THIS week, representatives of Aviva Canada Inc. announced the return of the Aviva Community Fund competition.

According to a press release, this is the fourth year of the program, presented by the provider of home, auto, leisure and business insurance, and offers Canadians $1 million to lead, empower and support community initiatives across the country.

Interested community members are encouraged to visit avivacommunityfund.org and submit ideas intended to make a positive impact on their local community. After rallying support from friends, family, neighbours and co-workers, the most popular ideas will have a chance to be funded with the $1 million Aviva Community Fund.

Examples of winning ideas in 2011 include a bear rescue facility in Smithers, a skateboard park in Yorkton, Sask., and a seniors' gym in Dundas, Ont.

New this year, and within the $1 million in funding, is a specific prize of up to $150,000 for Canadian community groups or charities that support homeless and at-risk youth programs. Also, up to $150,000 is available to initiatives supported by insurance brokers.