Award for Outstanding Individual Philanthropist, 2025
The Griffin Bell Family
(Tamy, Evan and Abby and in honour of Griffin)
In honour of their son and brother, Griffin James Bell, who passed in 2023 at the age of six, the Bells have transformed unimaginable loss into extraordinary philanthropy, creating a powerful legacy in pediatric oncology research and children’s health care at CHEO. Their generosity is personal, transformative, and catalytic — inspiring individuals, families, and community leaders to step forward in meaningful ways.
It all began with Griffin, who proudly captained Griff’s Gang at CN Cycle, showing that even a young child could rally a community to take meaningful action. Under his leadership, the team grew year after year, drawing in families, colleagues, corporate partners, and local businesses, and establishing a model of grassroots engagement that continues today under the stewardship of his parents and sister. Griff’s Gang has become a powerful symbol of hope and leadership, attracting new donors, monthly contributors, and corporate supporters eager to join the cause.
The Bell Family’s impact extends far beyond their own extraordinary philanthropy; they have created a movement that inspires others to step into leadership roles in fundraising.
Nominated by The CHEO Foundation.
Since 1974 the CHEO Foundation has been dedicated to raising, managing, and disbursing funds to support the exceptional work of CHEO, the CHEO Research Institute, and Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice.



