The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Ontario Endowment Fund, also known as The Hermant Legacy Fund, was created to honour our long-standing Executive Director, Jill Hermant.  She started working for the Award in 1993 and inspired countless young people over the years.  Jill retired in 2015 after 23 years of outstanding leadership and dedication. As a tribute to her impact in Ontario, we have established a permanent Endowment Fund. The proceeds from this Fund will be dedicated to maintaining and growing our program across the province and ensuring that it remains accessible to all youth regardless of any socio-economic barriers.

The Duke of Ed Award believes that not all learning happens in the classroom and our aim is to help equip young Canadians aged 14-24 for success in life.  By recognizing all of the amazing things young people can do and learn outside of the boundaries of formal education, the Award empowers them to discover hidden talents, develop untapped leadership potential, make a difference in their community and explore the wonders of the great outdoors.

The personal journey to earn the Award requires young people to look beyond their comfort zone and tap into their sense of discovery.  Participants set and achieve personal goals in activities they want to experience and develop, making each Award a unique journey.  Simply put, they design a blueprint to transform their lives and we support them each step of the way.

This Fund will ensure that our program remains barrier-free and all youth have the opportunity to participate. For more information please visit: http://www.dukeofed.org/on/division-home-

To enable the Donor Advisor to properly recognize donors for their contributions, Toronto Foundation will share your contact information and donation amount with the Donor Advisor unless you have checked the anonymous box on the donation form.