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Top Non-profit organizations in Ottawa, Canada

Top Rated Non-profit organizations in Ottawa

Top Reviewed Non-profit organizations in Ottawa

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is not only known for its impressive governmental institutions and cultural richness but also for the exceptional work of its non-profit organizations. These organizations are the unsung heroes, tirelessly working to address various social and environmental issues, leaving an indelible mark on the community. In this extensive guide, we'll introduce you to the best non-profit organizations in Ottawa, showcasing their vital contributions to the city and its people. From supporting the less fortunate to protecting the environment, these organizations are the backbone of the community. Let's delve into their stories and understand why they are a must-see in the nation's capital.

1. Ottawa Mission

Location: 35 Waller St, Ottawa, ON

The Ottawa Mission provides hope, shelter, and support to those who are hungry, homeless, and in need of help.

2. United Way Ottawa

Location: 363 Coventry Rd, Ottawa, ON

United Way Ottawa brings together resources, skills, and expertise to address local poverty issues and create sustainable community solutions.

3. Ottawa Food Bank

Location: 1317 Michael St, Ottawa, ON

The Ottawa Food Bank is the city's main emergency food provider, supplying food to those in need through a network of community agencies.

4. The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre Foundation

Location: 1145 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON

The Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health supports the work of the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and helps improve mental health in the community.

5. Ottawa Humane Society

Location: 245 West Hunt Club Rd, Ottawa, ON

The Ottawa Humane Society protects animals from suffering and promotes their welfare, well-being, and humane care.

6. Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

Location: 501 Smyth Rd, Ottawa, ON

The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute conducts world-class research to improve patient care, making scientific discoveries that are translated into new treatments.

7. Ottawa Community Foundation

Location: 75 Albert St, Suite 301, Ottawa, ON

The Ottawa Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter, improving the quality of life in the city.

8. Ecology Ottawa

Location: 1 Nicholas St, Suite 430, Ottawa, ON

Ecology Ottawa focuses on promoting clean energy, sustainable transportation, and protecting greenspace to build a greener city.

9. Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa

Location: 1645 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa, ON

This organization facilitates life-changing relationships that inspire and empower children and youth to reach their potential, both as individuals and citizens.

10. Ottawa Network for Education

Location: 900 Morrison Dr, Suite 201, Ottawa, ON

Ottawa Network for Education partners with the community to help all students experience success in school.

Conclusion

These non-profit organizations are the heart and soul of Ottawa, touching the lives of its residents in countless ways. Whether it's providing shelter and food to the less fortunate, supporting mental health, protecting animals, or fostering environmental sustainability, these organizations are the pillars of the community. They may have different missions, but they share the same commitment: to make Ottawa a better place for all. You can support their causes by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word about the incredible work they do. Ottawa's non-profit organizations exemplify the spirit of giving and unity, proving that together, we can build a brighter future for the nation's capital. Visit these organizations and witness firsthand the positive change they bring to Ottawa.

Reviews

The staff is great I was late & I honed in & they had it ready 4 me when I came in
Items mentioned in other review; bread, buns, eggs are NOT expired as they are delivered fresh every week.
The donor appreciation day was well done. Loved the carolling! All the dogs and kitties were so cute!
Great volunteer experience sorting food! I’m looking forward to the next time I’m able to help!
This place is not very humane.
You have to have an appointment now to drop off a stray.
We went in with a stray cat, they were rude, disrespectful, and did not have the cats best interest at heart.
We were unable to leave the cat as we didn't feel they cared, at all. They wouldn't just do a chip check.
Luckily we were able to find the cats home.
All the lost binders are full of pages from 2019+2020.
There was no way to access their computer resources there.
It was very disappointing.
They are a kill shelter.
Took in a pregnant stray cat in who showed up desperate at my door. She gave birth to the kittens and I tended to them for weeks until they became too much so brought them to “Humane Society” to be adopted out with the exception of mom and 1 kitten who we requested back. They forced us to surrender them and tested mom who was FLV+. Without telling us they euthanized all the kittens without even testing them for FLV (even though statistically half would have been completely healthy). They were on the verge of euthanizing mom and I had to fight tooth and nail to save mom from death sentence. They told me she’d be dead in 6 months but finally let me adopt essentially my own cat. She recently passed away at 10 years after 8 great years with her. Was a wonderful cat that they would have euthanized as they did her babies. Recently visited to see their cats against my better judgement. Totally unclear what is available for adoption and what isn’t. We looked at cats we liked who had already been adopted with no notification of such. Seems to be all about them now and not the animals. Stood waiting at the front desk for the three staff to bother to acknowledge my presence as they were all simultaneously “busy” and did the “pretend not to see you tactic”. In case you’re wondering this is NOT a no kill shelter and they will kill potentially healthy animals rather than do a simple blood test on them. They’ve completely changed and not for the better. Last time I ever go there. Donate your money somewhere else.
We had a great experience adopting our 13 week old kitten, Merlin. The staff were very kind and knowledgeable. It’s so convenient to get a pet that’s fixed and has all its shots. Ours needed one more shot and we got a coupon for a free consult at a local vet so we’ll take him there for the consult and shot.
Erin
at 2023 Oct 29
Erin
at 2023 Oct 29
I visit the food bank here and they are amazing! It helps so much. My dog and kitty were so happy! Very nice and helpful people, thx so much
Thank you for the child! Boots is very loved! I nicknamed him chunk cause he's so porky! For real thanks for the work that yall do for the animals, yall rock!
Went on a Sunday I believe with our daughter to see some animals, we always wanted a dog but we both agreed that we don't have time for one. As we walked out a men with a cage and his son in the other arm came through the front door asking where he could drop off his unwanted pet. The lady told him to go a door over of the building and my gf was astounded nd followed him. After 2min she came back and asked me if we could adopt a cat and I told her it's up to her, long story short meet lily our newest addition to the family super loving super cuddly!!!
Very cool walking path in such a tranquil forest, the energy in there is peaceful. Take your time to actually enjoy the sculptures and natural surroundings and you’ll definitely feel the peace it all brings. I think in total it’s less than 2km with a couple of challenging ups and downs at times if you have bad knees, or ankles; bring a walking stick. Very original idea, thank you for the experience. Will return again in future, worth contributing to.
The Humanics Sanctuary And Sculpture Park was the perfect way to spend a couple of hours in the fall. An absolutely beautiful setting, surrounded by inspirational art from around the globe . Who could have guessed it is only minutes from the city. Highly recommend going, wear good shoes, bring a water bottle and enjoy some wonderful time in nature.
Great place to volunteer for 2-3 hours as a group, team or family. Well organized.
Great place. The receptionist treated me very well. We talked for a few minutes. Bring your bags and an ID for verification.
This place offers excellent service
Today, quite by chance, I discovered an enchanting site, inviting contemplation and meditation. The Humanics Sanctuary is a magical place where statues invite you to reflect on living together, respecting all religions and cultures, and loving Mother Nature. A must-see!
hidden little gem in the city. I wonder why not many ppl know about it. so many nice sculptures from various religions and nice arrangements. there is a separate designated place for meditation. Admission is $8/person, student and senior $5/person, and children under 12 are free. parking is free. washrooms available. little playground for kids. really nice energy.
This is an amazing hidden gem. So many sculptures with so much of life meanings for them. We were given a great tour and the guides were very knowledgeable. This was an incredible experience. Beautiful, tranquil park. I would highly recommend this experience for both adults and children alike.
Hidden Gem nestled in an Ancient Forest of Tranquility!
We spent 2 hours walking these beautiful well maintained walking/hiking trails. There were SO many fascinating & educational spots showcasing amazing hand carved sculptures from around the world, representing awareness of "Who we are" by sharing the 3 essential values of 1. Oneness 2. Equality 3. Interconnection.
We took over 30 pictures & read all the sculpture info boards displayed, which reflect which religion AND which essential value, each sculpture represents.
We were SO impressed, we bought an annual membership so we can come as many times as we'd like & plan to bring our children & grandchildren.
This is an awesome venue for Celebration of Life, Weddings, Family Gatherings, Meditation Workshops, etc...
Located just 1/2 hour from Ottawa and nestled in the town of Cumberland, just off Highway #174, with access to the Park from Old Montreal Road.
Well done and MANY more expansion ideas/plans in the works!
Nicholas L
at 2023 May 24
Nicholas L
at 2023 May 24
This is an incredible organization. The staff are amazing, simply put. I love the events they organize for the community like the annual Sugar Festival and Summer Camps. They recently hosted a ceremony for new Canadian citizens in their beautiful, brand new sugar shack. Thank you for being a wonderful hub for our Vanier community to be proud of! ❤️
Warehouse is clean and soft.
Nick, the manager working there, really nice guy
This food bank has a great people who work there. I read that the food lole eggs, bread, ect are expired. Well i know that they have fresh good and product. They get a load. And they stuff that can be frozen is kept in the freezer. Or the eggs. They reuse the cartons because they come in bulk. Instead of cutting the place down ask or let them know. Just be thankful you have some place to get food. Its better then not getting any food at all. Im thankful.
I discovered this sculpture park by accident after reading a local guidebook. The sculptures are gorgeous, the forest walk very tranquil, and the staff member who welcomed us was friendly. A hidden gem in the greater Ottawa area.
Very nice place to see various sculptures outside on a quite walk. Walk is around 1.5 km with statues and information displays for each section. Certain sections are in progress. There is little picnic area. Staff is friendly and helpful.
Nice exhibition on Captain Acadie
コウデKoude
at 2022 Mar 20
コウデKoude
at 2022 Mar 20
Mario is a wonderful guide, loved his energy and way of storytelling, very clear in both English and French (even for someone who is not fluent in French). Learned a lot from the tour about the history of maple production and local Vanier history!
E
at 2022 Mar 04
E
at 2022 Mar 04
They do amazing work. Volunteering here is very rewarding.
I donated money to this charity 2 years ago. Now they constantly send letters in the mail asking for more donations (entering my address was mandatory even though it was an online donation). I've emailed them twice asking to be removed from the mailing list and no one has gotten back to me. Please use donated money to help those in need instead of bothering people like myself, it makes me want to donate to another charity that won't ignore my rights to unsubscribe. Can't believe a CHARITY would do this and ignore me. I will donate when I want, not because I'm being SPAMMED AGAINST MY WILL.
Very good foodbank.Giftcards come in handy.Never got anything expired.👍
last month i went i did not recieve my ground beef or any soups ,stews, or spegetti o's not only that no tuna or beans in tamato sauce or maple syrup.... or margerine ....very disapointed how do you expect to.make it last three days when you dont even recieve all items that your suppose to.get also i and plenty 0ther food bamk.isers do believe theres favorites im not raceist i am lebanese &half whitr but i do notice ali and others catering to people of the muslim.religion giving them way more them they should get also oiving th things that they already have its gpttallty unfair numerous times i see him say shhh amd wonl as he gives extras also there people marked down as fsmily of four amd five who are only one person done by .amager lousia this whilole heron foad food bsnk meeds to bd let go and hsve new staff gbat arent crooked
Doing great work for the region’s most vulnerable
We’re fortunate to have services like the Ottawa Humane Society. Unwanted pets and rescue animals etc need out help sometimes. It’s understandable why people can’t afford to keep their pets anymore. There could be many reasons why. Bringing them to the humane society is the best step if there aren’t any other options. We needed to sadly let go of a couple of rescue cats because it wasn’t feasible. The society was helpful and courteous and took them in. I’m sure they will find a good home. Thank you. 👍☺️
I'm so sad grant closed down. I was only there for half a year but the teachers and students were especially welcoming. It was a small school but that was part of its charm. There was this one kid I didn't like but in life you can sit and call out all the people who you didn't like or you can focus on the good. Grant taught me that. So many lovely memories there
Tyler
at 2020 Oct 12
Tyler
at 2020 Oct 12
We only visited Writer’s Way. An amazing tribute to some important members of Canada’s french communities. Looking forward to returning.
Can anyone share what this was originally?? (The small sealed off cave/cellar directly on the trail)

Stay well everyone, wear a mask!
THEY DO NO GOOD WITH WHAT THEY HAVE!..called was answered by call center staff ..told I could not retrieve a food hamper there ...directed to multiple locations..that provide small snacks NO FOOD Hampers..Asked numerous times were they distribute food and I could NOT get a Response...DO NOT DONATE HERE!...THEY DO NO GOOD WITH THEY HAVE!
Elleanor Ripley
at 2020 Feb 22
Elleanor Ripley
at 2020 Feb 22
Wonderful gem in the middle of the city people in the streets Baraboo bah
Samantha López
at 2020 Feb 11
Samantha López
at 2020 Feb 11
Good services and the museum was so small
Lucero León
at 2020 Jan 20
Lucero León
at 2020 Jan 20
Mario was an excellent guide.
A wonderful organization that supports local museums.
It's definitely good and helps people in need. People there are also very helpful. But some of items like bread, buns, eggs are most of the time expired.
Dave N
at 2019 Mar 08
Dave N
at 2019 Mar 08
Came for training session by their project HIO, very good training and staff but bad location for those of us on the bus
Chantale Lavoie
at 2018 Dec 29
Chantale Lavoie
at 2018 Dec 29
Love walking there. A bit of country in the city. Beautiful parc. Kid friendly with structures for them to play.
Have volunteered here a few times and the staff does amazing work. Really helps those in need. Definitely recommend helping out here whenever possible or at their affiliated farm during planting and harvest season
A lot of amazing people working there and fantastic community initiatives. Get involved!
Provides great services to the community
Awesome environment to volunteer at. I come here every year with the military and we always find the staff energetic and friendly. They also provide good training and instructions so you stay well informed as a volunteer.
Serving Ottawa's most in need