About The Guelph Community Foundation
The Guelph Community Foundation helps you make your charitable giving easy, flexible and effective. We have in-depth knowledge of the community, its organizations, needs and opportunities. We have specialized knowledge about estate planning and the ways donors can maximize the value of their charitable giving. We combine these two areas of expertise to help donors fulfill their charitable goals, maximize their tax opportunities, and meet important needs in the community.
We are a tax-exempt public charity created by and for the people of Guelph and the surrounding community. Registered charitable # 86727 8350 RR0001.
PURPOSE
To strengthen and support our community through philanthropic leadership.
VISION
Inspired philanthropy as a trusted connection between people and causes within our community.
MISSION
To empower people and causes through evidence-based granting and donor support.
VALUES
Meeting Community Needs
As of the end of year 2025, the Foundation stewards $19.2 million in assets under management, including $18.1 million in endowed assets. In 2025, the Foundation distributed $13.6 million through 331 grants to 222 charities, supporting programs and initiatives that strengthen communities across Guelph, Wellington County, and beyond. We have administered more than 150 funds, helping donors direct their philanthropy toward causes such as arts and culture, children and youth, education, the environment, health and wellness, recreation, seniors, community vitality, animal welfare, and social services. We grant for breadth and impact to the widest possible needs and opportunities.
We are a Living Wage Employer
Guelph Community Foundation pays all full time, part time, and contract staff a Living Wage. We recognize that paying a living wage constitutes a critical investment in the long-term prosperity of the economy of our community by fostering a dedicated, skilled and healthy workforce. We also encourage all organizations that apply for funding to request enough to enable them to pay their staff a living wage.