TORONTO, April 2, 2026 /CNW/ - Children's Aid Foundation of Canada (CAFC) is proud to announce that Blake Hutcheson, President & CEO of OMERS, and Keith Pelley, President & CEO of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), will serve as Co-Chairs of the 40th Children's Aid Foundation of Canada Gala – Teddy Bear Affair, one of Toronto's most celebrated and enduring fundraising events.

Now in its 40th year, the Teddy Bear Affair reflects a legacy of community generosity and collective action. Since 1986, the Gala has raised more than $40 million to support children and youth in and from care - many of whom have experienced trauma, instability, and disrupted pathways to education and opportunity. Together with our donors and partners, we are helping them build the skills, connections, and confidence needed for independent futures - while investing in solutions that create lasting change.

"We are honoured to welcome Blake Hutcheson and Keith Pelley as Co-Chairs of this milestone 40th Gala," said Jeffrey Schiffer, President and CEO of Children's Aid Foundation of Canada. "At a time when the future is being shaped by rapid change, this work has never been more important. Their leadership and shared commitment to community will elevate this year's event and ensure we continue to raise critical funds to expand opportunity and improve outcomes for children, youth, and families involved in the child welfare system in ways that build a stronger Canada."

That shared sense of purpose is reflected by this year's Gala Co-Chairs.

"It's an honour to serve as Co-Chair of this year's milestone Gala. For four decades, this event has brought together an extraordinary community of donors, partners, and volunteers who believe that every child and young person deserves the opportunity to thrive," said Mr. Hutcheson. "CAFC plays a vital role in supporting youth and families impacted by the child welfare system across the country, and I'm proud to help champion that work. I hope many will join us in celebrating this remarkable legacy and investing in the bright futures of the young people the Foundation serves."

"The Teddy Bear Affair is more than a Gala, it's an expression of what can happen when a community comes together with purpose," said Mr. Pelley. "As we celebrate 40 years of impact, we're also looking ahead to the opportunities we can create for children and youth in and from care. These young people demonstrate extraordinary resilience and determination, and through the generosity of donors and partners, CAFC helps them access education and employment, build community, and heal so they can reach their full potential. I'm excited to be part of this year's celebration and invite others to join us in supporting this important work."

This year's milestone Gala will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto, hosted by award-winning business journalist and podcaster Amanda Lang, a CAFC Board member.

Guided by the theme Powering Canada's Future, the evening will reflect a defining moment for philanthropy, bringing together leaders and supporters from across Canada to invest in the next generation and ensure no young person is left behind. Inspired by the power, beauty, and wonder of the Northern Lights, the experience will celebrate possibility, connection, and collective impact. Guests will enjoy a vibrant cocktail reception, live entertainment, immersive experiences, exceptional cuisine, and powerful stories that showcase the impact of CAFC's work.

Join us in celebrating 40 years of generosity, community, and possibility. Proceeds from the Gala will help ensure that children and youth involved with the child welfare system have the opportunities, support, and resources they need to thrive, and to help shape the future of our country. More information is available at cafdn.org/gala.

About Children's Aid Foundation of Canada

Children's Aid Foundation of Canada is our country's leading foundation dedicated to improving the lives of children, youth, and families involved in the child welfare system.

With our donors, child-protection agencies, community organizations, and lived experts, we remove barriers that limit children and youth's potential and improve their outcomes by providing access to resources that help them succeed and thrive.

SOURCE Children's Aid Foundation of Canada