Power, Purpose + A Blazer: How One Toronto Campaign Is Redefining Philanthropy With Style

This fall, the blazer becomes more than a fashion staple—it becomes a statement of purpose. From September 18 to October 18, the Support the Blazer campaign returns for its fourth year, uniting change-makers across the GTA and beyond to raise critical funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Toronto and other local charities. Behind the movement is Spark Charity Foundation and its founder, Nick Regina, who’s determined to show how a simple blazer can inspire a culture of giving.

“When you put on that blazer, you’re not just making a fashion statement—you’re stepping into something bigger,” says Nick Regina, CEO and Co-Founder of Spark Financial Group. “You’re joining a community of incredible people, united by purpose, generosity, and the desire to make a real impact.”

Launched in 2022 from humble beginnings (a lost suitcase, a floral shirt, and a spontaneous fundraising idea), Support the Blazer has since raised over $135,000. Now, Regina is aiming for a bold new milestone: $1 million raised for charity in 2025.

And he’s leading by example—literally. Regina will once again wear the campaign’s signature blazer for 30 consecutive days, from boardrooms to cold plunges, community hubs to billboards in Yonge-Dundas Square.

“It’s not always comfortable, and that’s the point,” says Regina. “It represents consistency, sacrifice, and standing for something—even when no one’s watching.”

Participants, affectionately dubbed “The Good People Army,” are invited to join in by donning this year’s blazer, rallying their communities, and fundraising for causes close to their hearts. While RMHC Toronto is the lead charity, participants may select their own registered organizations, with 10 per cent of campaign funds shared among them all.

“At RMHC Toronto, we know that when a child is seriously ill, families need more than treatment—they need a circle of care,” says Melissa DeMers, Director of Development. “Support the Blazer is a powerful way to literally keep families close to your heart.”

The campaign encourages involvement in three accessible ways:

• As Individuals: Wear the blazer, start conversations, and raise awareness in your circles.
• As Teams: Rally coworkers, friends, or family for collective impact.
• With a Pin: Purchase a commemorative pin and donate directly.

But Support the Blazer isn’t just about raising money—it’s about redefining leadership and what it means to show up. “Style is storytelling,” Regina explains. “By combining fashion with purpose, we’ve created a visible reminder that anyone, in any industry, can be a force for good.”

His ultimate dream blazer-wearer? “Nelson Mandela,” he says without pause. “He understood the power of symbolism. I can picture him in the blazer—dignified, resilient, purposeful. That’s what this campaign is about.”

Whether you’re a CEO, creative, or community champion, now’s the time to throw on a blazer, take a stand, and join the movement. —Noa Nichol