We have hired:

Sarah Haanstra, Executive Director

The Guelph Community Foundation welcomes Sarah Haanstra as Executive Director to build on the 25-year history of the Foundation to strengthen and support our community through philanthropic leadership.  Sarah brings over 20 years of local leadership, most recently as Director of Integrated Programs at Guelph Community Health Centre. Over the years, Haanstra has worked with the Foundation on a number of projects, most notably as part of the research teams responsible for the last two Vital Signs reports and the 9-part Vital Focus series. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Sarah as the Guelph Community Foundation’s next Executive Director,” said Carly O’Brien, chair of the Guelph Community Foundation board of directors. “She brings a deep understanding of our community’s needs and a reputation as a respected local leader.” 

Since settling in Guelph almost 25 years ago, Sarah has been honoured as a Women of Distinction, served as a director of the Guelph Chamber of Commerce, while enjoying a busy family life and all Guelph has to offer. When getting ready for a meeting with Sarah, bring your walking shoes, as a Walk and Talk is her favourite meeting style.

“I am so ready to get started in this role where I get to match people who care about our community with the issues and causes that need support. The Guelph Community Foundation brings together 3 things I am deeply passionate about: My neighbours, building community, and taking meaningful action to address local needs.” ~ Sarah.

To ensure an effective transition, Sarah will formally join The Guelph Community Foundation March 31, 2025. 

For more information about local needs and ways to give, go to: www.guelphcf.ca 

Established in 2000, the Guelph Community Foundation will be celebrating 25 years of community service in 2025. We manage over $17M in endowed assets and in 2023/2024 granted $2.5M on behalf of donors to over 150 charities. In addition to funds we manage for individual and charitable fundholders, we have a number of community impact funds that we grant to charities within the community with support of our Grant Allocation Committee.

The Guelph Community Foundation is uniquely positioned to assist impact through strong relationships with donors, fundholders and the organizations doing the work. The Guelph Community Foundation convenes conversations, introductions and relationships to facilitate impact where needed.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• About the Guelph Community Foundation
• GCF Annual Report
• 2023 Vital Signs Report
• Community Foundations of Canada

Watch for opportunities to meet Sarah and engage with The Guelph Community Foundation.

The Executive Director is responsible for the successful leadership and management of the Foundation, reporting and responsible to the Board of Directors of the Foundation.

Vision & Strategy

• Participates with the Board in developing a vision and strategic plan to guide the Foundation
• Establishes major goals and objectives for the Foundation and directs and oversees short- and long-term plans to achieve those goals
• Works with Board of Directors on governance policy issues by providing support, initiating approved recommendations or actions, and implements policies established by the Board
• Identifies, assesses and informs the Board of Directors of internal and external issues that affect the Foundation
• Acts as professional advisor to the Board of Directors on all aspects of the Foundation’s activities

Fund Development & External Relations

• Oversees and participates in the development of fundraising plans, and provides stewardship to the Foundation’s major donors and other funders. These fundraising plans will include growing endowed funds, flow through funds, direct donations and stewardship activities.
• Manages a personal portfolio of key donor and partner prospects, including individuals, corporations and foundations
• Acts as spokesperson representing the Foundation to other agencies, community and civic organizations, donor, funders and supporters, and the general public
• Convene people and groups as a leader in the community

Financial Management

• Works with the Finance Manager and the Board’s Finance Committee to prepare comprehensive budgets
• Ensures that operating results established in the annual budget are achieved, and oversees control of operating expenses within established budgets
• Approves expenditures within the authority established by the Board of Directors

Leadership & Human Resources

• Develops and maintains organizational structure and effective staffing
• Provides leadership, direction and guidance around the Foundation’s activities
• Provides leadership to Foundation personnel through effective objective setting, delegation, and communication and performance management
• Maintains a competent and effective Foundation staff
• Coaches and mentors staff, as appropriate, to improve performance

Operational Planning and Management

• Ensures that the operation of the Foundation meets the expectations of its donors, partners, funders and Board of Directors, while maintaining the ethos and values of the Foundation
• Oversees, analyzes and evaluates the effectiveness of all Foundation operations, special events, and projects
• Accountable for the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of the Foundation
• Oversees staffing requirements for organizational management and service delivery