Bridging Philanthropists with Community Organizations: 2021 Saskatoon Community Foundation Grants Announced
Saskatoon, June 30, 2021—The Saskatoon Community Foundation Many Voices Together Community Celebration held June 29th recognized 36 community based organizations sharing over $483K in grants funded by local philanthropists.
The foundation announced $308,750 in Quality of Life grants, $109,348 in Community Fund for Reconciliation grants, and $65,524 in Youth Endowment Saskatoon grants at the virtual event.
Attended by community organizations, supporters and volunteers, the Many Voices Together event featured a range of grants program recipients showing the impact their programs are having for the Saskatoon community.
The Quality of Life grants program is the foundation’s largest core granting program, focusing on belonging, inclusion, and opportunities for youth. Canadian Mental Health Association – Saskatoon branch (CMHA) was one of the 21 organizations receiving a Quality of Life grant this year. At the community celebration, CMHA panelists described their innovative For Youth by Youth wellness hub for the audience of community members and philanthropists.
“Thanks to the many Saskatoon Community Foundation supporters who have made donations through their own funds and through our Give YXE unrestricted fund, the Quality of Life grants program is able to support the great work of many organizations. They are funding many Quality of Life initiatives that create a healthy, vibrant Saskatoon with a true sense of belonging for all,” said Carm Michalenko, CEO, Saskatoon Community Foundation.
The Community Fund for Reconciliation at Saskatoon Community Foundation has granted over $539,000 since it was established in 2017. Supporters of the fund include Nutrien and other corporate supporters, individuals, and elementary school students. The Community Fund for Reconciliation has been a strong multi-year funder for Reconciliation Saskatoon initiatives such as the Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation and the ConnectR initiative.
“Continuing to support Reconciliation Saskatoon and the Survivors’ Circle is incredibly important to the Saskatoon Community Foundation board and staff. As we stand with survivors, we are listening to Indigenous leaders and seeking out partnerships that respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission calls to action. The Community Fund for Reconciliation supports Indigenous-led projects like the Wîcihitowin Indigenous Engagement Conference, the nêhiyawak Language Experience at READ Saskatoon, and others,” said Michalenko.
The Youth Endowment Saskatoon granting program is directed by the foundation’s Youth Advisory Council and supports a range of child- and youth-focused projects. Grant recipients include Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saskatoon, Care and Share, Family Service Saskatoon, Inclusion Saskatchewan, the Lung Association, SaskAbilities, and many others.
“To see positive changes…we need youth empowerment, employment, access to services, and mentorship. Decisions about youth should be made alongside youth,” the members of the Youth Advisory Council said in their statement.
To find more information about making a gift to benefit the community through Saskatoon Community Foundation, visit our website or contact us.
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Contact:
Carm Michalenko, BComm, MBA
Chief Executive Officer
Saskatoon Community Foundation
Phone: 306-665-1768
Email: ceo@saskatooncommunityfoundation.ca
Saskatoon Community Foundation:
Saskatoon Community Foundation stewards an endowment of $61 million in endowed and non-endowed funds and manages $20 million in funds for other charities, ensuring a reliable stream of grant funding flows into the community forever. The foundation is trusted to represent over 350 fund holders. Every year, it supports a wide range of community projects and initiatives on behalf of donors who have created unrestricted funds. The foundation also provides strategic grant making services, philanthropic advisory services, and community leadership. Beyond charitable sector knowledge, the Saskatoon Community Foundation team is passionate about supporting reconciliation, inclusion, and quality of life in our community. Follow the Saskatoon Community Foundation on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter or visit our website at saskatooncommunityfoundation.ca.