Since moving Grande Prairie in 1990, Clyde joined the Community Foundation board and today he is active as an ambassador. His community involvement has included Scouting, chairman of the public school board, board member of the Grande Prairie Live Theatre, actor, musical director, and director, member of the Grande Prairie Airport Commission, and co-chairman of the annual Street Performers Festival.
While Mary managed the busy lives of their three boys, Rob, Mike and Dave, she also volunteered at their elementary school for many years. For years, she was a CGIT leader at St. Paul’s United Church and her current role is as minister of Clairmont United Church. She takes great pleasure in her role as ‘Nana Mary’ to their grandchildren and several other youths born to their relatives and their children’s friends.
To the Blackburns, Grande Prairie is home and they strongly believe in making a lasting difference. Deciding to establish a legacy fund through the Community Foundation made a lot of sense because their giving continues forever. More importantly, the Community Foundation staff provided the options and awareness of the benefits of community endowment funds. The Blackburns received the helpful advice, professional administration, and friendly encouragement along with many success stories to ensure.
The Blackburns believe that urgent community needs change and often require a timely funding response. While endowment funds can be directed to many specific causes, the Blackburns decided, their best option was the Community Fund because its flexibility allows Community Foundation administration to quickly respond to community needs. Community Foundation’s Vital Signs Report allows the board and staff to recognize and even anticipate needs.
In 2005, the Clyde and Mary Blackburn Family Fund was established and today it continues to support the community. Pleased that their fund is granting to several organizations in need, Clyde and Mary encourage others in the region to experience the power of legacy endowment. Even when they are unable to contribute, Community Fund grows and its proceeds continue building a smart and caring community.
Give to the Community Foundation that gives to our community. Today’s small gifts yield larger return for future generations long after you are gone. For help and advice on how you can easily create your own family fund, contact us at the Community Foundation.
