A Note from Diane
A note from Diane
When will the constant replay of “we’re living through challenging times” ever end? Here we are again - though this time, it feels different.
Just as we were getting settled in a post-pandemic world, our country is now unexpectedly caught in a full-on tariff war with the United States, coupled with the musings from the 47th President about Canada becoming the 51st State. This time, we can’t help but feel that “this time”, things feel uncomfortably ominous.
There is no doubt that we at London Community Foundation are concerned about the economic and geo-political headwinds ahead. But, we know Canada’s sovereignty is strong, and as we’ve seen, we are more united than ever before.
As community, while we grapple with these seemingly all-encompassing issues, we can’t lose sight of the vital work being done in London and Middlesex. Our community’s progress towards long-term solutions to homelessness, investments in mental health and addiction care, creating affordable and deeply affordable housing, building a stronger arts and culture sector that adds vibrancy, and fostering a community where everyone belongs and thrives must remain on the table.
This is why I’m feeling calm as we face the uncertainty. London Community Foundation has faced numerous crises throughout our 70-year history. We’ve learned from each crisis, helping us to mitigate the worst effects of future ones. This is a testament to the governance and oversight of our past and current volunteer Board of Directors, who, through their expertise, continue to build on the Foundation’s strengths so that London Community Foundation is here today and tomorrow.
I am encouraged when I talk to my peers across the country that although many are feeling uncertain, we are also seeing opportunities. That’s the beauty of Community Foundations. As a model that has been built and strengthened through the support of donors past and present, London Community Foundation is uniquely positioned to drive positive outcomes through our investments, grant-making, and our Social Impact Fund.
Your generous contributions to London Community Foundation don’t end when you donate. Your gift is invested in the economy, and the earnings are invested back into our community. Through our Social Impact Fund, we are able to unlock a portion of our unrestricted assets from traditional markets and invest locally in housing, entrepreneurs doing social good, and financing for nonprofits.
This form of community philanthropy allows the Foundation to be more agile than governments and to respond to emerging challenges. And because of that, and the strong community we are part of, I feel a sense of calm in the face of turbulent times ahead.
Diane Silva
President and CEO