April is the month we celebrate the creation of the Community Foundation and the essential role our organization plays in building community vitality. The concept of the Community Foundation was introduced in 1994 to community member Kim Logan. In 1995 a group came together to explore options and the impact that a Community Foundation might have for this region. This was followed by a visit from Doug McNally, who was at the time Chief Executive Officer of the Edmonton Community Foundation.   He shared information about the national movement with this keen group.

Recognizing the opportunity to have a positive impact on the community for families, individuals and companies looking for ways to create a legacy for the place they call home, the group received charitable and not-for-profit status in January 1996, founding the Community Foundation of Greater Grande Prairie.

Then the work began: raising the profile of the Community Foundation, and helping people understand the purpose of a Community Foundation. The organization is a public foundation dedicated to helping people give back to the communities they care about in a way that is easy, convenient and lasting.

For the past 17 years, volunteers have dedicated time, skill and resources to support the growth and development of the Community Foundation.  Many meetings and presentations have been held to share knowledge of the strength of legacy funds and how gifts today and/or estate gifts in the future are held forever, supporting all areas of the charitable community. 

Since 1996, your Community Foundation has had a positive impact on each and every charitable sector in the community through our annual impact granting program, as well as providing leadership support and resources to numerous not-for-profit organizations.  We act as a bridge between the donors and charities of northwestern Alberta to help create and maintain a strong, vibrant community for generations to come.

During my reflection on the original intent of our organization, I found some interesting facts.

In:

• 1921 ~ The Winnipeg Foundation, Canada's first community foundation is established.
• 1955 ~ The Calgary Foundation becomes the first community foundation in Alberta. Today, it is among the largest in Canada and is one of more than 10 community foundations in Alberta.
• 2013 ~ The Community Foundation of Greater Grande renamed to the Community Foundation of Northwestern Alberta in support of the region served.
• 2013 ~ 183 Community Foundations across Canada are working to help build more vibrant, healthy and resilient communities.

I am honoured to be part of an organization that is committed to community, partnering with people who share a love for our community. Interested in exploring how you can make a lasting impact, you can reach me at (780) 538-2820 or by replying to this e-mail.  

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." ~Sir Winston Churchill

Warmest wishes,