First of all, I’d like to extend my heartfelt appreciation for all of the warm and encouraging well wishes I have received while being introduced in this new role! It was touching to hear from friends, family and past co-workers, and even people that I have not had the pleasure of meeting…yet! Thank you so much!
Change. It can be a daunting process at the best of times, but add a pandemic to the equation and nothing is status quo! Here at the Community Foundation we are experiencing change internally with a new CEO, as well as doing our best to pivot to the needs of the community during this pandemic. We have been honored to collaborate with both the provincial and federal governments, being chosen as one of the vessels for funding those who need it most.
As individuals, we are all experiencing change in our home lives, work arrangements, social engagements, education delivery and household financial situations. It can be stressful to make adjustments, and the changes affect all ages and stages of our communities. Connections aren’t simple, budgets are tight, our children are learning from our kitchen tables, hugs are forbidden, celebrations have been put on hold, and we are left to find some sort of balance between staying healthy and staying sane! That’s heavy!
In my own life, I have taken the approach to do what I can today. Breaking things down into a day to day approach may sound cliché, but it really is all we can do when the changes keep coming and we lack control over so much. These times are difficult, but our region has been built by resilient pioneers that preceded us, and we have that same resolve! I remain inspired by the sense of community, evidence of cooperation, and the inspiring giving nature of so many.
The remarkable community organizations in our region are doing their best to continue to do the good work they do, many on the frontlines of social services efforts. Our region is strengthened due to your continued dedication to help vulnerable populations, now more than ever! Look for the helpers! They are everywhere! Even the smallest gestures mean so much!
We have been humbled by generous donations to our Better Together COVID-19 Response Fund and The Community Kitchen & Food Bank Fund. We sincerely appreciate all donations, no matter how big or small, all are impactful! Every dollar contributed signifies help, acknowledges that we are in this together, and lifts us up in the spirit of cooperation! The Community Foundation of Northwestern Alberta is here to help you help others!
Lastly, I want to send a warm shout out to the mothers in our region! I know your regular responsibilities have been compounded in so many ways. Moms mean so much, especially at times like this! To my own mother, Joanne, and all the precious moms in our area, thank you for all that you do to provide, protect, and persevere! We celebrate you!
Wishing everyone good health and steadfast determination for better days ahead!
COVID-19 Funds being matched at the Community Foundation of Northwestern Alberta
The Government of Alberta has chosen our Community Foundation as one of seven charitable organizations of which they will match donations up to $2 million to Alberta-based charities and non-profit organizations with COVID-19 fundraising campaigns. Monetary donations received for one of our COVID-19 Funds by May 31st will be eligible for this matching opportunity.
Annual General Meeting
