TORONTO — Today, the David Suzuki Foundation announced the 15 finalists for the first-ever Future Ground Prize in Ontario, presented by Desjardins and supported by Nature’s Way. Of 135 submissions, the finalists represent some of the most effective and inspiring projects in Ontario working to build a green and just future.

“From climate activism and plastic waste cleanup projects to planting pollinator pathways and supporting Indigenous farming, the quality and quantity of Ontario initiatives making positive environmental and social impacts in their communities from the ground up overwhelmed us,” David Suzuki Foundation associate director of engagement and mobilization Megan Hooft said.

The contest includes three award categories with a Grand Prize of $5,000 and the opportunity to meet David Suzuki virtually. Voting for the People’s Choice and Youth Prizes takes place from June 1 to 15, when voters can choose their favourite change-makers in both prize categories. The Grand Prize winner will be determined on June 15 by a jury of renowned Canadian influencers.

“In many ways, the true spirit of environmental activism is best demonstrated at the grassroots level,” said Geoff Wills, vice-president of marketing for Nature’s Way. “It’s so inspiring to see the activities this community-driven program will support. Little things add up to big impacts.”

The Future Ground Prize winners will be announced at a virtual event on June 16, where they will also present their projects to David Suzuki and receive their prize from Desjardins.

“Our desire to contribute to improving the economic and social well-being of people and communities is reflected in our commitments and our contribution to the development of a sustainable and responsible economy. We’re proud to highlight and celebrate those who are taking concrete action for our transition efforts through the inaugural Future Ground Prize in Ontario,” said Pauline D’Amboise, vice-president of governance and sustainable development, and secretary general of Desjardins Group, when the Future Ground Prize launched.

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2021 Future Ground Prize finalists

Grand Prize finalists:

  1. Ajashki - means soil in Algonquin language (Ottawa, Ontario)
  2. Ohneganos Let’s Talk Water (Six Nations of the Grand River, Ontario)
  3. Small Homes, Big Community Heart (Kent, Ontario)
  4. The Pandemic & Plastic: Tracking PPE Litter (Toronto, Ontario)
  5. The Bike Brigade (Toronto, Ontario)
  6. Rural Urban Indigenous Farming Allies Now! (Eden Mills, Ontario)
  7. Indigenous Seeds of Hope — Planting our Future (Milton, Ontario)
  8. MealCare Guelph (Guelph, Ontario)
  9. Milky Way Community Garden & Climate Hub (Toronto, Ontario)
  10. OASIS Food Hub Project (Toronto, Ontario)

Youth finalists:

  1. TreesCO2: 1000 Trees 4 Every Youth (Toronto, Ontario)
  2. Tree Planting with The Outland Youth Employment Program (Thunder Bay, Ontario)
  3. Come Grow and Play (Gordon/Barrie Island, Ontario)
  4. Movers & Shakers Program (Guelph, Ontario)
  5. Outdoor Learning Project (Waterloo, Ontario)

To meet the 15 inaugural Future Ground Prize finalists, visit davidsuzuki.org/future-first-prize/.

For more information or a media interview, please contact:

Lana Brandt, lbrandt@davidsuzuki.org, 778-833-2954

About:

The David Suzuki Foundation (DavidSuzuki.org) is a leading Canadian environmental non-profit organization, collaborating with all people in Canada, including government and business, to conserve the environment and find solutions that will create a sustainable Canada through evidence-based research, public engagement and policy work. The Foundation operates in English and French, with offices in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal.