The Tidbits of Change Foundation will honor Kamloops youth Cassie McNutt next week for her work on a community charity initiative developed with her parents. McNutt will receive a Tidbits of Change Award and a youth bursary during a presentation scheduled for February 20 at the Delta Hotel Kamloops. This recognition underscores the significant impact that young Canadians can achieve through mentorship and community-focused projects.
Each year, the foundation recognizes three Canadian youth who partner with a parent or mentor on projects demonstrating initiative, leadership, and community impact. Successful applicants receive bursaries ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support their education. "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."
McNutt is being recognized for launching and expanding an annual charity initiative in Kamloops. What began as a clothing drive connected to a Christmas light display she created with her father has evolved into Cassie's Charity Drive, an annual fundraiser supporting the Kamloops Hospice Society. Her fundraising efforts have raised more than $260,000 for hospice services over the past four years, demonstrating how sustained youth-led initiatives can address critical community needs.
"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." This model of intergenerational collaboration highlights the potential for mentorship to amplify youth contributions to societal well-being.
The importance of this recognition extends beyond individual achievement. McNutt's work has also been acknowledged nationally, earning her the King Charles III Coronation Medal, making her one of the youngest recipients in Canada. This dual recognition at both foundation and national levels illustrates the broader significance of supporting youth engagement in philanthropy and community service.
For communities and organizations, McNutt's story demonstrates how empowering youth with mentorship and resources can lead to substantial, tangible outcomes. The over $260,000 raised directly benefits hospice services, showing that youth-led projects can contribute significantly to essential community infrastructure. The Tidbits of Change Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 youth bursaries, with the application period running until April 30. More information is available at tidbitsofchange.org.
This award presentation matters because it validates a proven approach to community development: investing in youth who work collaboratively with mentors. As healthcare and social services face increasing demands, initiatives like McNutt's show how grassroots fundraising led by young people can provide vital support. The foundation's ongoing bursary program encourages replication of this successful model across Canada, potentially multiplying community benefits nationwide.
