“Did you notice our name change?We believe the new name: Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta is much more descriptive of all the communities we serve.” Phyllis Hutchinson, President
community grants 2010
President’s Report
Ordinary people indeed do extraordinary things. In fact, many ordinary people have
supported the Lethbridge Community Foundation over the past 44 years. Whether
those ordinary people were donors establishing new funds, contributors to the
existing funds, or volunteers on our Board of Directors, they have done extraordinary
work through the Community Foundation to serve the communities of southwestern
Alberta for today and for years to come.
During my term as a Board member, and now as President of the Community
Foundation, I have been very pleased to participate in furthering our vision, which is
to “act as a leader and a catalyst in enabling community development in southern
Alberta.” At the end of the 2009 fiscal year, our endowment had grown to over $12
million through the generous donations of individuals throughout the region. It is
carefully managed so that the investment income generated from the pooled
donations will be returned to local charitable organizations involved in the grassroots
activities that strengthen our communities. As you read through this report, you will find stories about both donors and recipients, stories which exemplify our ongoing commitment to our vision of growing stronger communities through a lasting legacy. Because the Community Foundation uses the income from the pooled donations – which are added to an ever-increasing endowment fund - the donors’ charitable dollars continue to work long after the original donation is received. In 2009, we were able, despite the market downturn, to distribute close to $157,000 in grants, and this year, we have distributed nearly $154,000. As you read through the list of organizations who have received grants, you will see a diverse array of organizations who have been able to carry out a variety of community building projects as a result of these grants.
Over the years the Community Foundation’s reach has extended throughout the southwestern part of the province, in grants given to community charities located in dozens of small towns and villages surrounding Lethbridge, and also in the generous endowments given to the Community Foundation from donors living in these areas. This year, the Community Foundation has acknowledged our regional nature by changing our name from Lethbridge Community Foundation to Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta. We feel the new name better represents our ongoing dedication to the whole region.
I would like to thank the Board members who, after two three year terms, left the Board this year. John Van Nistelrooy from Enchant, and Bruce McKillop and James Enman, both from Lethbridge, have been hard working, dedicated volunteers whose contributions have helped shape and guide the organization. Thank you, as well, to Carmelle Steel from Claresholm, for her term on the Board. I would also like to welcome new Board members, Dennis Hatt and Gwen Van Raalte of Lethbridge, Corrine Klassen of Coaldale, and Joan Paradee of Taber. The commitment these volunteers offer is one of our greatest assets.
I encourage you to support the Community Foundation at our upcoming Friends of the Foundation Dinner on September 23, where we will celebrate our success with our many supporters. The Buck Starts Here Trade Show on November 4 & 5 will feature speakers who are experts in the fields of planned giving and fund development, offering assistance to local charities who are looking for funding opportunities. On behalf of the Board and staff, I look foward to seeing you there!
Phyllis Hutchinson, President
In December 2007, Annette Nuszdorfer suffered a stroke that paralyzed her right side. She was only able to walk short distances with the use of a cane and was left feeling limited in the places she could go. A Community Impact Grant from the Community Foundation was provided to Easter Seals Alberta, who in turn provided Annette with a scooter through their Total Access Program. Read More ...
There’s no better place to be in the summer than at the Raymond Aquatic Centre. Built last year, the aquatic centre is a wonderful facility for children of all ages and abilities. Facility Manager Kinsey Holt, left, asked families what extras they needed at the new facility and then she applied for a Community Foundation grant for the new tot slide and shade structures. Read More ...
Through a suggestion from his accountant over 15 years ago, John Gogo established a Donor Advised Fund with the Community Foundation. Starting with a $60,000 donation, John decided he would create a fund and with the interest earned, personally present cheques to charities of his choosing. Since 1995, John has presented over 300 cheques totalling over $50,000 in grants to local groups. Read more ...
OF LETHBRIDGE AND SOUTHWESTERN ALBERTA
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Report to the Community, September 2010
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Updated December 2011
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