Kamloops Youth Receives Tidbits of Change Award for Hospice Fundraising Initiative

The Tidbits of Change Foundation will present its annual award and youth bursary to Cassie McNutt of Kamloops on February 20th at the Delta Hotel Kamloops, recognizing her significant contributions to her community through a charity initiative developed with her parents. The foundation annually selects three Canadian youth who partner with a parent or mentor on projects showing initiative, leadership, and community impact, providing bursaries ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support their education.

McNutt is being honored for launching and expanding Cassie's Charity Drive, an annual fundraiser supporting the Kamloops Hospice Society that originated from a clothing drive connected to a Christmas light display she created with her father. "Every year we hear from young Canadians doing remarkable things alongside a parent or mentor," said Hali ScottSmith, co-founder of the foundation. "The projects are inspiring, and they often have a meaningful impact on their communities."

Over the past four years, McNutt's fundraising efforts have generated more than $260,000 for hospice services, demonstrating the substantial impact youth-led initiatives can achieve with proper support and mentorship. Her work has also received national recognition, earning her the King Charles III Coronation Medal and making her one of the youngest recipients in Canada. "Our bursary selection committee was impressed by Cassie's initiative and commitment," said Greg Scott, co-founder of the Tidbits of Change Foundation. "She identified a need in her community and, with the support of her parents, turned that idea into a sustained effort that has grown year after year."

The recognition highlights the importance of mentorship-driven collaboration between youth and adults in addressing community needs and creating lasting social impact. The Tidbits of Change Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 youth bursaries through April 30th, with more information available at https://tidbitsofchange.org. This award demonstrates how supporting youth initiatives can lead to significant community benefits while developing leadership skills in young Canadians.