On October 1, 2025, Volunteer Toronto is thrilled to release our new inspirational Civic Spark Zine—an impact report capturing data, photos and stories from 35 neighbourhood projects delivered by groups of local volunteers in 2024.

Be inspired and access the Zine today!

In 2024, 35 groups led by volunteers received $1,000 to deliver a project that increased civic engagement through Volunteer Toronto and the Toronto Foundation’s pilot microgrant program. The new Civic Spark Zine highlights the success of this pilot in increasing volunteerism, reducing social isolation, and fostering community participation.

Impact data featured in the Zine includes: 

• 270+ applications received from community volunteers to run a project
• 35 projects funded and delivered by volunteers across Toronto
• 210+ volunteers involved in delivering the projects
• 3,609+ neighbours engaged through the projects, most significantly connecting Torontonians that identify as seniors, youth and newcomers
• 93% reported the projects helped people make new friends
• 42% indicated they strengthened community trust
• + new data on the return on investment for volunteer-run projects, as supported by TD Mindpower’s analytics team

Plus, read 35 stories in the Zine—one for each project delivered—describing how they connected Torononians in six different ways:

• Sports and recreation (6 projects)
• Arts, crafts and performances (9 projects)
• Food-based events (7 projects)
• Gardening initiatives and land stewardship (4 projects)
• Learning opportunities (4 projects)
• And community celebrations (5 projects)

“These events are an investment into our city and in our future wellbeing.”

—Organizer, Sustainable Junction Triangle

“I hope you guys have this thing every year!”

—Participant, We Produce Fresh Food 

“Not very much money can have such a huge impact.”

—Organizer, Connections50

“Everyone left feeling full – physically and emotionally.”

—Organizer, Odo Woman

“In essence, our workshop is not just about creating art; it's about fostering a community where participants can connect, share, and thrive together.”

—Organizer, Colective Bandita Latina

“I don’t feel alone as much as I did. If I have a problem, I have someone I can talk to.”

—Participant, Sistaz in Sound 

“We are learning how to live in this part of the city. It doesn’t matter what country you are from; we all want to come together for the community.”

—Organizer, Latinas Unidas en Accion

“COVID-19 really left a bad dent on our community and our ability to get together to socialize. Without community events, there is less trust with neighbours. We want the ability to help each other when things happen.”

—Organizer, Sunrise Tower Seniors

“This is the best day in Canada for me – this is what I expect from Canada in welcoming newcomers.”

—Participant, Taylor Massey Residents Wellness Council (TMRWC)

Volunteer Toronto would like to thank the Toronto Foundation for making the microgrant program possible and for their partnership and mentorship in delivering this pilot in 2024. We look forward to continuing the work of sparking civic engagement and reducing social isolation through volunteerism.