Dear Donors, Fundholders, and Friends of LCF,

I hope that you are all keeping well as we navigate through this uncertain time together.

As you are no doubt aware, the markets are currently experiencing significant volatility due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, I want to reassure you that LCF has the ability to weather this storm. The power of endowment means that even in times of crisis, we can continue to support our community. We are here for the long haul.

London Community Foundation has been around for 70 years and has experienced market downturns and crises in the past. Similar to past market challenges – most notably the 2008 financial crisis – our investments will rebound. These past experiences have prompted us to prepare for situations like this, modifying our investment policies accordingly.

It is possible that in the short-term our performance will suffer and we will experience some lower returns. However, our investment program is built to perform in both good and bad markets with a combined focus on capital preservation and steady growth. We have a strong cash position through our liquidity requirements, ensuring that your endowment funds continue to grant and that we can continue to respond to our community’s emerging needs.

We have a strong Investment Committee to monitor and oversee the LCF investment programs and an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) that provides structure and accountability to our strategy. Asset allocation and diversification are key to the long-term performance of the Foundation’s assets and will ensure that LCF’s investments bounce back

The power of a community foundation is its impact over generations and our investment strategy was developed to reflect that. Our Board, Investment Committee and staff are confident that the governance policies and processes we have in place ensure that during these volatile markets, the Foundation and its assets remain protected and your money continues to work in the community.

If you have any questions regarding LCF’s financial position, please don’t hesitate to contact Vijay Venkatesan, VP Finance & Operations. If you have questions about your fund or giving options, please contact Diane Silva, Director of Philanthropy.

We appreciate your patience and generosity during this time and hope to see you soon.

Sincerely,