OMERS CEO Blake Hutcheson to Co-Chair 40th Children’s Aid Gala
April 16, 2026
40 years ago, the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada (CAFC) held its first Teddy Bear Affair, to support children and youth in and from care—many of whom have experienced trauma, instability, and disrupted pathways to education and opportunity. In that time, the Gala has raised more than $40 million to help young people in the child welfare system overcome barriers they did not choose and build skills, connections and confidence to shape their own futures. In the process, it has become one of Toronto’s most celebrated and enduring fundraising events.
As the CAFC prepares to host its 40th anniversary event on October 3, 2026, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto, it was announced in early April that OMERS President & CEO Blake Hutcheson will serve as Co-Chair of the event, alongside Keith Pelley, President & CEO of OMERS Investment Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment.
Says Blake, “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. 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 Keith 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.”
Inspired by the power, beauty, and wonder of the Northern Lights, this year’s theme is Powering Canada’s Future and serves as an opportunity to harness the power of philanthropy and a collective commitment to ensuring children and youth have everything they need to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. Philanthropists, business leaders and community champions from across Canada are coming together to invest in the next generation and ensure no young person is left behind.
You can learn more about the event here.