Now that we’re two months into 2022, we can already tell this is going to be a unique and challenging year. While no one knows for certain how the year will unfold, there are some positive signs we will be able to begin to rebuild and move forward as the trials of the pandemic begin to recede.
Here at the Victoria Foundation, we know we have an exciting year ahead. It’s already started off with some change, as we welcome our new board chair Rajiv K. Gandhi and board member Tamara Napoleon. We’re thrilled to have you with us. I’d also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to outgoing board chair Zaman Velji, who will remain a member of the board, and board member Carey Newman for your contributions.
I would also like to welcome former board chair Dr. Grace Wong Sneddon to her new role as Victoria Foundation Honorary Governors President. Grace takes over the role from Rasool Rayani, who has come to the end of his term. We thank Rasool for his time and commitment.
In March we will be opening applications for our Community Grants Program, which offers funding to local registered charities for specific projects and flexible, general operating funds.
One of the ways this program is evolving is through strengthening its trust-based philanthropic principles to center relationships, prioritize equity-seeking groups, and support the sector overall. By doing so, we’re aiming to reach more Indigenous/BIPOC led and serving organizations and reduce barriers to access this much-needed funding. We’ve heard from many organizations and individuals how they feel our approach to granting can evolve to meet the needs of the community and we believe this is a step in the right direction.
This ever-evolving dedication to equity and trust-based philanthropy will continue to be a driving force for the Foundation this year and beyond. We are constantly working towards baking this commitment into the very core of what the Victoria Foundation is, as we believe it is central to building a community welcoming, safe, and fertile for all.
Plus 2022 will also see a redesigned Pulse magazine released in the summer, the latest edition of Vital Signs in the fall, our 2022 Vital Youth program, and an array of granting and philanthropic opportunities.
All in all, 2022 is shaping up to be a transformative and enriching year, and we can’t wait to share it all with you.
Sandra Richardson is CEO of the Victoria Foundation.
