Giving every K-12 student in Ottawa the opportunity to succeed today and prepare for tomorrow.

Every child should finish school prepared to take on the world. ONFE is harnessing the resources of our incredible community to equip local youth with the tools, knowledge, and skills they’ll need to thrive in post-secondary studies and build fulfilling careers.

Our Focus Areas

Learning

Many students have learning challenges, and some Ottawa students are immigrants or new English language learners. We strive to remove barriers to learning by matching trained volunteers with teachers and students that need extra help.

Health & Well-Being

There is a direct correlation between the health and well-being of children and youth, and their ability to succeed in school. ONFE identifies and provides solutions to serious problems that affect wellness and academic achievement, including student hunger, inadequate nutrition, and problematic substance and technology use.

Career Readiness

We strive to help secondary students make informed career choices and transition successfully to post-secondary studies and fulfilling careers. Our innovative programming helps students develop financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, and work readiness skills.

Discover how ONFE’s programs are addressing critical issues in our schools, removing barriers to learning, supporting student well-being, and boosting student success.

“I was inspired to volunteer after reading about Jamie Oliver. I related to his concern about children, and his desire to make sure they’re fueled properly to learn. It made me think about what I could do, here at home.”

— Mary Jonsson, School Breakfast Program Volunteer