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Greetings!
National Philanthropy Day ~ Being a philanthropist
Today is a special day in the non-profit and charity world. In 2009 the Minister of Canadian Heritage officially declared November 15 as National Philanthropy Day in Canada. As each of us reflect on the definition of philanthropy, "the love of humanity", we can identify with the amazing work that we see throughout our community, nationally and around the world. Philanthropy is seen in so many ways from the many people who continue to give time and skill to help an organization meet a goal, to the gifts of money to help further the impact of many non-profit and charitable organizations which contribute to a community's welfare, to the person who may have helped you when you were in need.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is proud to have been one of the original founders of National Philanthropy Day, as a proud member of AFP, I thought it is fitting to share with you a couple stories from our Foundation on the positive impact of community philanthropy.
Transporting Seniors
There are over 350 senior citizens living in the lodges operated by the Grande Spirit Foundation. Many are well over 75 years of age and many are no longer able to drive. While life in the lodges can be very satisfying, the world outside is much bigger and our community has a lot to offer to those who can get out and about. Besides, studies show that active and mentally-stimulated seniors enjoy a better quality of life and physical well-being. The Grande Spirit Foundation owns and operates a bus for group transportation that allows seniors to take part in visits, shopping trips, medical appointments, events, and an unimaginable variety of outings thanks to a grant made by the Community Foundation from the Talisman Energy Fund.
Nourishing local children
Children arrive in Grande Prairie schools every morning from many different walks in life. It's hard to imagine the misfortune that some children experience day to day. For those that come to school hungry, learning is more difficult, social development is a challenge, and health can be at risk. Teachers, administrators, and other adults in the school system see these effects each day and long to be able to help these children they come to know so well, and so was born the Grande Prairie Schools Snack Program. The program is possible in part thanks to a grant made by the Community Foundation from the Merv and Dawn Marie Crouse Family Fund.
Rescuing Youth
Being homeless is a hard way of life. Even if only for a short time. Imagine the feeling of being homeless at the age of 14 because you feel you can't go home. The Grande Prairie Youth Shelter Society provides a place for young people in such a situation to turn. The Society can provide not only shelter, but resources to help these boys and girls find safe living accommodation or even a return to home with the right kind of counselling for them and their families. One of the reasons that the Society is able to contribute to our community in this way is because of a grant made by the Community Foundation from the Logan Family Fund.
Philanthropy and YOU
November 15 is Philanthropy day. Many of us hear the word and think of rich people sharing their wealth. Who hasn't heard of Bill Gates being a philanthropist, sharing his fortune with the needy? The Community Foundation of Greater Grande Prairie exists to support donors like you as well as charities. You can join with your neighbours and practise philanthropy right where you live, work and play. Whether you are an individual, part of a family like the Logans and the Crouses, or part of an organization like Talisman Energy, you can make a difference within the community around you.
Learn how you can support the causes of your choice through donations large or small managed by a Foundation dedicated to bringing donors and charities together to enrich the whole community. The Community Foundation of Greater Grande Prairie - helping people in the Peace Country give back to the community they care about, in a way that is simple, convenient and lasting.
As Mother Teresa said so well, "Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go."
Warmest wishes,
 Tracey Vavrek, Executive Director
Phone: 780.538.2820
tracey@buildingtomorrowtoday.com
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