In 2000, the Guelph Community Foundation was founded by a small philanthropic group.
Almost 25 years later, the Foundation has distributed $13.5 million in 2,300 individual grants to local charitable programs.
We wish to thank Chris Willard for 11 years of leadership, which was executed with heart and professional integrity. His tenure included sitting with families in their grief, facilitating tax efficient options for meaningful legacy creation and helping those who want their financial resources to create positive impact. That was his work with donors. He also communicated the Foundation’s continued impact by relaying the personal journeys of a hardworking person or group in our community whose life could be significantly changed by a gift. Concurrently he supported the team, led projects and curated meaningful connections.
The Foundation is what it is today, in part, because of Chris’s leadership, thoughtfulness and knowledge.
The next chapter of the Guelph Community Foundation will launch from the strong footing created by Chris, his predecessors, and the staff and volunteer team members he worked alongside.
Thank you, Chris, for your time, focus and expertise. We wish you all the best in your next chapter.
The Guelph Community Foundation recognizes Chris’s final day as July 15, 2024.