What "In support of" means
Community fundraisers are independent, donor‑hosted activities created in support of the Trans Canada Trail. That means:
- You are the organizer of your fundraiser or event.
- Trans Canada Trail does not plan, manage, supervise or insure your activity.
- Funds raised support Trans Canada Trail's mission and the Trail's care, connection and community impact across Canada.
Your fundraiser is personal and self-directed, while the impact is shared across Canada.
What you can do
You’re encouraged to make your fundraiser meaningful and your own. You can:
- Plan and host an event, challenge or activity that reflects what matters to you.
- Choose your own format, location, timeline and fundraising goal.
- Invite friends, family, workplaces, schools or your community to participate.
- Share your fundraiser through email, social media, posters, group chats or word of mouth.
- Use approved graphics, templates and messaging from the Fundraising Toolkit.
- Describe your fundraiser as “in support of the Trans Canada Trail.”
What you cannot do
To protect participants, donors, and the organization, please do not:
- Present your fundraiser as hosted, organized or sponsored by Trans Canada Trail.
- Imply that Trans Canada Trail is managing, supervising or co‑hosting your event.
- Collect donations outside the official fundraising platform.
- Use Trans Canada Trail’s charitable registration number on your materials.
- Solicit sponsors or partners on behalf of Trans Canada Trail.
- Run high‑risk or unsafe activities or activities that don't align with the values of Trans Canada Trail (see Values Alignment below)
- Hold sales, lotteries or gaming activities without legally required permits.
Using the Trans Canada Trail brand
To keep things clear and consistent for everyone:
- Always describe your fundraiser as “in support of Trans Canada Trail.”
- Use only approved logos, graphics and templates provided in the Fundraising Toolkit.
- Make sure any messaging about the Trail is accurate and reflects its national scope and purpose.
- Avoid creating materials that look like official Trans Canada Trail campaigns or promotions.
Clear, consistent brand use helps protect the Trail and builds trust with donors.
Values Alignment
Our values policy ensures all fundraisers in support of Trans Canada Trail aligns with our values, protect our reputation and uphold responsible stewardship of the Trail and our brand. Our values are:
- Stewardship – Protecting and respecting the land, waterways and communities connected by the Trail.
- Inclusion & Accessibility – Creating welcoming, safe and accessible experiences for all.
- Integrity & Transparency – Acting ethically and communicating clearly.
- Collaboration & Community – Strengthening relationships across diverse communities.
- Reconciliation & Respect – Honouring Indigenous Peoples and lands across Canada.
TCT reserves the right to decline or withdraw support from activities that do not align with our mission or values.
Financial handling and donations
To keep fundraising secure, transparent and consistent:
- Funds raised through the platform go directly to Trans Canada Trail.
- Eligible donation receipts are issued by Trans Canada Trail.
- Any costs or expenses related to your fundraiser are your responsibility and cannot be reimbursed.
Use the platform to collect donations when possible to ensures donations are processed securely and reach the Trail efficiently.
Safety, liability and responsibility
You are responsible for planning and running your fundraiser safely, including:
- Selecting a safe activity, route, or venue.
- Following all local laws, bylaws, and permit requirements.
- Making sure participants understand what to expect and how to prepare.
- Providing appropriate supervision for children or group activities.
- Securing insurance if required by your venue or event type.
Trans Canada Trail cannot assume liability for your event participants or event.
Accessibility and inclusion
The Trail is for everyone — and your fundraiser can be too. When possible:
- Choose activities or venues that welcome a wide range of participants.
- Share clear accessibility information with participants.
- Be mindful of different abilities, ages and comfort levels.
Small choices can help more people feel included.
