What is a Community Foundation?
How many Community Foundations are there in Canada?
How do Community Foundations relate to other non-profit and philanthropic organizations in my community?
How do Community Foundations work with other non-profit and philanthropic organizations in my community?
What attracts donors to Community Foundations?
How much do Community Foundations contribute to Canadian community organizations?
What is the role of Community Foundations of Canada (CFC)?
Does CFC provide funding for community groups?
How can I get involved in the Community Foundation movement?
Are there Community Foundations in other countries?

1. What is a Community Foundation?

Canada's Community Foundations do three key things to build community vitality:

• Vitality depends on long-term resources for long-term solutions—so we work with donors to build endowment funds that ensure vital futures for communities.
• Vitality comes from all corners of a community, so we grant funds to the widest possible range of organizations and initiatives.
• Vitality needs leadership, so we bring people together from all parts of our communities to stimulate new ideas, build participation and strengthen community philanthropy.

Our Approach

And while there are many organizations working for better communities, a few important factors make our approach special:

• We bring donors to the table as community builders, and help them formulate and realize their philanthropic goals, matching their interests and concerns with community needs and organizations, and finding innovative and responsible ways to give their investments lasting impact.
• We take the broadest view of what a community is and what it needs to succeed. This is why our grants support everything from shelter, sustenance and care for those most in need, to recreation, the arts, and the environment.
• We take the long-term view for our communities: we identify long-term needs and opportunities and invest in sustainable solutions, helping our communities become resilient, resourceful, and ready for the future they want. Find out more about our vision for communities and the principles that guide our work.

2. How many Community Foundations are there in Canada?

Community Foundations are one of the fastest growing networks dedicated to building and strengthening Canadian communities. Their numbers have more than quadrupled over the past decade or more - from 32 foundations in 1990 to 173 in 2010.

Winnipeg established Canada's first Community Foundation in 1921. Today, Community Foundations exist in every province and one territory and are linked and supported at the national level through Community Foundations of Canada.

3. How do Community Foundations relate to other non-profit and philanthropic organizations in my community?

The characteristics that make Community Foundations special include:

Permanence. A gift to a Community Foundation endowment is a gift that lasts forever.

Flexible donor service. Community Foundations connect donors with the issues and organizations that matter most to them. They offer donors a wide range of funds & giving options to help them meet their goals.

Broad perspective. Community Foundations support a wide range of causes, not just one sector or charity.

Community leadership. Community Foundations are often situated at the hub of our communities - promoting dialogue, building partnerships, and working on issues of broad interest.

Accountability. Community Foundations are recognized and sought after as responsible stewards of community resources. They strive for flexible, responsive and transparent governance and leadership practices that welcome involvement and encourage dialogue.

4. How do Community Foundations work with other non-profit and philanthropic organizations in my community?

Community Foundations benefit the entire community by promoting the value of charitable giving. They link donors with a wide range of community organizations and encourage gifts to all kinds of causes and charities. They work collaboratively with other funders and grant makers to help serve the needs of the whole community.

The Community Foundation movement openly shares its extensive experience and expertise with others in the voluntary sector - from developing values-based tools, to practical tips on human resources, governance, and administrative procedures.

5. What attracts donors to Community Foundations?

Community Foundations are increasingly popular with Canadians who want to have an impact on their communities now and in the future.

Flexibility is one of the primary reasons that Community Foundations are so popular among donors. Donors can give to any number of charities through their Community Foundation. They can also choose various types of funds, different ways in which gifts can be made, and their own degree of personal involvement.

Community Foundations also have a deep understanding of local issues. This insight helps donors have an even greater impact on the priorities that are close to their hearts.

6. How much do Community Foundations contribute to Canadian community organizations?

In 2008, the community foundation movement contributed $165 million to charities from coast to coast.  In 2009, the Cambridge & North Dumfries Community Foundation granted more than $155 thousand to charities and qualified organizations in and around our communities.

7. What is the role of Community Foundations of Canada (CFC)?

Community Foundations of Canada (CFC) is the national membership organization for Canada's Community Foundations. Its programs, activities and services are shaped by its members and are designed to support the three main roles of Community Foundations. CFC was founded in 1992.

8. Does CFC provide funding for community groups?

Individual Community Foundations across Canada support a wide range of local initiatives through their grant making programs - from health, education and social services to arts, culture, recreation and the environment.

Community Foundations of Canada does not have any funding or granting programs.

9. How can I get involved in the Community Foundation movement?

There are many different ways to support the Community Foundation movement. You can become a donor, volunteer your skills and services, or support an ongoing project. To find out about opportunities in your community, contact your local Community Foundation.

10. Are there Community Foundations in other countries?

Community foundations are one of the world's fastest growing philanthropic movements, with more than 1,100 foundations in 42 countries.

Canada is a respected leader in the international Community Foundation movement. Community Foundations of Canada (CFC) was instrumental in setting up a global network of organizations to support Community Foundations and build philanthropy around the world (WINGS-CF).

CFC continues to assist and learn from community organizations in Brazil, Mexico, Central and Eastern Europe, South Africa, and Australia.