The Honda Indy Toronto was once again the backdrop for an incredible show of generosity from race fans, the Ontario Honda Dealers Association (OHDA) and the Honda Canada Foundation (HCF). Total donations for Make-A-Wish™ Canada were a sizeable $75,000, thanks to a $30,000 contribution by fans matched by the OHDA and HCF, and generous contributions of $5,000 and $10,000 from new partners Tim Hortons Inc. and Johnsonville Sausage.

This was the 30th year of racing on the streets of Toronto and the seventh straight year for Make-A-Wish fundraising efforts at the Honda Indy Toronto. Over that time, spectators and partners have raised more than $500,000 for Make-A-Wish.

“This is a true reflection of how big people’s hearts are and I know that everyone at Make-A-Wish shares in my excitement and sincere gratitude to Indy fans, the Honda Canada Foundation and Ontario Honda dealers,” said Jennifer Klotz-Ritter, president & CEO, Make-A-Wish Canada. “Programs like this play an instrumental role in our ability to bring strength and happiness to the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions.”

Race fans of all ages were once again treated to the speed and spectacle of the race and fun of the surrounding festival on Fan Friday. Instead of admission, attendees were encouraged to make a contribution to Make-A-Wish. Donations were also accepted throughout race weekend for games and activities including face painting, racing simulators and Honda Junior Red Riders off-road riding program. All contributions over the weekend were matched dollar-for-dollar by Honda Canada Foundation, the company’s national charitable arm.

“This is exactly what the Honda Canada Foundation is all about and the common values we share with Canadians,” said Dave Gardner, senior vice president of Operations, Honda Canada Inc. “We’re thrilled about what we’ve accomplished together with thousands of Indy fans, our dealers and this year, a host of new Honda Indy Toronto partners including Tim Hortons and Johnsonville.”