The Association of Fundraising Professionals today named Clarica Life Insurance as the recipient of the Outstanding Philanthropic National Corporation Award.

The award is presented annually to a national company or corporation that demonstrates a commitment to charitable organizations throughout Canada and in particular in Eastern Ontario. Previous recipients include Bell Canada, Corel Corporation, MDS Nordian, Nortel Networks, and the Royal Bank of Canada.

Danielle Robinson, Clarica’s public relations and citizenship specialist, said “We are pleased to be selected as the recipient of this award. This recognition comes at a time of unprecedented changes brought about by the combination with Sun Life Financial. Nevertheless, Clarica’s commitment to charitable organizations and communities across Canada remains strong.”

“Our people and our community partners have helped us understand what’s important to them and where they would like to see Clarica make a clear difference. It’s these connections that create a sense of community within our company and have afforded us the opportunity to remain a supportive corporate citizen, even in times of change,” said Ms. Robinson, who manages Clarica’s corporate citizenship program in Ottawa and assists with Clarica’s Contribution national grants program.

Clarica was recognized by the AFP because of its commitment to outstanding civic and charitable responsibility through financial support, encouragement and motivation. “The leadership role Clarica played in furthering philanthropy and community partnerships in Ottawa during the past 12 months is particularly notable”, said Neil Leslie, chair of the 2002 AFP Ottawa Philanthropy Gala.