirely of volunteers – is also looking to add new trustees, and the organisation is even launching a new workplace awareness course. From overcoming addiction to managing burnout, UK SMART Recovery sees people from all walks of life guided towards the life balance that keeps them happy and healthy. More information about the charity, including how to donate, can be found using the link below.
Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025, Acquisition International | 13 Global Humanitarian Impact Champions of the Year 2025 & Non-Profit Dedication & Integrity Excellence Award 2025 s we shine a spotlight on those who give without asking, build without seeking fame, and serve without pause, we’re proud to introduce Revive Hope Africa. It is a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit organisation based in Canada, where it is deeply dedicated to supporting refugees by engaging with co-sponsors (often the family or friends of refugees) and facilitating sponsorship under the country’s Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) Program. Acclaimed and accredited community sponsors, the team here guide co-sponsors across every stage of the process, delivering vital settlement and integration support to refugees from the moment they arrive and for a long while afterwards. “These efforts aim to foster self-sufficiency, promote understanding of Canadian society, and help refugees rebuild their lives in a safe and welcoming environment.” This reflects Canada’s wider humanitarian commitment, a country-wide initiative that sees refugees provided with both a fresh start and a brighter future. In Ethiopia, which is currently the only African nation the organisation is able to operate in due to its limited resources, Revive Hope spearheads a charitable initiative that sees it work towards alleviating extreme child poverty in one of the world’s poorest countries. Alongside local, community-based volunteer groups, Revive Hope works in rural areas and provides children with financial support for such vital resources as nutritious meals and school supplies. This expertly designed programme has been implemented to not only serve the immediate needs of children in poverty, but also to provide them with a solid foundation to nurture positive, long-term change in their lives. Key to this is breaking the cycle of poverty and helping these individuals to build better futures for themselves and their communities alike. “With the unwavering support of our dedicated volunteer team, the generosity of our donors, and the passion and talent of our Youth Wing, we are collectively shaping a brighter future for these young lives. ” Revive Hope’s commitment to these areas is reflected in its mission statement, a dual pledge to fight against extreme child poverty and support the reunification and settlement of refugees in Canada. Both of these efforts align with such principles as compassion, social justice, and human dignity, values that are incredibly close to the hearts of the organisation’s founders, directors, The Youth Wing, and the rest of the dedicated team here. Working tirelessly towards this noble cause, Revive Hope is hindered in its mission only by the difficulty of securing funding. The need for its support is off the scale, as millions of poverty-stricken children and young people in Ethiopia lack access to the basic necessities required to live a happy and healthy life. Due to financial constraints, the charity is forced to work exclusively through volunteers, but it one day aims to achieve the adequate funding necessary to build a compensated and sustainable workforce. Should it reach this target, Revive Hope will be able to enhance its impact through initiatives including hiring dedicated project coordinators for countries across Africa, employing fundraising and grant-writing experts to secure financial support for a multitude of projects, and hiring a staffing team to focus exclusively on refugees in Canada. Until it hits this goal and implements these projects, Revive Hope will not rest, and it is this level of passion and dedication that has resulted in the organisation reaching a number of impressive milestones in the eight years since it first opened its doors. For example, the team now operate in seven different regions across Ethiopia, adjusting the level of aid they provide based on local need. It has also grown from supporting just 12 children in 2017 to hundreds as of last year, and this is only the beginning. Similarly, in Canada, Revive Hope has sponsored more than 170 refugees since 2021, affording them all its comprehensive settlement services whilst also addressing gaps in the PSR Program. By helping refuges overcome the hurdles relating to the likes of housing, education, and employment, the team ensure the smoothest possible integration. Ultimately, Revive Hope Africa’s impact is clear, and for its work in transforming lives through the power of education and refugee support – all whilst remaining an independent, volunteer-led organisation – this nonprofit is more than fitting of these awards and a place in this programme. Contact: https://www.revivehope.org/contact-us Company: Revive Hope Africa Web Address: https://www.revivehope.org/ On a mission to help children and their families thrive, Revive Hope Africa does exactly as its name suggests – empowering those living in poverty and with limited access to education through the provision of the tools they need to aspire towards a better future for themselves. Working locally with refugees in its home country of Canada and on the ground in Ethiopia through local volunteer groups, the impact this non-profit has is truly transformative. Revive Hope’s founder and president was on hand for more. A Revive Hope Africa
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