You Make THE Difference National Initiative
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Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) Awarded Grant to Empower Local Agricultural Societies through the You Make THE Difference National Initiative
Stirling, Ontario – October 28, 2026 – The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies is proud to announce that it has been selected to participate in the You Make THE Difference National Initiative — a groundbreaking, fully funded program designed to empower agricultural societies, fairs, volunteers, and rural communities across Canada.
Made possible through the generous support of Fairs.com, this initiative provides comprehensive training and tools to help local fairs and exhibitions strengthen volunteerism, leadership, and community engagement — ensuring these iconic institutions continue to thrive in the 21st century.
As part of the program, every agricultural society in Ontario will receive access to an immersive 3.5-hour, in-person workshop tailored to their community’s needs. The sessions will focus on practical, results-driven solutions to challenges such as volunteer recruitment, leadership succession, and long-term sustainability. Participants will also gain ongoing access to an online learning hub filled with videos, resources, and templates for continued development.
“We’re thrilled to bring the You Make THE Difference initiative to Ontario,” said Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies President Heather Owens and Executive Director Vince Brennan. “This program will strengthen our fairs and agricultural societies, equip our volunteers, and build pride in the communities that make rural life so special. With the leadership of Ian Hill and the support of Fairs.com, we’re ready to make a lasting impact.”
The program will launch in February 2026 at the OAAS annual convention and roll out province wide through April and May 2026. In addition to the training offered to every board and volunteer team, the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies will receive a $1,000 coordination grant to assist with local implementation.
The initiative is led by Ian Hill, an award-winning humanitarian, fair and agricultural society advocate, and social innovator who has dedicated more than 25 years to strengthening communities across North America. Hill’s record-setting work — from launching international community-building projects to leading transformative leadership initiatives — has been recognized globally, making him a trusted champion for the future of Canada’s fairs and exhibitions.
The You Make THE Difference National Initiative has already made a significant impact across Canada and the United States, with provinces such as New Brunswick and Alberta, and states including Michigan, Maine, and South Carolina, joining the movement. The OAAS is honoured to be among the recipients and looks forward to strengthening fairs, agricultural societies, and rural communities throughout Ontario.
For more information about the You Make THE Difference National Initiative and how it will benefit fairs and agricultural societies in Ontario, please visit the OAAS Website or contact OAAS Executive Director Vince Brennan at vince@oaasfairs.com
About the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies
The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) is the provincial association representing over 210 Agricultural Societies from across the province.
Our Mission: “The OAAS provides Leadership, guidance, education, and resources for its members.”
Our Vision: “Celebrate, Empower, Inspire”
OAAS Facts: 199 agricultural societies are more than 100 years old Seven agricultural societies are older than 175 years, and three are more than 200 years. The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies will be celebrating 180 years in 2026.
About Fairs.com
Fairs.com is dedicated to supporting fairs and exhibitions by providing innovative tools, connections, and resources that strengthen these vital community institutions. Their partnership has made the You Make THE Difference National Initiative possible, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to empowering communities across Canada.
What is the “You Make THE Difference” Initiative? It is a national grant-funded leadership initiative powered by Fair.com, designed to equip fair boards, community and volunteers with practical strategies to thrive in today’s shifting environment.
Core Objectives is to assist fair organizations overcome key challenges, including volunteer shortages, financial sustainability, and leadership fatigue
GRANT AWARDED!
Congratulations to the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies, the latest recipient of the You Make THE Difference grant! These incredible leaders are strengthening communities across Ontario through their local fairs and agricultural societies. With the resources and training provided by this grant, they’ll continue to educate, empower, and inspire those who make rural life thrive. The You Make THE Difference National Initiative — led by award-winning Fair and Ag Society advocate Ian Hill — is dedicated to supporting those who uplift and unite their communities.
Fairs.com is proud to sponsor this movement. We can’t wait to see the tour make its way to Ontario! #YouMakeTHEDifference#OntarioFairs#AgriculturalSocieties#CommunityBuilding.
