Key takeaways from the Community Foundations of Canada national Conference in Halifax

#1  Relationships are key to success in our sector

Throughout  the conference, I was reminded that relationships  play a big part in determining success. It's well known that building relationships with funders can lead  to better grants. However, building these relationships also helps to spread the word about the  good work that your organization is  doing. 

It was so nice to run into Anne-Marie Pierce, former CEO of the Mississauga Foundation. While she has moved to the Brant Foundation, she was kind enough to introduce me to some colleagues and let them know about the work I'm doing with DoGood. She reminded me that a strong personal relationship can help to cultivate a champion that is inspired to share your mission in a positive way.  That was a highlight of the conference for me!

Rohit with Anne-Marie Pierce, former CEO of the Mississauga Foundation.

#2  - You're not alone -  we're all facing similar challenges

We're all feeling the effects of economic tariffs, the onslaught of artificial intelligence, and political instability. Tariffs have caused many challenges with fewer interactions with our neighbors to the South, and decreased revenues for many businesses. 

Artificial Intelligence is not only actively disrupting our workplace, but is putting increased pressure on staff to get more done in less time. 

The unexpected changes in government and the few months of little to no government funding is having an impact on our sector.

Together, these  have a measurable impact on donors , funders and operations, and no organization across the country is immune.

#3 Indigenous reconciliation is a key priority for Community Foundations

A portion of the conference included heartfelt and personal testimonies from survivors of Residential Schools. One elder had some simple, but essential advice which was to tell our family that we love them. Another talked about how we must not forget about Indigenous families and children.

#4  Pooling wealth leads to more wealth, more funding, and more impact

Many large wealth management companies were present at the event as exhibitors. In speaking to them, I realized that several of the organizations who do frontline community work may not be eligible for their asset management portfolios. However, Community Foundations specialize in pooling assets and earning great rates of return for donors. This is significant and is a strong reason why mission-driven organizations should seriously consider speaking with your local Foundation. If your organization can make an investment in an endowment fund, for instance, this can lead to a lifetime of impact!

#5 When attending a conference, don't forget to have fun!

Finally, the highlight of the conference was the performance of a Juno award-winning band featuring Mongan Toney, a Mi’kmaq fiddler and singer. They asked if anyone in the audience knew how to dance to fast-paced fiddle music, and I can still picture some of our East Coast friends who hopped along to the music in an incredible and artistic display. The crowd was roaring, and I thought to myself, “now this is not your typical conference!”