Get Involved
Student Leaders
Driving Change by Creating Health That Lasts a Lifetime
Compassion, energy, a desire to make a positive impact — they are at the heart of every student who wants to help children born with cleft lip and cleft palate. While our approach to student engagement has evolved, the spirit of leadership remains as strong as ever.
Join Us in Delivering Smiles Around the World
Are you passionate about making a difference? At Operation Smile Canada, we believe that young leaders like you have the power to change the world. While our approach to student involvement has evolved over the years, there are still many ways for you to get involved and support children in need of safe, life-changing cleft surgeries and complete care.
Fundraising for a Cause That Matters
Your passion can help us bring smiles to children across the globe. Whether you’re leading a fundraising initiative, organizing an awareness event, or simply spreading awareness, you play an essential role in helping us provide critical medical care to those in need.
Why Get Involved?
Many students across Canada have made a lasting impact by supporting our mission through fundraising efforts. Their stories of dedication and compassion inspire us, and we hope they’ll inspire you too.
Together, we build hope for children living with cleft conditions and their families.
What kind of fundraising activities can I do?
We have many engaging ideas! Bake sales, dress down days, exam survival kits, candy-gram sales, teacher vs. Student dodgeball, etc. There are many ways to have fun while fundraising! We are here to help if you need more fundraising ideas.
Can I fundraise with friends or as a group?
Absolutely! Fundraising is a great way to bring communities together. You can collaborate with family members, classmates or community groups to amplify your impact.
Can I run a fundraiser at my school?
Yes, with your school's permission! Always ensure you have the support of the principal or teacher to ensure you are following the rules unique to your school.
Can I collaborate with local businesses or community groups?
Absolutely! Partnering with local businesses or community groups is a great way to expand your reach. Many organizations are happy to support student-led initiatives through sponsorship, donations, or by helping promote your fundraiser.
Is there a minimum or maximum amount I need to raise?
There is no fundraising minimum, however we encourage you to aim for a minimum of $240 — which gives access to surgery and complete care for a child born with a cleft condition.
How do I collect and submit donations?
There are three ways to submit donations:
204-375 University Avenue, Toronto ON, M5G 2J5
Note: We do not recommend sending cash in the mail.
Will donors receive tax receipts?
Please review our tax receipting guidelines to learn about eligibility.
Are there online fundraising options available?
Yes! You can start an individual or team fundraising page. Please click here to learn more.
Can I fundraise year-round or only at certain times?
You can fundraise year-round! Operation Smile provides care to patients and their families throughout the year.
Are there campaigns or moments during the year I can connect my fundraiser to?
There are several National holidays and moments throughout the year. Here are a few ideas to help kick start your creativity:
You might also choose a day that is special to you: an anniversary, your birthday or any other milestone you want to celebrate.
What impact does my fundraising have on patients?
Every dollar raised will support life changing care for children born with cleft conditions, helping them to speak, eat and smile with confidence. Your efforts and dedication to our patients build hope for families — an endless gift that transcends a lifetime!
Do I receive anything if I fundraise?
In addition to knowing that you are helping to change the lives of children around the world, you will receive a certificate you can proudly hang in your school or on the fridge from our Chief Smile Officer, Mark! Connect with us at [email protected] to share your fundraiser success and receive your certificate.
Do I need to report the funds I raise?
Yes! If you are raising funds offline, we kindly ask that you let us know how much was raised by reaching us at [email protected]. If you are raising funds through your fundraising page, we will be notified automatically.
What should I do after my fundraiser is complete?
Congratulations, and thank you for your dedication to our patients!
We ask that you:
And if you are posting to social media, be sure to tag us @OperationSmileCanada, so we can celebrate with you!
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need any support please email us at [email protected]
or call us at (647) 696-0600 or toll free at 1-844-376-4530.