How do you create sustained change? You start by investing in strong, vibrant and resilient communities and the people who call them home. That’s the mission of the Community Foundations of Canada – a network of 191 community foundations from across country that support over 90% of Canadian communities.
For a decade, the Foundation was overseen by president Ian Bird, a two-time Olympian and community builder extraordinaire. After working to build community through sport, Ian worked to help communities build a better Canada. How? Well, think about this: the Community Foundation network oversees assets of $5.8 billion and have invested hundreds of millions in community projects. The organization is the definitive source for data and knowledge on the health of our communities. And Community Foundation’s youth in philanthropy councils are helping rising leaders have a say in their future.
Today, Ian is a global adviser on philanthropic activities and stays connected to his love of sport as a coach. We met with Ian at his Ottawa office to discuss why your bold idea to help nature just might be the next best project supported by a community foundation.
Find him on LinkedIn
What do you think?
- What did you learn from Ian’s story?
- How can you follow in Ian’s footsteps?
- Will you seek support from a community foundation to help advance your idea?
- How can you develop your skills with the help of local community leaders?
- Will you incorporate philanthropy into your life as you grow older?
- How will you create a better community and a better world?