2024 Impact Awards winner: Petro-Canada (1553864 Alberta Ltd.), Calgary

For Petro-Canada, giving back to those who serve as caregivers in communities across the country is a top priority. 

“Family caregiving can be a challenging role,” says Srinivasa Veeraghanta, area retail licensee. “Many Canadians are unexpectedly called on to provide critical support without any training.” 

In fact, more than eight million dedicated Canadians invest significant time and energy into providing care for their loved ones. Unfortunately, their efforts and commitment often go unnoticed. 

The aim of the Petro-Canada CareMaker Foundation is to change the narrative and empower family caregivers. It raised more than $100,000 nationally. 

Veeraghanta has been a supporter since the foundation began in November 2020. He hosted and participated in the Stride for Caregivers event in 2023, along with staff in the Calgary area.

They walked 5,000 kilometres around the Nolan Hill location to raise awareness. His gas stations were also involved in CareMakers Blitz promotion programs with a portion of the proceeds from sales donated to the foundation. 

Veeraghanta donated $5,000 himself and vowed “to conduct similar events every year and try to raise more funds to support the family caregivers and make a difference in the lives of family caregivers.”