2010-12-31 - Charity Focus

End of a decade
It is hard to believe that our first decade is under our belts. We are starting
the next decade firing on all cylinders. The challenge lies in continually staying
relevant to our donors, grant recipients and communities.
Our board committees are strong and well organized. Governance is in order.
We have completed and reviewed board and committee evaluations. A succession
plan has been built and ready to execute, if required. We have strong Human
Resource and Risk Management policies in place. Our Community Leadership
Committee is starting fresh and looking at ways to encourage the next generation
of leadership in our communities.
Liz Palmieri Executive Director and Mel Groom President
Events through the year have continued to enrich our brand, including Cuvée,
the GOATS Golf Tournament, St. Catharines Au Marché and our Canadian
Business Leaders’ Breakfast with guest speaker, Kevin Williams, President,
GM Canada. And new this year was the Random Act of Kindness Day that we
launched in November.
This has been a turning point year with our fundraising. We are entering our
11th year with $11 million in endowments. We are moving towards our next
goal of $20 million by 2020 with asset development becoming the priority of the
Foundation and a responsibility of every board member.
It is important to remember that we are really good at the job we do, linking
family legacies to their community. We can be proud of the relationships we build
with our donors, the thoughtfulness and consideration when making grants, the
low cost to maintain a fund and the flexibility we provide donors.
We are fortunate to have such a diverse and well respected group of volunteers
and donors. Thank you to all who have contributed to our success. As we start
the next decade, let’s continue to keep our eye on the ball and be ready to change
and adapt to whatever awaits us around the corner.
Niagara Community Foundation 2010 Annual Report | helping good people do great things in their community
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