Saint John, NB Feb. 10, 2009 –The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is inviting community charitable organizations to participate in a novel approach to generate some income for their respective organizations to bridge the gap in their regular grant-making cycle. Local charities are being advised that the investment climate has necessitated a deferral of the foundation’s regular spring grant application process until September, 2009.

 “We have dual and sometimes competing responsibilities to the Canada Revenue Agency to both regularly make grants and not to encroach on gifts given in perpetuity” stated Dr. Stephen Willis, Vice-Chairman for the Community Foundation. He explains that both earnings and permanently held assets for most endowed foundations are being negatively affected by the current global economic conditions. “2008 has been a challenging year for investors around the globe, including charitable and community foundations, pension funds, universities and hospitals who hold endowments. Some have reluctantly temporarily curtailed granting. That is not the case for our Community Foundation, but our Board is carefully monitoring the economic indicators and our investments with the best interests of our community in mind, while being cognizant of the hopes and expectations of our donors and the causes we want to support. We ask for patience and understanding as we weather this unique and turbulent time, and wait for it to pass. It is encouraging that some of our donors have recently offered to contribute additional “pass-through” donations in order not to affect granting for the respective charitable causes they support”.

 Dr. Willis is a member of one of the musical groups donating their time and talents to good causes. “Swing into Spring” is a family variety show organized and paid for by the Greater Saint John Community Foundation as a public service and opportunity for community charities to fund-raise. The musical afternoon for all ages will feature Broadway tunes, Irish traditional, Brass Band, Pop and Rock and headline The Cool Chicks and the Ugly Doc-lings, Hal ‘N Tow, the School District 8 Band, the Saint John High cast of The Sound of Music and Shaggy Dogs. Charitable organizations, who will distribute and sell $10 tickets, will receive the entire proceeds of ticket sales back to their respective organizations. The offer is being made on a first come first served basis to local charitable groups, who often lack the resources to organize such an event on their own. It takes place Sunday, March 22, 2009, 2-4pm at Saint John High School Auditorium. The Community Foundation will also take this opportunity to present their Community Service Award to a deserving community member in recognition of outstanding service and to celebrate the generosity of their donors.

 The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area since 1976. Applications from local registered charities will be received for a September 30^th deadline.

Courts ask community foundations to distribute proceeds

The settlement stems from a price fixing case that resulted in Canadian manufacturers paying more for EPDM, which is used in automotive weather-stripping, garden and appliance hose and electrical insulation, to name a few. Several community foundations across Canada are being asked to participate in the opportunity resulting from this class action suit.

Examples of types of grants to meet transportation needs in our community to be considered might be:

·    helping children from low-income families secure transportation to participate in sporting events or a day centre for seniors’ transportation.

·    Projects to reduce vehicle emissions by providing options for ridesharing or other means of alternative transportation.

“Community foundations have now distributed more than $1.2 million to charities from coast to coast from various class action settlements, said Monica Patten, President and Chief Executive Officer, Community Foundations of Canada. “We’re pleased to see dollars making their way back into communities and are happy to assist the courts in whatever way we can.”

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $9 Million. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15^th and September 30^th.

Community Foundations of Canada

Community Foundations of Canada (CFC) is the national membership organization for the 164 community foundations found in cities, towns and rural areas across the country. With more than $2.9-billion in assets, the community foundation movement is one of Canada’s largest grantmakers, providing more than $176-million in grants last year to thousands of charities.

NOTE:  Background on the case is available at www.classaction.ca/content/actions/ethylene.asp. The settlement can be found at http://www.classaction.ca/pdf/Distribution_Protocol_EPDM.pdf.

September 16, 2008                           

Community Foundation Water Event Generating Interest

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is anticipating a capacity crowd at their upcoming public event, “Drinking Water: Challenges Today and Tomorrow”. It takes place Friday, September 26^th at UNB-Saint John’s uptown Grand Hall on King Square from 11am-2pm. Organized as a community service, the Community Foundation has been attracting interest from consumers, environmental organizations, the business community and students, as well as municipal leaders. One of the Community Foundation’s roles as a community leader is to better inform the public on issues of critical public concern.

Cheryl Robertson, Chair of the Foundation’s Environment Committee stated “We believe that there is keen interest and a need to inform citizens on the critical importance of water in our lives and communities. Where does it come from? How plentiful and sustainable is the supply?  How safe is it? How is it used and by whom? What can I /we do to ensure and preserve safe, clean water?” She added, “As the months of planning have gone by, it appears interest in water is on the rise”.

Dr. Todd Arsenault, Drinking Water Specialist with the New Brunswick Dept. of Environment, will be addressing the group on the Province’s role in regulating and protecting public and private water supplies. Brent McGovern, of the City of Saint John, is coordinating a joint presentation from local municipalities to ensure all attending will learn about their water supply regardless of whether it comes from a private well, or municipal sources. Local and provincial environmental groups and municipalities are expected to have displays on the mandates of their specific organizations.

The keynote address will be given by Jack Hoffbuhr, a noted international expert on municipal water systems, and recently retired Executive Director of the 60,000 member strong American Water Works Association. Michael Doyle, FCA, Chairman of the Community Foundation states “We are very pleased with the level of support and cooperation our Foundation has received from all the municipalities of greater Saint John: the City of Saint John, the Towns of Grand Bay-Westfield, Rothesay, Hampton and Quispamsis and the Village of St. Martins” . The Foundation has secured sponsorship from local municipalities, the Atlantic Canada Water Works Association (ACWWA), UNB-Saint John and AVW TelAv enabling the session to be open to the public at no cost. Pre-registration is required.

Mr. Hoffbuhr is an engineer who has had a distinguished career spanning all aspects of the water industry from design and construction, to operation and training ranging across small rural communities to the largest American water supply systems. He also held positions with the Peace Corps, US Public Health Service and the Environmental Protection Agency. Mr. Hoffbuhr’s insightful views on how the industry has changed, its current state and future water-related trends should be invaluable.

Efforts by the organizing committee have resulted in opportunities to take advantage of Mr. Hoffbuhr’s expertise in several other ways. Students, faculty and the public can hear a preview of Mr. Hoffbuhr’s address at UNB-Saint John on Thursday evening, Sept. 25, in Hazen Hall lecture theatre at 7pm.  Staffs of local municipalities will participate in a more technical session at Lily Lake on Thursday afternoon. He will also be making himself available to the media for interviews.

“Drinking Water: Challenges Today and Tomorrow” fast facts:

Place: UNB-Saint John’s uptown Grand Hall on King Square

Date: Friday, Sept. 26, 11:00am-2pm, Displays open, Lunch 11:45am, Keynote speakers noon -1:30pm

Luncheon Tickets: no charge (to reserve please call the Greater Saint John Community Foudation-672-8880 or e-mail sjfoundation@nb.aibn.com  by Sept. 20)

Order of Presentations: Brent McGovern and representatives of municipalities of Greater Saint John; Dr. Todd Arsenault, Drinking Water Specialist, NB Dept. Of Environment,

Jack Hoffbuhr, P.E., retired Executive Director, American Water Works Association.

August 14, 2008                                                  

Community Foundation Entrusted with Five New Funds

Community Foundation Board members and supporters will be celebrating local philanthropy and community service tomorrow, August 15, 2-4pm, at a Donor Appreciation Tea at Chateau de Champlain, 300 Boar’s Head Road. Over one quarter Million dollars ($299,000) in new gifts have been contributed to the Greater Saint John Community Foundation by community-minded donors in the current fiscal year. They are being honoured for their generosity. Board Chairman Michael Doyle will announce the establishment of five new funds: the James M. Crosby Fund, the Brian Lund Memorial Fund, the Garfield T. Meltzer-Jewish War Veterans Scholarship Fund, the St. Barnabas Chapel of Ease Fund and the Alan B. and Joyce E. McLean Fund. The Foundation’s Patron, Lieutenant Governor Hermenegilde Chiasson, will be present to add his congratulations and thanks. In addition to the new funds, several significant gifts have been received and assets transferred in the past six months.

The James M. Crosby Fund has been established to pay tribute to one of the Foundation’s founding board members thirty-two years ago and his contributions to family, the community as well as achievements in his family business, Crosby Molasses.

The new Garfield T. Meltzer-Jewish War Veterans Scholarship Fund pays dual tributes to Mr. Meltzer, an ardent and active war veteran, who was a driving force behind the local and national Jewish War Veterans organizations, who are also honoured by the fund. The annual scholarship will be awarded to a graduate of Saint John High School, who best demonstrates Mr. Meltzer’s qualities of devotion to family and community and who has written an essay on the importance of valuing human rights and eliminating discrimination.

Friends and family of the late Brian Lund have rallied to inaugurate the Brian Lund Memorial Fund. Annual earnings from the permanently endowed fund will go to PRO Kids, an organization which provides positive recreational opportunities for children, whose families may otherwise not be in a position to provide them. This was a cause supported by Mr. Lund, who passed away very unexpectedly.

The Alan B. and Joyce E. McLean Fund is being established by Mrs. McLean who says she “cannot say enough good things about her late husband”, a successful Saint John businessman and quiet philanthropist. It will benefit all charitable causes supported twice-yearly by the Community Foundation.

The St. Barnabas Chapel of Ease Fund will benefit various social service-related causes, with a special emphasis on seniors and single parent families. The historic Anglican church on Sandy Point Road has been de-consecrated and recently sold as its congregation dwindled. The group is determined to retain its memory as a unique and special place of worship.

In addition to the newly announced funds, tribute will be paid to the late Timothy Lantalum and a foundation he established to benefit needy children in memory of his parents. These assets were originally entrusted to the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception, who have recently transferred the assets for the same purpose to the Community Foundation. Professional Visual Artists who have established a Fund and augmented it with a popular fundraiser “WhoDunIt?” this year, the late Philip Emmerson, a Saint John businessman, the late Cindy Kidd and all donors will also be honoured for their generosity. Ms. Kidd has established a Fund to benefit the Saint John Boys and Girls Club. Several local charitable groups, who have received support from the foundation will be on hand to profile the work of their organizations and how they have been assisted by it.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $9 M. In 2007, it donated in excess of $318,000.00 to over 75 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly.

July 11, 2008

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is announcing details of a special anniversary grant commitment of $30,000 they will provide to The Crescent Valley Resource Centre and its Flemming Court Park Project at a ceremony Monday, 11:30am, July 14th. The donation is being characterized as a way of challenging the community to take up the cause of one of Saint John’s vulnerable neighbourhoods in need of community support. It will support several elements of the North End community’s Crescent Valley-Renew Our Community’s Community Action Plan for 2007-8. The announcement will take place at 130 MacLaren Boulevard, in conjunction with the official opening of The Crescent Valley Resource Centre.

The Anniversary Grant was inaugurated in 2006 to mark the Community Foundation’s thirtieth anniversary. Each year, the major award of $30,000, or $15,000 in two segments, spring and fall, goes to a community charitable group which best address clearly documented priorities in Greater Saint John. The Foundation’s annual Report Card on Greater Saint John’s quality of life, Vitals Signs, has identified a number of challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, housing, childhood obesity and lack of physical activity which will be tackled in this community action plan.

 “Our Community Foundation was established in 1976 to improve the quality of life for our citizens” said Michael Doyle, Foundation Chairman, who will make the announcement. “Often a modest grant will go a long way, but occasionally, a more substantial sum can truly make a difference to a charitable group. It may dream of a unique project but have few potential funding sources and struggle just to make ends meet. We evaluated many excellent projects put forward along with many regular applications for funding.  We congratulate The Crescent Valley Resource Centre, for making their voices heard and setting new goals for their neighbourhood ” he added. Anniversary grants can positively affect the arts, social services, health, education, the environment, heritage or recreation and have been awarded to First Steps, the Salvation Army and the Saint John YM-YWCA to date. Public spirited donors can continue to contribute to the Community Foundation’s Anniversary Fund, which is permanently endowed and continues to provide funding for Anniversary Grants each year.

The neighbourhood  group of 388 households (88 dwellings are being razed and will be replaced  through a community consultative process with a wider range of housing options) has created a mission statement “ To create together-residents and community partners-a clean, safe, peaceful neighbourhood for people of all ages and abilities, with trees and green spaces, opportunities for work, education and training, access to services, pleasing homes, roadways and sidewalks and no crime...a people place where respect, responsibility, care and cooperation are the community values”. Five goals were identified as part of the Crescent Valley-Renew Our Community’s (CV-ROC) Community Action Plan for 2007-8. This project will help achieve two of those: “Improve roads and landscape and show respect and grow respect inside and outside our community.”

“The Greening of Flemming Court” is a project designed to transform a vacant space, bounded by the u-shaped Flemming Court and MacLaren Boulevard and opposite the CVRC, into a place of natural beauty, with shrubs, trees and flowers. Youth of the neighbourhood participated in a series of collaborative sessions to identify what they wanted, aspired to and what would serve their community best. They will contribute efforts to implement the plan, once work begins. A gazebo and splashpad for children are major components. Storytent, a project of the Saint John Free Public Library, which also has been financially supported by the foundation, is hoping to utilize this space.

Forty-three other charitable causes are included in the $132,805 in grants announced (see attached).

The Foundation has surpassed the $4.4 Million mark in cumulative grants since inception. In 2007, it donated in excess of $318,000.00 to more than 70 local charities. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to over $9 M. The endowments encompass thirty distinct funds, all of which benefit Greater Saint John.. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15^th and September 30^th.

July 10, 2008                           

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is announcing an upcoming public event, “Drinking Water: Challenges Today and Tomorrow” as a community service. It is expected to attract interest from consumers, environmental organizations, the business community and a large number of young people, as well as municipal leaders. It is scheduled for Friday, September 26^th at UNB-Saint John’s uptown Grand Hall on King Square.

Cheryl Robertson, Chair of the Foundation’s Environment Committee stated “We believe that there is keen interest in this up and coming issue and a need to inform citizens on basic questions. We want to give advance notice to heighten the awareness of the critical importance of water in our lives and communities. Where does it come from? How plentiful and sustainable is the supply?  How safe is it? How is it used and by whom? What can I /we do to ensure and preserve safe, clean water?” She added, “We hope by giving advance notice that local educational institutions and other related groups will plan to attend and possibly mount a display”.

“The keynote address will be given by Jack Hoffbuhr, a noted international expert on municipal water systems, and recently retired Executive Director of the 60,000 member strong American Water Works Association. It will be an opportunity for awareness-raising, not fundraising” said Michael Doyle, FCA Chairman of the Community Foundation.  “We are very pleased with the level of support and cooperation our Foundation has received from all the municipalities of greater Saint John: the City of Saint John, the Towns of Grand Bay-Westfield, Rothesay, Hampton and Quispamsis and the Village of St. Martin’s, over the last three months of planning” he added. The three hour session at the UNB-Saint John’s Grand Hall, King Square, will be open to the public at no cost and is being organized by the Greater Saint John Community Foundation in an effort to better inform the public on issues of critical public concern. The Foundation has secured sponsorship from local municipalities and the Atlantic Canada Water Works Association (ACWWA).

Mr. Hoffbuhr is an engineer who has had a distinguished career spanning all aspects of the water industry from design and construction, to operation and training. His work ranged from the Peace Corps, located in small rural communities to the largest American water supply systems. He held positions with the US Public Health Service and the Environmental Protection Agency. Mr. Hoffbuhr’s insightful views on how the industry has changed, its current state and what the future holds should be invaluable.

He states that the seven leading water trends are:

1. Asset management will become a critical issue.

2. Environmental regulations will become more stringent.

3. Utility effectiveness and efficiencies will be under constant review.

4. Good customer relations will be crucial to success.

5. Security and emergency preparedness will be a way of life.

6. Use of technology will continue to accelerate.

7. Total water management will be essential.

Those attending will not only learn about drinking water issues in the big picture but also from the provincial perspective.  Dr. Todd Arsenault, Drinking Water Specialist with the New Brunswick Dept. of Environment, will also be addressing the group on the Province’s role in protecting, testing and supporting public and private water supplies. Brent McGovern, of the City of Saint John, is coordinating a joint presentation from local municipalities to ensure all attending will learn about water from various perspectives regardless of whether it comes from a private well, or municipal sources. More than a dozen local and provincial environmental groups and municipalities are expected to have displays on the mandates of their specific organizations. The Foundation extends an invitation to related groups interested in participating to contact the Foundation office. 

Place: UNB-Saint John’s uptown Grand Hall on King Square

Date: Friday, Sept. 26, 11:00am-2pm, Displays open, Lunch 11:45am, Keynote speakers noon -1:30pm

Luncheon Tickets: no charge (to reserve please call 672-8880 by Sept. 20)

Order of Presentations: Brent McGovern and representatives of municipalities of Greater Saint John; Dr. Todd Arsenault, Drinking Water Specialist, NB Dept. Of Environment

Jack Hoffbuhr, P.E., retired Executive Director, American Water Works Association.

May 20, 2008

Community Foundation Announces Garden Adoptions for Harbour Passage Garden Party

Volunteers, businesses and community groups are encouraged to turn out individually or as groups to put on our area’s finest face this Saturday May 24^th from 9am to 1pm at the Fifth Annual Harbour Passage Garden Party.   The event is organized by the Greater Saint John Community Foundation as a positive way to generate community pride. Co-Chairs Karen Speight and Brenda Lutz are preparing for national attention which will be coming our way the following Tuesday when Harbour Passage is designated part of the Trans Canada Trail by well-known broadcast journalist Valerie Pringle, volunteer Chair of the TCT. Teams who organize in advance and commit to maintaining their adopted garden over the growing season along the Passage will be permitted to place their name on them for the first time this year. Twelve teams are already on board, including Saint John Kiwanis Club, Hilton Hotel, Home Depot, Kinek Technologies, Canty Lutz Delaquis Grant, ONE (Old North End) Change, Key Industries, Aktion Club, the Saint John Board of Trade, Citizens for Fort LaTour, Enterprise Saint John, FUSION and Saint John Alzheimer Society.  

No fundraising is needed, just a few hours of time. With many uptown businesses’ employees taking to the popular trail at lunch and break-times, the Co-Chairs believe it’s a small way to give back for the enjoyment of being able to take a waterfront walk in the centre of the city.

Some sixty community partners and hundreds of participants are expected. Attendees including Mayor-elect Ivan Court, will centre their morning activity under the Harbour Bridge near HMCS Brunswicker this year as planting, weeding, cleanup and spreading mulch and compost takes place on Phases 1 & 2. Some of the other forty plus Garden Party partners include: The Greater Saint John Community Foundation, Saint John Waterfront Development, City of Saint John, Citizens for Fort LaTour, Key Industries, the Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission, J.D.Irving Limited, Telegraph-Journal, CBC Radio, Saint John Harbour Bridge Authority, Saint John Horticultural Association, Tim Hortons restaurants (city centre), Mayfield Nurseries, Halifax Seed and local gardeners.

Plant, shrub and tree donations are being solicited from the public, for both Harbour Passage and other community garden projects in advance on Friday, May 23, 4:30pm-7pm near the site of the Harbour Lights Tree. Brenda Lutz is delighted to be receiving a large number of rose bushes from the future site of a new condo development on Water Street which are potted and ready for re-planting. Gardeners thinning out their perennials are invited to donate them to the cause. “She and Karen Speight are both active gardeners, who have contributed significant time, talent and gifts from their own gardens for the pleasure of our community” stated Michael Doyle, foundation Chairman.  Karen Speight is recruiting experienced gardeners to oversee the beds along the trail, which will be numbered and categorized according to the plantings specified in the overall landscape plan.

Mike Montgomery President of CUPE Local 18, is organizing his members to put on a barbeque with proceeds going to charitable causes. Entertainment with the Park Avenue Fiddlers takes place on the J.D. Irving sound stage and there will be draws for prizes. Participants are encouraged to bring along their own gardening tools and equipment. Free parking will be available at the trailhead near Red Rose Tea and Smythe St. and near H.M.C.S. Brunswicker. If weather is very inclement, Sunday, May 27 (same time) has been designated as the rain date.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. In 2007, it donated in excess of $318,000 to over 70 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly.

For further information contact:

Jane Barry, Executive Director, P.O. Box 20061, Brunswick Sq., Saint John, N.B. E2L 5B2    Street address: Business Resource Centre, 40 King St., Saint John, NB

tel. 506-672-8880  fax. 506-672-8881   www.saint-john-foundation.nb.ca

sjfoundation@nb.aibn.com 

Brenda Lutz, Q.C. 658-0664                         Karen Speight 694-1253

April 2, 2008 

Community Foundation Invites Grant Applications

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is inviting grant applications for regular grants and their $15,000 Anniversary Grant. Applicants must be a registered charity, within a 50km. radius of Saint John. The Anniversary Grant will go to the proposal which best addresses clearly documented priorities in our community. A group may apply for the anniversary grant, in addition to a regular grant, by submitting separate, clearly identified documents. Proposals which can positively affect the arts, social services, health, education, the environment, heritage or recreation must be received by Thursday, April 15th.   

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly.

March 10, 2008

As St Patrick’s Week is marked, the Greater Saint John Community Foundation is paying tribute to a philanthropist of Irish origin, whose foundation has been entrusted to them for the benefit of local children. The Lantalum Foundation was established under the last will and testament of Timothy T. Lantalum in memory of his parents, James and Margaret Lantalum, who were of Irish descent. Timothy T. Lantalum (1858-1930), a prominent and well-liked citizen of Saint John, NB, was active in civic and community affairs. He was respected as an assessor, broker, auctioneer, Saint John alderman, patron of the arts and music, athlete and yachtsman who loved the Kennebecasis River. He had an abiding interest in child welfare. His concern for orphans led him to provide for them on his passing in 1930, through the orphanages and homes in the Saint John area, which were run by the Sisters of Charity.

Through the generosity of the late Timothy T. Lantalum, the Sisters of Charity were entrusted with the Lantalum Foundation for the benefit of needy children for many decades.  These assets have now been transferred to the Greater Saint John Community Foundation, which has an awareness of children’s needs and the many community charitable organizations to which support can be given. The Board of Directors is honoured to have been given responsibility for continuing the generous tradition which Mr. Lantalum and the Sisters of Charity have pursued. “We are always pleased to assist children, and grateful to have been entrusted with the Lantalum Foundation” said Michael Doyle, FCA, Chairman of the Community Foundation’s board.    

The Foundation also released details of grants they provided to Saint John area charities, much of which positively impacts on children, totaling over $318,000 for the fiscal year 2006-7. Sectors benefiting range from the arts to social services, health, education, the environment and recreation. 

The Anniversary Grant was inaugurated in 2006 to mark the Community Foundation’s thirtieth anniversary. Each year, the major award of $30,000, is divided between two proposals, spring and fall, which best address clearly documented priorities in Greater Saint John. The Spring 2007 anniversary grant of $15,000 went to The Salvation Army’s Booth Residential Services, cooinciding with the St. James Street Centre’s Twenty-Fifth Anniversary. As a place of refuge and rest, with twenty five years at their St. James Street location, new beds, mattresses and box springs were needed. 

The Fall Anniversary Grant has been awarded to the YM-YWCA for an inner-city schoolchildren’s two-pronged, physical education program called “Y Rocks”. It will help address healthy, active-living issues, and is in keeping with Timothy Lantalum’s Foundation’s intent. The boulder-climbing, activity-based equipment and the exercise, dance and music coordination program is expected to be operational shortly at their Prince Edward Sqare location. The Community Foundation’s annual Vital Signs Report helps measure quality of life indicators and identify areas of community need. In the Report’s Health indicators area of study, lack of physical activity and obesity, particularly among children of low-income families, were highlighted. Public spirited donors can continue to contribute to the Community Foundation’s Anniversary Fund, which is permanently endowed and continues to provide funding for Anniversary Grants each year.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $9 M. In 2006-7; it donated in excess of $318,000.00 to 75 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15^th and September 30^th.

January 21, 2008

Foundation aims to keep kids in motion

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is passing on information about a Foundation which aims to keep kids in motion, Kids ‘n Motion. The statistics are revealing. More than half our children are not active enough to meet international guidelines for optimal growth and development. Our province and country, which receive low marks on the fitness and recreational opportunities available to our children and youth, are aware of this issue.

If your registered charity is trying to change that reality, you may want to find out more about Kids ‘n Motion, an endowment fund created by BMO Employee Charitable Foundation, BMO Financial Group.

Kids ‘n Motion is dedicated to addressing the health risks associated with physical inactivity and obesity among children and youth, including those who are physically or mentally challenged, or financially disadvantaged.

Working together with Community Foundations of Canada (www.cfc-fcc.ca), the Kids ‘n Motion program supports charities across Canada that focus on keeping children healthy and active. The foundation is a non-profit charitable organization, established by the employees of BMO Financial Group to collect and distribute employee donations to registered Canadian charities.

How does my registered Canadian charity apply?

Applications are being accepted by the Foundation for Kids ‘n Motion  grants right now.

·        Visit http://www.bmoemployeecharitablefoundation.ca/kids-motion.html to download the grant application

·        Final application deadline: February 28, 2008

·        Final decisions announced: April 30, 2008

·        You can also link through the Greater Saint John Community Foundation’s web-site, www.saint-john-foundation.nb.ca

What does Kids ‘n Motion support?

Since 2004, Kids ‘n Motion has supported dozens of registered charities across Canada including:

• I CAN Therapeutic Equestrian Riding Association: enabling children with physical and mental challenges to attend a one-week therapeutic riding program.
• Kids Can Play Association: helping children from financially disadvantaged families enrol in recreational activities including sports, music, dance, and martial arts
• YMCA: enabling inner-city youth to experience summer camp and nature for the first time by participating in a week-long ‘Eco-Games’ program.
• Kidsport: purchasing bicycles and helmets for a seven-week fitness program that taught 210 disadvantaged children safety biking skills.

The funding available in each region is determined by the donations received from employees in that region.

What if I can’t make the deadline?

If you miss this year’s deadline, you can re-submit your application during the next grant cycle which begins November 1^st.

For more information visit www.bmoemployeecharitablefoundation.ca or www.saint-john-foundation.nb.ca

December 20, 2007

 Visual Arts Fund bolstered by WhoDunIt Event

December 17, 2007

     Local heritage or restoration/renovation project that benefits the local community and involves the use of paint.

     The applicant organization is a registered Canadian charity or is sponsored by a municipality.

     Volunteers from the local community are engaged in the project.

     Project is willing to involve a local Benjamin Moore retailer for product expertise and other support.

     Project is willing to participate in local public relations activities to publicize the program and Benjamin Moore's participation.

November 14, 2007                               

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD TO CAPTAIN HAROLD MAYES
Ceremony to honour community volunteer and Saint John Salvage Corps and Fire Police Captain

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has announced that Captain Harold Mayes will be awarded their 2007 Community Service Award at a ceremony at City Hall on November 15 at 12 noon.  Michael Doyle, FCA, Foundation Board Chairman and Board Member Mayor Norman McFarlane will be present to recognize the significant contributions of Captain Mayes for over sixty years of community leadership and service.

“We are indebted to people like Captain Mayes, who never seek personal gain for their dedicated community service. He quietly and effectively volunteers for the protection of life, security and property in Greater Saint John.” said Michael Doyle, Chairman of the Community Foundation’s board. “Captain Mayes’ commitment to dozens of community organizations through his leadership of the Saint John Salvage Corps and Fire Police make him an ideal candidate for recognition and appreciation” he concluded. 

The Salvage Corps has a unique and enduring place in Saint John's history of public service organizations. Since 1850, it has offered security, salvage and safety to the public, many of whom have suffered loss through fire or some type of natural or man-made disaster. In the early years, the group actually salvaged and protected property that survived a fire, for its owners. The all-volunteer group is backed the City of Saint John, providing organizations with security, traffic and crowd control and safety services. They are a familiar sight at events such as the Canada Day fireworks; Imperial Theatre performances, when students may be bused in; the Greater Saint John Community Foundation's Harbour Passage Garden Party or cruise ship arrivals. The Rally of Hope, The Relay for Life, Rocmaura Nursing Home, Saint John Regional Hospital, and St. Joseph’s Hospital have all benefited from his efforts.

Like the team he heads, Capt. Harold Mayes also has an enduring and amazing record of service. He first volunteered for the Lancaster Fire Department. He is retiring as captain of the Salvage Corps at age 81. For 62 years, he has given freely of his time and energy. His successor will soon be named. Mayes has been recognized for his service to former city of Lancaster and is a proud honorary member of the Saint John Fire Fighters Local 773. He has donated more than 200 treasured toy fire trucks to the Firefighters Museum and is still collecting more. Mayes has tremendous stamina, usually escorting cruise ship passengers safely across Water Street for eight- to 10-hour stints. He and his late wife, Helen, have always made Saint John home.
In recognition of his contributions to the community, The Greater Saint John Community Foundation will express their appreciation by making a grant of $5,000 to The Harbour Lights Campaign in support of Food Banks in Southwestern New Brunswick, community charities which are of particular significance to Captain Mayes. Deborah Irvine, Executive Producer of CBC, will be present for the event.

Mrs. Jean Irving, Thomas L. McGloan, Q.C. and The Sisters of Charity of The Immaculate Conception have been honoured with the Community Service Award in the past. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to over $9.3 M. In 2006; it donated in excess of $323,000.00 to more than 70 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15th and September 30th.

November 12, 2007

National Philanthropy Day to be Marked by Community Foundation

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation will be offering Saint John area Professional Advisors and the public an educational Session, entitled “Maximizing Donations of Equities and Life Insurance to Your Client’s Advantage”, Wednesday Nov. 14, 2007, 7:15am –9am, to mark National Philanthropy Day, at The Saint John Arts Centre, Hazen Ave.

Expert advice will be available from professionals in the legal, accounting, financial planning and insurance fields. Guest presenters will be Gregg Knudsen, B.A., L.L.B., T.E.P., Will & Estate Consultant, RBC; Jack Blackier, FCA, L.L.B., NB Institute of Chartered Accountants and Barry Spalding Law Firm; Roger Haineault, Help4Taxes; and Brian Clark, CFP, CLU, Estate and Insurance Advisor, BMO Nesbitt Burns. Tom Gribbons of RBC Dominion Securities will moderate.

Lawyers, Chartered Accountants, insurance and investment professionals and members of the financial planning community have been invited and can utilize the session as part of their professional development. “We are also inviting the public and will be focusing on the donation of equities this year, due to the changes in federal capitals gains taxes which have already attracted millions of dollars in gifts to Canadian registered charities”  said Jane Barry, Executive Director of the Greater Saint John Community Foundation. “We know many shareholders of Bell Canada may not realize until it’s too late that the anticipated sale of Bell Canada (BCE) early next year, will trigger capital gains taxes. Generous donors may wish to take advantage of the elimination of capital gains taxes when they support local causes by donating equities like BCE ” she added.

“The Professional Advisors e-Resource, a web-based e-tool for professional advisors, is a click away” said Mrs. Barry. “By connecting to the foundation’s web-site anyone can utilize the most up-to-date information on estate, gift, tax and financial planning as well as philanthropy through charitable giving. As of October, 2007, donations of equities can be made online through a portal offered by Canada Helps.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $9.3 M. In 2006, it donated in excess of $323,000.00 to over 70 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly. The Nov. 14 event is open to all at no cost with pre-registration encouraged. A continental breakfast is being offered.

October 2, 2007

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION RELEASES ANNUAL CHECKUP

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is releasing a unique report, “Greater Saint John’s Vital Signs®”, today on the quality of life in Greater Saint John. Vital Signs® is an annual community check-up conducted by community foundations across Canada that measures the vitality of our cities, identifies significant trends, and assigns grades in at least ten areas critical to quality of life, using data compiled from many national, provincial and local sources.. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is part of this national effort. Vital Signs® is based on a project of the Toronto Community Foundation and is coordinated nationally by Community Foundations of Canada.

 “Our Community Foundation was established in 1976 to improve the quality of life for our citizens” said Michael Doyle, Foundation Chairman. “With the support of our national membership organization, Community Foundations of Canada, we have embarked on a ten year project to gather and present data of wide benefit to all sectors of our community” he added.

“Greater Saint John’s Vital Signs” displays economic and social data in ten broad categories or Indicators. They are: Population, Housing, Work, Belonging & Leadership, Safety, Health, Environment, Learning, Arts & Culture and The Gap between Rich and Poor. The aim is to ensure that the report has fairly, comprehensively and accurately described our community using the best data available. It is a quality of life measurement tool for community groups, leaders, businesses and researchers which will be repeated annually. It is posted on the Community Foundation’s and HDC’s web-sites.

This project of Community Foundations of Canada, whose members number one hundred fifty seven community foundations, is being launched in eleven Canadian communities today: Toronto , Sudbury , Vancouver , Victoria , the Waterloo Region, Ottawa , Montreal , Medicine Hat , Red Deer , Calgary and Greater Saint John. Participating Community Foundations are including community grading, wherein groups of community leaders assess and grade progress in the indicator areas. Over the spring and summer, sessions with local community leaders reviewed data sources, both national and local, and gave their input into a “Star” grading for each data set, forming the basis for Greater Saint John’s “report card”.

Positive local data on high employment rates, relatively modest housing costs, educational attainment, charitable giving and the substantial successes of local programs such, Mental Health Court and First Steps are being reported.  There are some trends and challenges which the Community Foundation is drawing to the community’s attention such as poverty, static population growth, and literacy levels.

Community Foundations of Canada is simultaneously releasing their national Vital Signs Report which will highlight trends in participating communities. Monica Patten , President and Chief Executive Officer of Community Foundations of Canada, states "is it enough just to raise awareness? No. We hope all of the important community players see this as a call to action." The national report, along with Greater Saint John’s Vital Signs report, and an overview, will be launched at their office, 40 King St. at 10am , October 2. All are welcome.

Last November, The Greater Saint John Community Foundation released a community “report card”, “Taking Stock”,  as a Thirtieth Anniversary project and precursor to the national Vital Signs® effort . The assessment of the vitality of the community, using national indicators, and local data is useful in charting the future. They have commissioned the Saint John Human Development Council , a social planning agency, with wide knowledge of our community, to produce the 2006 and 2007 reports. The research undertaken relied in part, on the partnership of the HDC and UNB-Saint John in their 5 year Community University Research Alliance project.

The Foundation has marked a granting milestone, having surpassed the $4.2 Million mark in cumulative grants since inception. In 2006, it donated in excess of $323,000.00 to approximately 80 local charities. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to over $9 Million. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15^th and September 30^th.

• The Vital Signs® trademark is used with permission from the Toronto Community Foundation.
• Vital Signs® reports can be viewed or downloaded at www.vitalsignscanada.ca.

www.saint-john-foundation.nb.ca   or  www.humandevelopmentcouncil.nb.ca

 September 18, 2007

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SET TO RELEASE LOCAL VITAL SIGNS® REPORT AS PART OF NATIONAL INITIATIVE                                                                    

The eleven Community foundations to be releasing local Vital Signs® reports are:

·        Saint John *

·        Victoria

·        Vancouver

·        Calgary *

·        Medicine Hat *

·        Red Deer *

·        Ottawa

·        Toronto

·        Sudbury *

·        Waterloo Region*

·        Montreal

Community Foundation Confirms Anniversary Grants For 2007 Community Priorities

Foundation Expanding to New Premises

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is inviting proposals for year two of their anniversary grants. The grants, valued at an annual total of $30,000, will be awarded twice-yearly, $15,000 in the spring and $15,000 in the fall. They will provide a substantive boost to Greater Saint John area charities, along with the financial support which the Community Foundation has been providing regularly for the last thirty years. The awards were established in 2006, to mark the Foundation’s thirtieth year of service to local charitable causes. The anniversary grants will go to the proposals which best address clearly documented priorities in Greater Saint John. A group may apply for it in addition to a regular grant application, but must submit a separate, clearly identified application by April 15 or September 30. It will be considered, along with other grant applications at the same time, but applicants must indicate if they intend to be considered.

Applicants for grants choosing to mail their submissions will see no change with regard to mailing address, deadline dates, telephone, fax, web-site or e-mail. However, the Foundation is changing their street/office address as of March 30, 2007. It will be in the Business Resource Centre, 40 King St., 4th floor. Elevator access is via the 77 Germain Street entrance. “As our Foundation grows, it is time to move to quarters which will complement continued growth and service to local charities and the community”, stated Michael Doyle, Foundation Chairman. “We have experienced a five-fold increase in requests for financial support since we first opened our office in 2000. In addition, our assets have almost tripled to over $9 Million”, he added. All other contact information remains unchanged.

March 15, 2007

Community Foundation Announces New Fund for Belleisle Area Students

Community Foundation and Belleisle Valley Health Centre Inc. representatives will be celebrating community generosity and support for youth today. Board President of the Health Centre, Brian T. R. Teed, is pleased the Community Foundation has taken over responsibility for funds which the Health Centre has raised and been entrusted with for several decades. Mr. Teed and Bev Stevens, Secretary-Treasurer of the group, will join the board of the Community Foundation for a scholarship fund signing ceremony today.

A home and office property, originally constructed for the purpose of attracting and retaining a physician for the Belleisle community, became a reality through community fundraising but had served its purpose. With changing times and the short supply of doctors, the centre closed and was sold several years ago. The fund is being set up with the proceeds from its disposition. The Board, wishing to give back to their community, while keeping a link to health, has donated $60,000 to The Greater Saint John Community Foundation. This new, permanently endowed fund, will annually support scholarships for graduates of Belleisle Regional High School entering a post-secondary institution the following fall. The selection will be made annually by the senior administrative staff of the High School, based on a combination of academic success, community leadership and financial need. Preference will be given to students pursuing studies in the health care field. Initially, the fund shall award at least three (3) one thousand dollar ($1,000) scholarships, earnings permitting and be available this fall for the first time. Applications for the bursary can be directed to Dave Madden, Principal, Belleisle Regional High School.

“Your initiative, as long-standing supporters of Belleisle community health, and for graduates of the Belleisle area, pursuing post-secondary education, is to be commended”, said Michael Doyle, FCA, Chairman of the Community Foundation. “It is encouraging to have generous benefactors like the Belleisle Valley Health Centre Inc. come forward, who have been dedicated to improving the quality of life in their community”, he added. Many groups appreciate the Community Foundation’s flexibility and ability to receive funds for permanent endowment while relieving them of the management responsibilities and ensuring their identity is retained even when they may be winding down their organization’s affairs.

Last year the foundation supported awards valued over $11,000 from several permanently endowed funds and gifts including: The Dr. Malcolm Somerville Bursaries in Business, The Saint John Law Society Bursary, the Cook Family Bursary, Supersteel Band Bursary, C.N. Wilson Scholarships, the Margaret Willis Awards and the Florence Christie Bursary.

Brian T.R. Teed 653-1224

March 15, 2007

Community Foundation Entrusted with CFUW Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Board members and the Canadian Federation of University Women-Saint John will be celebrating local philanthropy and education today. Club President Ann Barrett is pleased the Community Foundation has taken over responsibility for funds which her organization has raised over several decades. Mrs. Barrett and Executive members of the group will join the board of the Community Foundation for a sixty-four thousand dollar scholarship fund signing ceremony today.

CFUW-Saint John is a women’s organization established in 1924. It is a member of The Canadian Federation of University Women, a voluntary, non-profit, self-funded bilingual organization of over 10,000 women university graduates in 122 member clubs. They are active in public affairs, working to raise the social, economic and legal status of women, as well as to improve education, the environment, peace, justice and human rights, and a member affiliate of the International Federation of University Women. By donating $64,000 to The Greater Saint John Community Foundation a new, permanently endowed fund will be created. It will annually support three scholarships for women from the Saint John area who are or will be enrolled as full-time university students. They are: $1,000, CFUW-Saint John Entrance Scholarship; $1,500 Jean Flemming Memorial Scholarship for Mature Students and $1,500, Lillian D. and Charles R. Bone Memorial Scholarship for Post-Graduate Study. Jean Flemming was a past club President and Lillian D. Bone a past club member. The selection will be made annually by the club’s scholarship Committee. Applications for the scholarships can be directed to Kathleen Foster, Chair, and CFUW-Saint John Scholarship Committee PO. Box 6233; Station A, Saint John, NB E2L 4R7. Applications are also posted on the Foundation’s web-site.

“We are optimistic CFUW-Saint John and our members will augment this fund. It is an advantage to offer charitable receipts. We are also pleased to turn over responsibility for its management to the Foundation. It will enable us to focus our fundraising efforts on other community causes as well” said President Ann Barrett. For many years, an annual Book Fair was a local club fundraiser. They have also sponsored various sales and functions to build their scholarship funds. Membership inquiries are welcomed by CFUW-Saint John and are open to any woman who has a university degree or a professional designation that now requires a degree or are interested in the pursuit of knowledge, promotion of education, improvement of the status of women & girls and active participation in public affairs in the spirit of cooperation & friendship.

“Your initiative, as long-standing supporters of education for women is to be commended”, said Michael Doyle, FCA, and Chairman of the Community Foundation. “It is encouraging to have generous benefactors like CFUW-Saint John come forward, who have been dedicated to improving the quality of life in their community and are leaving a lasting legacy. We find it doubly satisfying to help donors attain their charitable goals, while adding to the pool of awards our local young people can access”, he added.

Last year the foundation supported awards valued over $11,000 from several permanently endowed scholarship and bursary funds including: The Dr. Malcolm Somerville Bursaries in Business, The Saint John Law Society Bursary, the Cook Family Bursary, Supersteel Band Bursary, C.N. Wilson Scholarships, the Margaret Willis Awards Fund and the Florence Christie Bursary.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $9 M. In 2006, it donated in excess of $320,000.00 to over 75 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly.

Ann Barrett, President, CFUW-Saint John, 642-7404

November 23, 2006

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION TO MARK ANNIVERSARY WITH $30,000 GRANT TO FIRST STEPS AND UNIQUE REPORT

SISTERS OF CHARITY TO RECEIVE COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is announcing details of their thirtieth anniversary celebration taking place on November 28, 10am, at the Imperial Theatre. The public is invited. A major award of $30,000 is going to First Steps Housing Inc. Their unique high school education program is for pregnant and parenting teen moms with no safe place to live. It was selected from a large number of proposals which addressed clearly documented priorities in Greater Saint John.

“Our Community Foundation was established in 1976 to improve the quality of life for our citizens” said Michael Doyle, Foundation Chairman. “Often a modest grant will go a long way, but occasionally, a more substantial sum can truly make a difference to a charitable group. It may dream of a unique project but have few potential funding sources and struggle just to make ends meet he added”. In celebration of the anniversary, donors are contributing to a new Anniversary Fund. Earnings from it will fund the Anniversary Grant each year thereafter.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is releasing a community “report card” document as an Anniversary project and precursor to a national effort. It has provided a grant to the Saint John Human Development Council (HDC) to prepare a status report on the quality of life in Greater Saint John. Such an assessment of the vitality of a community, using national indicators, and local data can be useful in charting the future. Working in partnership with the Human Development Council and UNB-Saint John, relying, in part, on the research undertaken by the HDC as part of UNB-Saint John’s 5 year Community University Research Alliance, the report, “Taking Stock”, displays economic and social data in 10 broad categories or Indicators. They are: Population, Housing, Economy/Work, Belonging & Leadership, Safety & Health, Environment, Learning, Arts, Culture and Recreation and The Growing Gap. The aim is to ensure that the report has fairly, comprehensively and accurately described our community using the best data available. It is a quality of life measurement tool for community groups, leaders, businesses and researchers which will be repeated annually. It will be posted on the HDC and the Community Foundation’s web-sites on Nov. 28 and available at the Anniversary Celebration.

Vital Signs® is an annual community check-up conducted by community foundations across Canada that measures the vitality of Canadian cities, identifies significant trends, and assigns grades in at least ten areas, critical to quality of life. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is working toward being part of this national effort. Vital Signs® is based on a project of the Toronto Community Foundation and is coordinated nationally by Community Foundations of Canada.* This project of Community Foundations of Canada, is being piloted in Vancouver, Victoria, the Waterloo Region, Ottawa, Montreal, Medicine Hat, Red Deer and Calgary.

It is hoped that Greater Saint John will formally join the Vital Signs® project in the near future. At that time, a group of community leaders will assess and grade progress in these areas in an annual report card. This initial year, a report, without the community grading, will reference these indicators.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation will award the Sisters of Charity of The Immaculate Conception their Community Service Award, 2006 at the Anniversary Celebration. The religious order is made up of women who have dedicated their lives to the service of others, particularly the sick, the vulnerable and the poor as highly skilled, well-educated and caring social workers, educators and health care providers. Foundation Patron, Lieutenant Governor Hermenegilde Chaisson and Michael Doyle FCA, Foundation Board Chairman, will be present to recognize the significant contributions of the religious community for one hundred and fifty-two years of community service and leadership. In recognition of their contributions to the community, The Greater Saint John Community Foundation will express their appreciation by making a grant of $5,000 to Hestia House, a community charity of particular significance to the Sisters of Charity. Sister Sandra Barrett, Congregational Leader, and Chief Stephen McIntyre, Board Chair of Hestia House will be present for the event.

This year, the Foundation will also mark a granting milestone, having surpassed the $4.1 Million mark in cumulative grants since inception. In 2006, it donated in excess of $323,000.00 to approximately 75 local charities. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to over $8.2 M. The endowments encompass twenty six distinct funds, all of which benefit Greater Saint John. A granite rock has been inscribed recognizing all the Foundation’s supporters over thirty years. It sits prominently on Harbour Passage. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15th and September 30th.

• The Vital Signs® trademark is used with permission from the Toronto Community Foundation.

• Vital Signs® reports for Vancouver, Victoria, Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa can be viewed or downloaded at www.vitalsignscanada.ca.

August 29, 2006

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION TO TO MARK ANNIVERSARY WITH UNIQUE CHARITABLE GRANT

GREATER SAINT JOHN CHARITIES INVITED TO SUBMIT PROPOSALS FOR PROJECTS ADDRESSING COMMUNITY PRIORITIES

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is announcing details of a special anniversary grant of up to $30,000 they will provide to a Greater Saint John area charity. This fall, at the Anniversary Celebration marking their thirtieth anniversary, the major award will go to the proposal which best addresses clearly documented priorities in Greater Saint John. The project can positively affect the arts, social services, health, education, the environment, heritage or recreation. “Our Community Foundation was established in 1976 to improve the quality of life for our citizens” said Michael Doyle, Foundation Chairman. “Often a modest grant will go a long way, but occasionally, a more substantial sum can truly make a difference to a charitable group. It may dream of a unique project but have few potential funding sources and struggle just to make ends meet. We will evaluate the ideas put forward along with the many regular applications for funding, which we receive twice yearly” he added. A group may apply for the anniversary grant, in addition to a regular grant application, but must submit a separate, clearly identified application by September 29. It will be considered along with other grant applications at the same time, but applicants must indicate if they intend to be considered.

FOR ADDITIONAL GRANT GUIDELINES PLEASE CLICK HERE

In celebration of the anniversary, donors are being invited to contribute to a new Anniversary Fund. Earnings from the newly established Anniversary Fund will continue to provide funding for the Anniversary Grant each year thereafter.

The thirtieth anniversary celebration takes place on November 28, 10am, at the Imperial Theatre. At that time, other new funds will be announced, as well as the winner of the Anniversary grant. This unique project will address identified community priority needs.

This year, the Foundation will also mark a granting milestone, having surpassed the $4 Million mark in cumulative grants since inception. In 2005, it donated in excess of $304,000.00 to more than 80 local charities. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to over $8 M. The endowments encompass twenty four distinct funds, all of which benefit Greater Saint John. A granite rock has been inscribed recognizing all the Foundation’s supporters over the years. It sits prominently on Harbour Passage. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15th and September 30th.

August 10, 2006

SAINT JOHN HARBOUR BRIDGE AUTHORITY AND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCE THOMAS L. MCGLOAN, Q.C. FUND

Fund to Honour Community Leader and Driving Force behind Harbour Bridge Project

The Saint John Harbour Bridge Authority is announcing the establishment of a new permanently endowed fund with the Greater Saint John Community Foundation in honour of the late Thomas L. McGloan Q.C.. At a ceremony planned for 11am tomorrow, Aug. 11. Chairperson Rose Doherty will recognize Mr. McGloan’s substantial efforts and contributions over several decades.

“According to many reports, the Harbour Bridge Project may not have become a reality but for his single-handed determination” Rose Doherty stated. Stories from the sixties circulate that different designs and supporters, pro and con, as well as crossing locations, were at play. It came down to a tight time-line and various government approvals at the eleventh hour. Mr. McGloan’s cool head and ability to work out solutions were major factors in the success of the project, which had been a community priority for years. Parts of a 1968 documentary film on the Harbour Bridge, commissioned by the Province of New Brunswick and Fenco, the engineering firm which designed the bridge, will be shown at the ceremony.

In recognition of his contributions to the community, the Saint John Harbour Bridge Authority is donating $25,000 for the Thomas L. McGloan Q.C. Fund. Earnings from the permanent endowed gift will benefit a wide variety of charitable causes in Greater Saint John annually.

“His contributions to the legal, arts and business community, the Port of Saint John, the Saint John City Market, Uptown Saint John, as well as the construction and completion of local landmarks like Market Square and The Imperial Theatre in addition to the Harbour Bridge, were significant” said Michael Doyle, Foundation Board Chairman.

Over fifty years of community leadership and service were recognized in 2003 when Mr. McGloan received the Foundation’s Community Service Award and posthumously, an honourary doctorate from UNB-Saint John.

He represented Finland as Consul for 30 years and was awarded the Order of The White Rose of Finland. He served as Honourary Aid-de–Camp for the Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick and the Governor General of Canada. Mr. McGloan was a senior partner in Gilbert McGloan and Gillis, where he has practised corporate and commercial law for over 50 years, having followed in the footsteps of his father T. Louis McGloan Q.C.

He and his wife, Marilyn, always made family a priority. Life centred around their four children, John, Mark, Beth and Jane along with their spouses, their four grandchildren and extended family members. Many members are expected to be present for the ceremony.

June 20, 2006

Community Foundation Helps Launch Dialogue Saint John

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is providing financial support to an emerging think tank oriented group, targeting young adults. Dialogue Saint John is arising from the popular Young Leaders Luncheon series, which was the brainchild of the now disbanded Canadian Unity Council. It is receiving $1,500 from the Greater Saint John Community Foundation to organize four free, week-day, lunchtime discussion groups. The object is to provide a medium for thought provoking discussion and dialogue around issues of importance to the community The Organizers are a diverse group and include an engineer, a lawyer, a financial planner, a freelance writer, and an executive assistant. Sara Mudge, a community foundation board member, states “Our group is very excited about the idea and can’t wait to get the first one off the ground.”

Young people, ages 20 to 35, are invited to come hear speakers who will stimulate and engage them in thought provoking topics of local, provincial or national interest. As sponsor, the Community Foundation is broadening their connection to all demographic groups and promoting the participation of future leaders in issues of community importance. This helps to encourage volunteerism, philanthropy and awareness, keeping Greater Saint John a thriving and viable city that can attract and retain young talent.

The series will consist of four luncheons a year, one every three months. Each session will last between 1 and 1.5 hours and will feature a timely topic of interest to the community, with a focus on youth related issues. A subject matter expert will be guest speaker, followed by a Question and Answer session and discussion. All are welcome. The introductory session will be Wednesday, June 21 at 11:45am at the Aliant learning centre, 2nd Level, Brunswick Square. Lunch will be served. To register please call Sara Mudge, 650-7602 or Steve Brittain 633-3800 or email dialoguesj@gmail.com.

May 3, 2006

Community Foundation Helps Launch NBCC-Saint John Campaign

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is announcing support for the New Brunswick Community College’s Scholarship/Bursary Endowment Campaign at a launch this morning. The announcement of two annual $2,000 bursaries, as well as a gift of $10,000 is being made by Mrs. Janice Waldschutz, foundation board member and former Chair of The Old Ladies Home Advisory Committee.

Part of the $8.3 Million in assets held by the community foundation was contributed by a small group of philanthropic, elderly women who resided in a residence known as The Old Ladies Home, once located in Saint John’s South End, for more than a century. Earnings from The Old Ladies Home Fund, as their gift is named, benefit seniors’ charitable causes twice yearly, and is administered by the foundation.

The Old Ladies Home Fund will be contributing two annual $2,000 bursaries, to be known as the Old Ladies Home Awards in the field of Gerontology or a field, related to and positively impacting on, the quality of life of seniors. They will be awarded at a local, post-secondary institution for Saint John area students pursuing studies in that field.

In noting the foundation’s positive relationship with the local community college, Mrs. Waldschutz states, “Three courses immediately come to mind at NBCC-Saint John, for which students could apply: Health Care Aide, Home Support Worker and Human Services Worker. In order to generate the income for these two annual bursaries at $4,000, it would require, in today’s investment climate, a gift of approximately $100,000!”

A special gift of $10,000 to the newly created NBCC Scholarship and Bursary Fund, for students from the Saint John area, is also being presented at the ceremony.

Dec. 23, 2005

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION MARKS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH $305,029

IN GIFTS TO LOCAL CHARITABLE CAUSES

For a complete list of 2005 grants click here.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has announced details of grants they are providing to Saint John area charities totaling over $305,029 for the fiscal year 2004-5. Sectors benefiting range from the arts to social services, health, education, the environment and recreation. Programs which benefit low-income children and youth, as well as the disabled and seniors feature prominently in the list again this year. Topping the list financially, The Saint John Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring program, The Saint John Free Public Library’s Summer Storytent Program in the North End, Centenary Queen Square’s child and adult Daycare programs, O.N.E. (Old North End) Change, Saint John Waterfront Development Partnership Skateboard facility and PRO Kids all receive $10,000 or more each. (See complete list below). A number of bursary and scholarship winners have been announced totaling $13,100. Twelve grants are seniors related and five are in the environmental field. The C.N. Wilson Fund, established in 2000 by the family of the late Saint John philanthropist and business leader, is supporting several of these worthwhile causes.

“We are always pleased to assist young people, our future community leaders, with worthwhile projects” said Michael Doyle, FCA, Chairman of the Community Foundation’s board. Our grant of $3,000 is helping the Saint John Human Development Council encourage youth involvement in civic life through a “Youth Cabinet” . “We support Fusion, a group which fosters community involvement by young adults” he added. It wasn’t until the foundation supported the Saint John Ability Advisory Committee for their annual Disabilities Awareness Week luncheon, that it became clear how many groups serving disabled persons they had been supporting. The Canadian Mental Health Association, Canadian Deafblind and Rubella Association, Key Industries, Learning Disabilities Association of Saint John, L’Arche Saint John, New Brunswick Association for Community Living and the Muscular Dystrophy Association are examples. “Our foundation can often provide helpful suggestions, in addition to funding” said Jane Barry, Executive Director. “We recently became aware of three individuals who are severely disabled who now have functioning artificial limbs. It was our pleasure to be able to direct them to other generous foundations, they may otherwise have overlooked.”

The community foundation is grateful for generous donors, many of whom wish to honour a special person in their lives by naming a fund and sometimes a special cause. A growing number of them are establishing scholarship and bursary funds. Recent winners of some of these awards, which are funded from permanently endowed funds entrusted to the foundation include: Lindsay Perry, a Simonds High School graduate and winner of the Saint John Law Society Bursary; Isabelle Goguen and Dana Lutes, winners of The Margaret Willis Junior and Senior Awards at The Rothesay Ballet School; Stephanie Belyea, a St. Malachy’s High graduate and winner of The Walter Harris Bursary; Erin Boudreau of Harbourview High, winner of The Super Steel Band Bursary in music; Stephanie Jean Bronwyn Haslam, The Cook Family Bursary winner and Sarah LeBlanc, of Grand Bay-Westfield, winner of The Florence Christie Memorial Bursary.

The “PGA” team, organizers of the Annual Golf Tournament in memory of the late Paul Grannan, have contributed over $$56,107.12 since 2002 to continue building the Paul Grannan Fund. This year also marked the establishment of The Dr. J.P. and Anita McInerney Family Fund, the Professional Visual Artists Fund and The Gladys and Samuel Davis Fund.

With the second phase of the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Environmental Partnership, valued at $32,000, local projects, like the Harbour Passage Garden Party, a public session ,“Straight Talk on Children’s Health and The Environment”; conservation of Vance’s Beach on Long Island, in the Kennebecasis by The Nature Trust of New Brunswick; a new audiovisual production on Saint John’s waterways by ACAP Saint John and participation by students at Ecole Samuel de Champlain in an “Envirothon” have bee made possible. The Foundation, in partnership with community organizations, expressed satisfaction with events and activities to promote environmental awareness which strengthen the capacity of the community to respond to, understand and act upon local environmental challenges.

Nov. 17, 2005

Gladys and Samuel Davis Fund Announced

Philanthropy Saluted by Community Foundation

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is pleased to announce a new fund, The Gladys and Samuel Davis Fund. The fund, donated by Gary Davis, was established in memory of his parents to commemorate their accomplishments and to recognize their interest and caring for the people of Saint John. The announcement is timed to celebrate National Philanthropy Day. Mr. Davis hopes it will encourage charitable giving by others. “Everyone has someone they want to honour, and this is a way to do it and help other people at the same time,” he said.

Mr. Davis hopes that this fund will make a difference in the lives of young people in Saint John, and that it will “give something back to the community” for many years. “I have chosen to honour my father and my mother by establishing a permanently endowed fund to assist needy young people in Saint John. My wife Lana and I chose to specify that the revenue from this fund be used to help young people directly,” he said. Charitable groups that help youth aged 12-20 can apply for assistance.

Mr. Davis commended the community foundation’s breadth of knowledge and experience in dealing with community organizations. “Individuals can rely on this when making a charitable gift,” he said. “I chose the Greater Saint John Community Foundation because they have a better knowledge of community needs than I or any individual could have. Their expertise and the scope of local groups to which they contribute impressed me. They will find the best use for revenues from this fund while protecting the investment,” he said.

Gladys (Wiezel) Davis (1918-1974) and Samuel Davis (1914-1996) were both born in Saint John. They were children of immigrants who settled here early in the 20th Century. Both were born during the First World War and grew up during the Great Depression. They knew the meaning of hardship. With hard work and parental guidance they were able to complete high school and university and become active members of their community.

In the 1960s Sam Davis was elected to the school board. He served as a member of Saint John Common Council for more than two decades including his term as mayor, to which he was elected in 1977. Mayor Norman McFarlane, a Foundation board member who was also present at the announcement, noted the former Mayor Davis was intelligent, a gentleman and quietly effective, with a wonderful sense of humour.

Gladys was a graduate of Saint John High School who grew up in the South End. She received her B.Sc. in Home Economics at Mount Allison University and underwent further training at The Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where she worked as a dietitian advising low-income families. A talented, artistic and creative mother of four, she is remembered as a very positive person who was full of encouragement and moral support for others.

Sam was a very bright student who graduated from Saint John High School and UNB. He graduated with a masters degree in engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1939. He worked as an aeronautical engineer for most of the Second World War. A successful businessman and community leader, he believed in giving back to Saint John. He was an active volunteer in the fields of education, healthcare and heritage.

“There are numerous Saint John area organizations, mainly supported by tremendous voluntary efforts, which do great work for our youth” stated Michael Doyle, Chairman of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation as he expressed his deep appreciation. “We will have no problem identifying groups which can tap into this new source of much needed support. As demographics change and we learn more about the impact of poverty on a child’s development, the importance of maximizing the potential of every young person in our community and the contribution they can make, becomes increasingly significant”. The Gladys and Samuel Davis Fund has provided for earnings to benefit youth through local charities and will generate several thousand dollars annually.

Nov. 1, 2005

"How to Make a Will" Session, Nov. 23

Saint John Gift Planners RoundTable mark National Philanthropy Day

The Canadian Association of Gift Planners * Association canadienne des professionnels en dons planifiés™ and its Saint John Roundtable are inviting the public to learn amore about making a will and estate planning. The free session will take place Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2005, 11:45-1pm at The Mary Oland Theatre of The New Brunswick Museum. David Barry, Q.C. of Barry Spalding will be the keynote speaker. His law firm was recently named one of the top ten Atlantic Canadian independent legal firms. Public Legal Education New Brunswick has contributed six different free reference booklets for the event. They are: How to Make a Will, Choosing an Executor, Being an Executor, Probating a Will, Powers of Attorney and Powers of Attorney for Personal Care as well as other materials.

The primary reasons for considering a will are:

- to distribute your property as you wish

- to allow you to choose your own executor

- to give you flexibility in carrying out your wishes

- to provide guardianship for your children under age 19

- to avoid delays and costs

The Canadian Association of Gift Planners * Association canadienne des professionnels en dons planifiés™ supports philanthropy by fostering the development and growth of gift planning throughout Canada. Formed twelve years ago with 11 founding members, CAGP*ACPDP™ has grown to over 1200 individual members representing charities and professional advisors across Canada.

LEAVE A LEGACY™ CANADA - UN HÉRITAGE À PARTAGERMD is the national, public awareness program under the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP*ACPDP™) supporting all the local LEAVE A LEGACY™ programs in Canada. As such, it espouses CAGP’s national mission to encourage Canadians to have a Will and to consider the personal and financial benefits of making a charitable bequest to the charities of their choice.

The local Roundtable includes representation from:

University of New Brunswick

Fredericton Community Foundation

Fredericton YMCA

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation

New Brunswick Museum

Rocmaura Foundation Inc.

Rothesay Netherwood School

Bethany Bible College

Fondation De L'Hopital Dr. Georges-L. Dumont Inc.

Rocmaura Foundation Inc.

The Chalmers Regional Hospital Foundation Inc.

Mount Allison University

South-East Regional Health Authority

Friends of the Moncton Hospital Foundation

Atlantic Baptist University

South-East Regional Health Authority

Friends of the Moncton Hospital Foundation

Anciens & Développement

Bethany Bible College

Assante WealthManagement

Greater Saint John and New Brunswickers are noted for their generosity. National Philanthropy Day is a time to celebrate that spirit of giving back to community and the wealth of caring organizations in greater Saint John. The Saint John Human Development Council’s Community Services Database lists over 600 charitable groups and community services which offer citizen support locally. Regardless of a donor’s financial means, there is no shortage of worthy causes and charities. Saint John area funeral homes report over 300 “In Memoriam” type groups to which donations can be made. With a will, it is possible to ensure the group which satisfies the donor’s interests can be identified. Approximately 30% of Canadians include the name of one or more favorite charities in their wills. There is no charge for the “Make A Will” session but a contribution of $5 for lunch would be appreciated.

Oct. 18, 2005

Community Foundation Salutes Retiring Chair, Lino Celeste

Michael Doyle, FCA to head Local Charity for Charities

The Board of Directors of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has bid an appreciative farewell to their outgoing Chair of ten years, Lino Celeste, at their grants meeting this week. Michael Doyle, FCA, who has served as treasurer for the past several years, will be stepping up to lead the voluntary board.

“It’s hard to tabulate the tangible and intangible contributions Lino has made since taking over as board Chair from the late P.W. Oland in 1995” said Mr. Doyle. “His widely acknowledged leadership qualities as well as a keen sense of community involvement are attributes which have been of great benefit to our foundation and the community. “We will more formally recognize Lino’s contribution during our Thirtieth Anniversary Celebration in 2006” he concluded.

Mr. Celeste noted that one of the most valued elements of a community foundation is its ability to change with the needs of the community, directing grants to various sectors as Greater Saint John evolves. The funding of projects by local registered charities within a 50km. radius of Saint John, in one of a number of fields of interest such as: social services, arts/culture, health/medicine, education or environment, takes place twice yearly. In spring 2005 forty-five local charitable groups received financial support, totaling $148,765. When Mr. Celeste was nominated to the Board by the United Way the foundation’s permanent assets were in the $2 Million range. They recently have topped the $8 Million mark. “I’m very confident the foundation will continue its growth and service to Greater Saint John under Mike’s capable leadership” he stated. “He is a well-respected professional who cares deeply about our community” he concluded.

Michael Doyle, FCA, received his Bachelor of Commerce degree from Loyola College, now part of Concordia University and received his CA designation in 1972. He was awarded the Fellowship in The New Brunswick Institute of Chartered Accountants in 2001. Now practicing privately in association with Beers Neal LLP, he recently retired as a partner at Deloitte Touche, and served as President of the NB Institute of Chartered Accountants. At the community level, he has been active in the Boy Scout movement, held the posts of treasurer of Laubach Literacy of Canada, treasurer of Rothesay Netherwood School, and president of the United Way of Greater Saint John. He is Governor of the Sir James Dunn Foundation and served as treasurer of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. Since 1976 it has administered funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. In 2004, $319,969 was contributed from earnings on permanent endowment funds to over 75 Saint John Area groups with a goal of improving the quality of life for local citizens.

Sept. 1, 2005

Artists create works of art and new self-sustaining fund

McKean Family Foundation to support “Art & Artifacts” web-site

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation and The New Brunswick Museum have teamed up to celebrate a group of local artists who have come forward over the past two years to assist visual artists both with events to show case their talents and to encourage and advance their careers through a new permanently endowed Professional Visual Artists Fund. The new fund, now valued at over $3,000, is to be launched at the New Brunswick Museum Sept. 1 at a final showing of “Art and Artifacts”.

Twenty four professional artists and craftspeople, have been part of the 2005 “Art and Artifacts” event. They created and showcased significant works of art that relate to some aspect of the New Brunswick Museum’s collections. It is a uniquely conceived and creative project, which truly demonstrates the New Brunswick spirit, significant local talent and heritage simultaneously. The first event, an Art in The City Studio and Gallery Tour in 2003, also generated monies to establish the Fund, which will dispense artists’ grants when a $10,000 target is reached, through the community foundation and museum.

The founding group, Suzanne Hill, Carol Taylor, Lynn Wigginton and Pat Schell recognized the precarious financial situation of most artists and the substantial costs they incur to participate in making a submission for a show and if sucessful, being in one. With this in mind, they set out to establish a permanent fund, The Professional Visual Artists Fund, with The Greater Saint John Community Foundation, tailored to support artists’ ongoing work with earnings from the fund. The vision is that this permanent fund will grow as it is augmented from proceeds from such events as the Studio Tour in 2003 and The “Art and Artifacts” event in 2005, as well as future gifts and events. Fund earnings will be directed annually to deserving artists in recognition of the financial burden of mounting submissions for shows. “Staging these events took time, determination and commitment to their fellow artists” said Jane Barry, Executive Director of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation. “I commend the group for this generous and innovative new fund”.

The “Art and Artifacts” show will continue to be publicly available through generous support from The McKean Family Foundation, a legacy of the late Mary McKean, a philanthropist and teacher from Saint John. Funding of $10,000 has been granted to create an “Art and Artifacts” web-site through The New Brunswick Museum, an institution in which Miss McKean was particularly interested. Jane Fullerton, Director of the museum stated “The works of art created demonstrate the diversity of the Museum’s collection and the talent of Saint John artists. We are delighted that we will be able to continue to share them through a virtual exhibition”

Des artistes qui créent des œuvres d’art… et un nouveau fonds autonome

La Fondation de la famille McKean soutiendra le site web Art et artéfacts

La Fondation communautaire du Grand Saint John et le Musée du Nouveau-Brunswick (MNB) se sont associés pour rendre hommage à un groupe d’artistes locaux. Au cours des deux dernières années, ils ont pris l’initiative d’aider les artistes en arts visuels, par l’entremise d’activités où ils avaient l’occasion de faire valoir leurs talents d’une part, et par la création d’un nouveau fonds autonome (par donations) permanent d’autre part. Ce fonds est destiné aux artistes professionnels des arts visuels, dans le but de favoriser leur carrière et de lui donner un élan. D’une valeur actuelle de plus de 3000 $, il sera inauguré le 1er septembre au Musée du Nouveau-Brunswick, dans le cadre de la dernière présentation d’Art et artéfacts.

Vingt-quatre artistes professionnels et artisans ont pris part à l’édition 2005 d’Art et artéfacts. Ils ont ainsi créé et exposé des œuvres d’art remarquables ayant un lien avec les collections du MNB. Il s’agit d’une initiative unique en son genre, tant sur le plan de sa conception que de son volet créatif, qui témoigne de façon éloquente de l’esprit, du talent local remarquable et du patrimoine néo-brunswickois tout à la fois. La première activité organisée dans ce cadre, une tournée des studios et galeries de la ville (Art in The City Studio and Gallery Tour), qui a eu lieu en 2003, a également généré des revenus destinées à la constitution du fonds, qui distribuera des subventions aux artistes par l’intermédiaire de la fondation communautaire et du musée, une fois l’objectif de 10 000 $ atteint.

Les membres fondateurs du groupe, soit Suzanne Hill, Carol Taylor, Lynn Wigginton et Pat Schell, ont pris conscience de la situation financière précaire qui est le propre de la plupart des artistes, ainsi que des dépenses importantes qu’ils doivent engager pour présenter leur candidature à une exposition et y exposer leurs œuvres s’ils sont retenus. C’est pourquoi elles ont entrepris de constituer un fonds permanent, le Fonds des artistes professionnels des arts visuels, en collaboration avec la Fondation communautaire du Grand Saint John. Le fonds permanent est conçu exprès pour soutenir le travail continu des artistes grâce à ses recettes, dans l’idée qu’il s’enrichira effectivement des revenus dégagés d’activités comme la tournée des studios de 2003 et Art et artéfacts en 2005, ainsi que du produit de dons et d’activités à venir. Les recettes du fonds seront remises annuellement à des artistes méritant d’être soutenus, en reconnaissance du fardeau financier que constitue la présentation de leur candidature à des expositions. « L’organisation de ces activités a nécessité du temps, de la détermination et un engagement personnel de la part de leurs collègues artistes, a déclaré Jane Barry, directrice générale de la Fondation communautaire du Grand Saint John. Je félicite le groupe d’avoir constitué ce nouveau fonds, aussi généreux que novateur ».

L’exposition Art et artéfacts continuera d’être présentée au public grâce au soutien généreux de la Fondation de la famille McKean, un legs de feue Mary McKean, philanthrope et enseignante de Saint John. Une subvention de 10 000 $ a été accordée à la création du site web Art et artéfacts par l’intermédiaire du Musée du Nouveau-Brunswick, auquel s’intéressait particulièrement Mme McKean. D’ajouter Jane Fullerton, la directrice du Musée : « Les œuvres d’art créées témoignent de la diversité de la collection du Musée et du talent des artistes de Saint John. Nous sommes ravis de pouvoir continuer à les montrer par l’entremise d’une exposition virtuelle. »

August 4, 2005

Friends of Children’s Aid Society Augment Fund for Children with

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation

The Board of Directors of The Friends of the Children's Aid Society of the County of Saint John Inc. has made the final transfer of its assets, now totaling approximately $114,000, to The Greater Saint John Community Foundation’s Children’s Aid Fund. The permanently endowed fund supports local charities which directly benefit children and donors are welcome to add to it.

As part of the program of equal opportunity undertaken in l966, the government of the day took over the activities of such organizations as the Children's Aid Society of the County of Saint John, including adoptions and the protection of children. In order to assist in the care and welfare of children in the city of Saint John and other parts of the county, the then directors of the Children's Aid Society, incorporated a separate organization in 1965 known as The Friends of the Children's Aid Society of the County of Saint John Inc. and transferred investments to that organization. During the following thirty-six years, the Friends have assisted local children in need by making grants to worthy groups for programs such as day care, free milk and teen mothers. Mr. J. Esmonde Barry was the first President of The Friends of The Children’s Aid Society and was succeeded by Mrs. Frances Daley. The treasurer of the Friends, Franklin O. Leger, Q.C., paid tribute to Mrs. Daley and the other board members, including the late Paul Prebble and Dr. Andy Bona.

"In a small but important way, I believe the Friends improved the situation for many less fortunate or troubled children", he said. Mr. Leger noted that the board concluded in 2001 that the time was opportune for the funds and the responsibility for their use to be transferred to The Greater Saint John Community Foundation. The final asset transfer has now been completed and the work of the “Friends” continues through the Children’s Aid Fund, established at that time.

Children’s projects continue to aid children in Greater Saint John, year after year, from earnings on the permanent endowments, including the Children’s Aid Fund. In the foundation’s 2004 fiscal year and including the 2005 first round of grants, 59 children’s charities have received $228,974 which are directly of benefit to them. (see attached list)

Lino Celeste, Chairman of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation noted that there are many groups in Greater Saint John which are in a process of change due to declining membership or which were established for a purpose which has been outlived. “They can be confident their identity and raison d’etre is carried on when a fund such as this is established “ he said.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation Children's /Youth grants:

Campus Radio CRSJ 2,500

Canadian Deaf, Blind & Rubella (Association) 2,200

Centenary Queen Square Care Centres 7,500

Community Health Centre 6,100

Elizabeth Fry Society 3,000

Empty Stocking Fund 1,000

Family Resource Centre 2,500

First Steps Housing Project Inc. 5,000

Glenview United Church (Breakfast Program) 2,000

Hammond River Angling Association 3,000

Hampton Community Playing Fields Project 3,000

HealthNet 3,000

Healthy Community for Healthy (Youth) Initiative 2,000

Imperial Theatre 6,000

Junior Achievement of Southwest NB 2,000

Kennebecasis Park Home & School Playground 3,000

Kennebecasis Valley High Earth Day Event 1,250

Kiwanis Club of Eastern Kings 1,500

Learning Disabilities Association of Saint John 5,000

McDonald Consolidated School 535

New Brunswick Association for Community Living 2,500

New Brunswick Museum 3,600

One Change (Housing Alternatives) 5,376

Port City Dance Academy 875

PRIDE Saint John (PASSAGE) 3,000

PRO Kids 10,000

Rodney (#9) Sea Cadets 3,853

Saint John Art Club Inc 1,000

Saint John Learning Exchange 7,500

Saint John School Milk Fund 3,000

School District 6 Students' Personal Needs 100

School District 8 Students' Personal Needs 2,430

Scholarships 16,000

Theatre New Brunswick 2,500

VON Healthy Baby and Me 3,000

YM-YWCA 15,000

June 30, 2005

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION LAUNCHES INTO SUMMER BY HELPING OVER FORTY CHARITABLE CAUSES

GREATER SAINT JOHN BI-ANNUAL GRANTS TOTAL $148,370

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has announced details of grants they are providing to Saint John area charities totaling over $148,000 for the first half of 2005. Sectors benefiting range from the arts to social services, health, education, the environment and recreation. Summer programs will benefit low-income children and youth like The Summer Arts Ete Camp at The Imperial Theatre, The Port City Dance Academy and the Saint John Art Club’s Student Mentoring Program. Topping the list financially, The Saint John Free Public Library’s Summer Storytent Program in the North End receives $10,000. (See complete list below). A number of bursary and scholarship winners have been announced in conjunction with school graduations. Five grants are seniors related and five are in the environmental field.

“We are always pleased to assist children, the disabled and seniors with worthwhile projects” said Lino Celeste, Chairman of the Community Foundation’s board. Our grant of $3,000 is helping the New Dawn community open the first L’Arche home in New Brunswick after almost a decade of planning and fundraising. They have an Open House planned for Saturday, July 2, 2-4pm, for the West side home, “McKim House”, for intellectually disabled adults.

The C.N. Wilson Fund, established in 2000 by the family of the late Saint John philanthropist and business leader, is supporting the South End Daycare to the tune of $4,500 for renovations to their inner city child care facility, and summer camp programs for young people associated with The Canadian Deafblind and Rubella Association.

The community foundation is grateful for generous donors, many of whom wish to honour a special person in their lives by naming a fund and sometimes a special cause. A growing number of them are establishing scholarship and bursary funds. Recent winners of some of these awards, which are funded from permanently endowed funds entrusted to the foundation include: Lindsay Perry, a Simonds High School graduate and winner of the Saint John Law Society Bursary; Isabelle Goguen and Dana Lutes, winners of The Margaret Willis Junior and Senior Awards at The Rothesay Ballet School; Stephanie Belyea, a St. Malachy’s High graduate and winner of The Walter Harris Bursary; Erin Boudreau of Harbourview High, winner of The Super Steel Band Bursary in music and Sarah LeBlanc, of Grand Bay-Westfield, winner of The Florence Christie Memorial Bursary.

The “PGA” team, organizers of the Annual Golf Tournament in memory of the late Paul Grannan, contributed over $18,000 in 2004 to continue building the Paul Grannan Fund. Plans are underway for the September 22, 2005 event. Registration forms are now available from The Grannan Group at 648-2323.

With the second phase of the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Environmental Partnership, valued at $32,000, now available for local projects, The Foundation, in partnership with community organizations, expressed satisfaction with events and activities to promote environmental awareness like the recent Harbour Passage Garden Party, which strengthen the capacity of the community to respond to, understand and act upon local environmental challenges. In addition, environmental grants to ACAP Saint John for a new video production headlining local waterways and natural resources; the Nature Trust of New Brunswick to purchase and conserve Vance’s Beach on Long Island, in the Kennebecasis; ONE (Old North End) Change; The Hammond River Angling Association and Environmental students at Samuel de Champlain will receive support.

April 26, 2005

Canada’s community foundations hit $2-billion in assets

- National network’s Atlantic members meeting in Saint John -

Donors made 2004 a banner year for Canada’s community foundations by giving a record-breaking $210 million to foundations across the country, bringing the movement’s total assets to more than $2 billion.

“This is great news for communities all across Canada, including right here in the Atlantic Region,” said Jane Barry, Executive Director of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation. “Our asset base of $7.5 Million means more grants for community groups like The Saint John Volunteer Centre, ACAP Saint John or Loch Lomond Villa, for example. The assets of the eleven Atlantic community foundations now total more than $15 MIllion” she added.

Saint John plays host to The Atlantic Regional Meeting of Community Foundations of Canada April 29th and 30th at The Union Club. The national body, (CFC), is the membership organization for Canada’s 145 community foundations. Community foundations are locally-run, volunteer-led, independent, public foundations that build and manage endowment funds to support charitable activities in their area. There are 11 community foundations in the Atlantic Provinces, six in New Brunswick, three in Nova Scotia and province-wide foundations in PEI and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Monica Patton, President and CEO of CFC, will address the group this weekend, bringing them the latest philanthropic news. Community foundations are one of the largest grantmakers in Canada. Last year they contributed $95-million to thousands of charities all across the country. “The tech boom led to our largest and highest-profile gifts,” said Mrs. Patten, “but last year was our best ever, thanks to the generosity of an extremely wide range of Canadians.”

“Community foundations have experienced tremendous growth over the past decade,” she added. “In 1992, we had 28 foundations working together with $500 million in assets. Today that number has skyrocketed to 146 foundations managing $2 billion. We’re proud to be part of such a dynamic network.”

New Brunswick’s six community foundations are based in Saint John, Southeast NB (Moncton ), Fredericton, Fundy(Charlotte County), Sussex (the newest) and the Acadian Peninsula.

The delegates will also tour six uptown charitable organizations for a walk and talk about their operations and how grants from the local community foundation made a difference to them. They include: The Canadian National Institute for The Blind, The Saint John Learning Exchange, The Saint John Arts Centre, Fusion, The New Brunswick Museum and The Saint John Free Public Library.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to over $7.5 M. In 2004; it donated in excess of $319,000.00 to more than 75 local charities. It received the New Brunswick Day Award for Community Leadership in 2004. PRO Kids recently honoured the foundation for its ongoing support. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15th and September 30th.

March 23, 2005

Community Foundations of Canada Appoints Cathy Wright Atlantic Coordinator

Community Foundations of Canada (CFC) has appointed Cathy Wright as Atlantic Regional Coordinator.

CFC is the national membership organization for Canada’s 145 community foundations. Community foundations are locally-run, volunteer-led public foundations that build and manage endowment funds to support charitable activities in their area. There are 11 community foundations in the Atlantic Provinces, six in New Brunswick, three in Nova Scotia and province-wide foundations in PEI and Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Cathy’s long history of working and volunteering in the community will be a definite asset to community foundations in Atlantic Canada”, said Monica Patten, President and CEO of CFC.

“The collective assets of Atlantic Canada community foundations now exceed $15 million. They represent a powerful tool for community support, as well as an attractive option for donors who wish to keep their gifts at work locally.”

Cathy Wright has worked and volunteered for the past thirty years in the social development field. She was Executive Director of the Human Development Council, a community social planning agency in Saint John, for 17 years. The council recently honoured her by establishing an endowment fund with the Greater Saint John Community Foundation. Cathy will continue to work as a social planner with Vibrant Communities, a poverty reduction initiative in Saint John.

Cathy served on the Board of the Canadian Council on Social Development for nine years and was involved in the literacy movement at the local, provincial and national levels for over twenty years. In 1990, she received the Canada Volunteer Award. Cathy holds a Masters in Social Work from Carleton University.

One of Ms. Wright’s immediate responsibilities will be organizing the Atlantic Regional Meeting of Community Foundations that is being hosted by The Greater Saint John Community Foundation on April 29 and 30, bringing together Board members and staff to support and learn from one another.

March 16, 2005

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD TO THOMAS L. MCGLOAN Q.C.

Ceremony to honour community leader, lawyer, Consul for Finland

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has announced that Thomas L. McGloan Q.C. will be awarded their Community Service Award at a ceremony at City Hall on March 22 at 11:30am. Lino Celeste, Foundation Board Chairman and Board Member Mayor Norman McFarlane will be present to recognize the significant contributions of Mr. McGloan for over fifty years of community leadership and service.

“We are indebted to people like Tom McGloan, who never sought personal gain for their dedicated community service. He quietly and effectively took the lead on many files of great importance and value to Greater Saint John.” said Lino Celeste, Chairman of the Community Foundation’s board. “Mr. McGloan’s commitment to dozens of community organizations make him an ideal candidate for recognition and appreciation” he concluded.

His contributions to the legal, arts and business community, the Port of Saint John, the Saint John City Market, Uptown Saint John, as well as the construction and completion of local landmarks like The Saint John Harbour Bridge, Market Square and The Imperial Theatre are significant.

His expertise added value to the work of The New Freeman, the Victorian Order of Nurses, CMHC, the Business Community Anti-Poverty Initiative, Symphony New Brunswick and The Saint John Development Corporation, among many others.

He has represented Finland as Consul for 30 years and has been awarded the Order of The White Rose of Finland. As a naval officer and recreational sailor, Mr McGloan has had a life-long affinity for the sea. He has served as Honourary Aid-de–Camp for the Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick and the Governor General of Canada. Mr. McGloan is a senior partner in Gilbert McGloan and Gillis, where he has practised corporate and commercial law for over 50 years, having followed in the footsteps of his father T. Louis McGloan Q.C.

He and his wife, Marilyn, have always made family a priority. Family activities centre around their four children, John, Mark, Beth and Jane along with their spouses and extended family members. They take great delight in their four grandchildren.

In recognition of his contributions to the community, The Greater Saint John Community Foundation will express their appreciation by making a grant of $2,500 to The Learning Disabilities Association of New Brunswick-Saint John and $2,500 to The Family Resource Centre, community charities of particular significance to Mr. McGloan. They will be present for the event.

Mrs. Jean Irving was honoured with the Community Service Award just over one year ago for her contributions to the beautification and heritage of Greater Saint John as well as her involvements in many community charities and dedication to young people.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to over $7.5 M. In 2004; it donated in excess of $319,000.00 to more than 75 local charities. It received the New Brunswick Day Award for Community Leadership in 2004. PRO Kids recently honoured the foundation for its ongoing support. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15th and September 30th.

January 31, 2005

PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY TOP PRIORITY SAYS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION TREASURER

GREATER SAINT JOHN FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DISCLOSED

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has announced details of their finances for the 2003-2004 fiscal year. Michael Doyle FCA reports that total assets have grown to $7,413,037. “Six new funds were added in the past year, as well as other gifts, coupled with an unrealized capital gain of $257,628 to improve our position substantially” said Mr. Doyle.

Grants generated from earnings on the permanent endowments were provided to Saint John area charities totaling $319,969. This amount exceeds all previous years since 1976. Sectors benefiting twice-yearly range from the arts to social services, health, education, arts and culture and environment as well as recent seasonal projects like The Empty Stocking Fund, The Salvation Army Turkey Drive, the Harbour Lights Campaign and Coats for Kids. (See complete list below).

“We are indebted to our donors” said Lino Celeste, Chairman of the Community Foundation’s board, “without them, we would not be in a position to lend a hand to such a diverse group of local charities.” “We particularly wish to pay tribute to the generosity of the late Cindy Kidd and her mother Lois who established two funds in the past year.”

Honouring a special person or a favourite cause by naming a fund is attractive to many donors. Ms. Kidd, who had a keen interest in the community’s youth, passed away on Dec. 28, 2004. Two private foundations, The McKean Family Foundation and the J.W.McConnell Family Foundation have also been significant contributors in the past fiscal year.

Accountability to the public, including donors, is a key ingredient to the success of the community foundation movement. Complete financial statements are available on the foundation’s web-site www.saint-john-foundation or by contacting the foundation office.

December 31, 2004

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION CLOSES YEAR HELPING OVER FORTY CHARITIES

GREATER SAINT JOHN BI-ANNUAL GRANTS TOTAL $166,427.50

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has announced details of grants they are providing to Saint John area charities totaling over $166,000 for the second half of 2004. Sectors benefiting twice-yearly range from the arts to social services, health, education and recreation as well as recent seasonal projects like The Empty Stocking Fund, The Salvation Army Turkey Drive, the Harbour Lights Campaign and Coats for Kids. (See complete list below).

“We are always pleased to see newcomer applicants with worthwhile projects” said Lino Celeste, Chairman of the Community Foundation’s board. A daily children’s breakfast program for fifty-seven schoolchildren at Glenview United Church in East Saint John, $2,000; The Rodney (#9) Sea Cadets $3,852.50 for Musical/band equipment; Saint John Transit $5,000 to purchase and install 5 bicycle racks to encourage multimodal, healthy environmentally friendly public transportation; Town of Quispamsis, to create an Arts and Culture Park adjacent to the new town hall and the Breasts Ahoy Dragon Boat Team, $1,500; were among the first-time grantees.

The C.N. Wilson Fund, established in 2000 by the family of the late Saint John philanthropist and business leader, is supporting CNIB to the tune of $5,000 for a public awareness program re the disease of macular degeneration and the award-winning Hospice of Saint John and Sussex for $5,000, among others.

The community foundation is grateful for their generous donors, many of them wishing to honour a special person in their lives by naming a fund and sometimes a special cause. The newest funds to be established in recent months include, the Jack, Lois and Cindy Kidd Bursaries Fund and The Jack Kidd Family- Saint John Boys and Girls Club Fund, in honour of the late Cindy Kidd, the late Jack Kidd and Mrs. Lois Kidd. Executive Director, Jane Barry, paid tribute to Cindy Kidd and her generosity. Ms. Kidd, who had a keen interest in the community’s youth, passed away on Dec. 28.

The “PGA” team, organizers of the Annual Golf Tournament in memory of the late Paul Grannan, contributed over $18,000 in 2004 to continue building the Paul Grannan Fund. The first Cook Family Bursary, valued at $2,000, has been awarded to Crystal Moore, a graduate of KV High now pursuing studies in English at UNBSJ.

With the second phase of the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Environmental Partnership, valued at $32,000, about to commence, The Foundation, in partnership with community organizations, is planning various events and activities to promote environmental awareness, which will strengthen the capacity of the community to respond to, understand and act upon local environmental challenges. In addition to the above environmental grants to Saint John Transit and the Town of Quispamsis, Grand Bay-Westfield will receive $10,000 in support for the Henderson Brook Wetland project.

November 15, 2004

National Philanthropy Day - Community Foundation Announces First Scholarship Winner from New Fund

Community Foundation and UNB Saint John officials have announced the first winner of The Cook Family Bursary today, marking National Philanthropy Day. She is Crystal Moore, a graduate of Kennebecasis Valley High School who is currently in her fourth year of a Bachelor of Arts program. Active in her church and maintaining a high grade point average, Crystal is enthusiastic about her chosen field of English.

The new permanently endowed fund, entrusted to The Greater Saint John Community Foundation, was created this year to annually support a new $2,000 bursary at UNB Saint John. The donors, who wish to remain in the background, have an interest in many local causes. The award recognizes the efforts of a Saint John area student pursuing studies in English, a particular interest of the donors. In future, additional income from the fund may be directed to a Saint John area charitable organization.

“It is encouraging to have generous community benefactors like this family come forward, who believe in Saint John and who intend to leave a lasting legacy here” said Lino Celeste, Chairman of the community foundation. “We find it doubly satisfying to be able to help donors attain their charitable goals while adding to the pool of awards our local university can offer to Saint John area young people”, he added. Dr. Kathryn Hamer , Vice-President of UNB Saint John expressed her appreciation to the donors at a time when costs are an ever increasing burden to students, particularly those in their third or final year. “This is great news at this time of celebration for our fortieth anniversary” she concluded.

Applications for the bursary can be directed to UNB Saint John. Last year The Greater Saint John Community Foundation supported awards valued at $15,500 from several permanently endowed funds and gifts including The Dr. Malcolm Somerville Bursaries in Business, The Saint John Law Society Bursary, Students Abroad, Supersteel Band Bursary, C.N. Wilson Scholarships, Philip Oland Scholarships, The Walter Harris Scholarships and the Florence Christie Bursary.

October 28, 2004

Kidd Family's Philanthropy Saluted by Community Foundation

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation commended Lois Kidd, the widow of the late Jack Kidd, and their daughter Cindy, as role models for community philanthropy at the announcement of two new funds established with the foundation. The first is known as the Jack, Lois and Cindy Kidd Bursaries Fund. This generous 4 year bursary program, designed to reward and encourage UNB-Saint John-bound local high school graduates to stay in Greater Saint John is at the heart of the planned gift. An additional permanently endowed gift has been made to the Saint John Boys and Girls Club in the name of the Jack Kidd Family. The late Mr. Kidd was a well-known community volunteer and businessman.

"Jack was renowned for his dedication to young people and the disabled as well as being very active with service clubs like the United Commercial Travellers and in his church, St. Mark's" said Mrs. Kidd. "Our family was brought up to understand and value volunteering and community service" added Cindy, who has already made the Bursary Fund a reality. She has provided for an additional future gift to it through a fund agreement which will set up four, four year bursaries valued at $6,000 each per year for a total of $24,000 per year when fully rolled out. "We are going to ask local applicants to provide a stated intent to remain in our community once their education is complete. That way, we hope their talents will be put to good use here at home to keep Saint John vibrant" she stated.

Lino Celeste, Chairman of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation, expressed his deep appreciation, noting that as demographics change, the importance of developing the potential of every young person in our community and the contribution they can make, becomes increasingly significant. "Our Saint John university campus is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and The Jack, Lois and Cindy Kidd Bursaries Fund makes this one of the best birthday gifts I could imagine." he concluded. In thanking the Kidd Family, Dr. Kathryn Hamer , Vice-President of UNB-Saint John noted how helpful such gifts can be at a time when costs are an ever increasing burden to students, particularly those in their second, third or final year when fewer awards are available.

The Jack Kidd Family- Saint John Boys and Girls Club Fund will provide much-needed funding to the inner-city club for operational expenses and is structured to receive future planned gifts. Mrs. Lois Kidd and Cindy Kidd have also presented a monetary gift to the Club's Board Chair, Carl White and Assistant Executive Director, Laurie Collins to give immediate impetus to the planned gift. The Kidd Family is challenging the community to come forward and make additional gifts to the New Fund for the club's daily operational expenses. "People are amazed at the large number of children we serve with such a wide variety of programs" said Mr. White, himself a participant in the club as a youngster. "I feel this is one reason the Kidd Family have been so generous" he stated.

Mr. Kidd has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to Greater Saint John with life memberships in The Canadian Foundation for the Advancement of Pharmacy and the New Brunswick Pharmaceutical Society as well as having had a bursary established in his name at Dalhousie University by Anca Laboratories. The Saint John branch of the United Commercial Travellers is known as UCT Jack Kidd Local 755. "It is reassuring to know that we have finalized arrangements and established permanent funds which will honor our father and family" Cindy added. An affable and persuasive man of action, the family is still learning of his many generous and anonymous acts of kindness.

Mrs. Lois Kidd, always supportive of her husband's community activities, has contributed generously to many local charities in her own name. Her family continues to be the centre of her life.

Cindy Kidd, a graduate of The Nova Scotia College of Art and Design and a videographer, achieved two firsts in her career in the multimedia industry. She was the first woman to operate a video camera east of Montreal and the first woman to become an audio technician with CBC. Active in her church, she has volunteered for a number of charities, including those which serve the disabled.

May 20, 2004             

2004 New Brunswick Day Merit Awards

This year's New Brunswick Day Merit Awards will be presented at a ceremony to be held at the Saint John Arts Centre, 20 Hazen Avenue, at 12:00 noon on Friday, July 30, 2004. This year's honorees represent four of the six categories, and include:

Arts Category- Saint John Arts Centre

Business Category – Hardman Group

Community Leadership Category- Greater Saint John Community Foundation

Environment – Corey Rogers

Sport, Leisure, Active Living – Nick Georgoudis

Volunteer Category – Gail Roberts

His Worship, Mayor McFarlane will be joined by Trevor Holder, MLA for Saint John-Portland, to present the Awards at the Arts Centre. "It is indeed an honour to present these awards to deserving Saint Johners," said Mayor McFarlane, continuing, "This year's choices were difficult to make, because of the number of exceptional candidates that were nominated."

As the representative of the Province of New Brunswick, Trevor Holder agreed. "There are so many people contributing to the Saint John community in so many different ways, and I am very pleased to be able to help recognize this year's recipients. As well, I offer a special thanks to those who submitted nominations to the committee."

The noon-hour ceremony was chosen this year to afford more people the opportunity to come out and support their friends and fellow citizens.

FOR RELEASE: July 13, 2004

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HELPS OVER FORTY CHARITIES

GREATER SAINT JOHN YEAR-TO-DATE GRANTS TOTAL $148,117.25

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has announced details of 43 grants they are providing to Saint John area charities this summer totaling over $120,000. Sectors benefiting range from the arts to social services, health, education and recreation. (See complete year-to-date list below).

“We are always pleased to see newcomer applicants with worthwhile projects” said Lino Celeste, Chairman of the Community Foundation’s board. A children’s summer program for eleven young people identified by the Canadian Deafblind and Rubella Association($2,200); UNBSJ’s Campus Radio ($2,500); a computerized “doll” for River Valley Middle School’s “Baby Think it Over” program ($1,500); chairs and tables to serve meals at the Main St. North’s Neighbourhood Hope Mission ($3,000); the school-based “Circle of Friends” program offered by the NB Association for Community Living ($2,500) and a new Playing Field at Hampton High ($3,000) are examples of groups supported for the first time.

The C.N. Wilson Fund, established in 2000 by the family of the late Saint John philanthropist and business leader, is supporting PRO Kids to the tune of $5,000 and a children’s summer camp at The Imperial Theatre for $5,000 as well as the C.N. Wilson scholarships.

The community foundation is grateful for their generous donors, many of them wishing to honour a special person in their lives by naming a fund and sometimes a special cause. The newest funds to be established in recent months include, the Margaret Willis Awards Fund, in honour of the late Margaret Willis, The Saint John Human Development Council Fund, set up by HDC supporters in honour of the Council’s 25th anniversary and a new Bursary Fund at UNBSJ for students of English. The New Brunswick Community College-Saint John made a generous donation in support of preschool children and the McKean Family Foundation a $26,000 gift to be passed through to local charities. The “PGA” team, organizers of the Annual Golf Tournament in memory of the late Paul Grannan, are hard at work planning the third annual charity tournament slated for Sept. 23, 2004 to add to the Paul Grannan Fund.

With the $75,000 J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Environmental Partnership now in motion, The Foundation, in partnership with community organizations, has been holding various events and activities to promote environmental awareness which will strengthen the capacity of the community to respond to, understand and act upon local environmental challenges. Five organizations will receive support for projects which will enhance our local environment: ACAP Saint John, $2,500 for a St. John River water quality study; The Hammond River Angling Association, $3,000 to enable youth from the St. John Boys and Girls Club to attend “Kids are Cool for Conservation” Summer Camp; Pascobac Centre, $2,000 to create an Interpretive hiking trail on Belleisle Bay; ONE (Old North End) Change, $5,000 for neighbourhood cleanup and beautification and The Nature Conservancy of Canada, $5,000 to establish a local stewardship program in the Musquash Salt-water Estuary.

In addition to grant monies, the McConnell Foundation is supporting community activities and events like the Climate Change Event attended by local students and the public, Earth Day at KV High, Lorne Park cleanup adjacent to Lorne School, and an Open House at the Regional Landfill at Crane Mountain. A second phase is soon to bring in additional financial support from the McConnell Foundation to Saint John.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by the public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the Foundation’s assets have grown to over $7.5 M. In 2003; it donated in excess of $250,000.00 to more than 70 local charities. It received the Saint John Board of Trade’s first Annual “Big Heart” Award in 2003. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, April 15th and September 30th.

Ballet Student, Margaret Willis, to be remembered with new Awards

The Annual recital of The Rothesay Ballet School will take place this weekend at The Imperial Theatre and feature two unique Awards in honour of a talented young ballerina and local student, Margaret Willis. In celebration of her life and her love of ballet, Margaret’s family has established an endowed annual award to two promising students, junior and senior, of the Rothesay Ballet School. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation has been entrusted with the fund.

Margaret’s sister, Elaine Willis, and her brother, Dr. Stephen Willis and his wife, Judy, will be on hand for the presentations to Elizabeth Godfrey, winner of the Margaret Willis Senior Award and Kaitlyn Murphy, winner of the Margaret Willis Junior Award. Margaret’s parents, Christie (Arthurs) Willis and retired UNBSJ Professor Philip Willis, still reside in the Golden Grove area, where their ancestors operated a woolen mill.

Margaret attended Golden Grove and Forest Hills Elementary Schools in Saint John.  Her love for dance developed at the Rothesay Ballet School and for the next 10 years, became a special joy. She learned to play the viola, loved music and art, was a top student, competitive and with marks of straight A’s. After battling an illness for over a year, Margaret died at age 15, on June 28, 1980 in Halifax at the Isaak Walton Killam Hospital for children. Throughout her illness, she never lost the keen sense of humour and zest for life which were salient features of her personality.

Sylvia Logan, Director of The Rothesay Ballet School, has nothing but praise and admiration for Margaret and is gratified the family will be recognizing talented students annually. The recital starts at 7:30pm, Saturday May 22 at The Imperial Theatre.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Further contributions to the Margaret Willis Fund are welcome. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $7.5 M. In 2003, it donated in excess of $250,000.00 to more than 70 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly.

For release: May 11, 2004

 Upcoming Spring workshops and tours on nature sponsored by Greater Saint John Community Foundation-J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Environmental Partnership

The public is invited to focus on the natural outdoors and improving our environment this month with 6 interpretive tours and workshops. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation- J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Environmental. Partnership are funding the sessions.

Urban and suburban residents rely on properly functioning septic systems to keep their drinking water pure and safe. A work shop May 13th at Hampton Town Hall, Centennial Room, 7pm in cooperation with ACAP Saint John and the Town of Hampton Leisure Services will focus on siting, installation and maintenance of these essential waste disposal systems.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada is inviting wetland affiionados to learn more about their plans for the Musquash Estuary, and the marsh itself, the only surviving intact salt water marsh in New Brunswick. An interpretive tour for all ages will take place Saturday May 15 at 2pm, starting at the Musquash Fire Hall. The NCC has assembled more than half of their goal of 100 hectares to conserve and protect, to date.

“Everything You Wanted to Know about Gardening (but were afraid to ask)” is the topic as the public are invited to tour the garden of Betty Kennett, the popular and witty garden commentator, at 7pm, May 20, 58 Kennebecasis River Rd. Hampton.

Birders and would be naturalists can learn about wildlife in their midst at the Rotary Nature Park, Spooner’s Island, Hampton, May 25th at 7pm. Noted bird expert, Jim Wilson will guide the group on an interpretive tour, entitled “Stalking the Dinosaurs’ Descendants” with birdwatching and identifying various species along the trails and boardwalks .

The ins and outs of assembling a moss flower basket will be the topic on May 26, 7pm, at Kredl’s Corner Market as Laurie Osburn of “Bloomin Baskets”, Norton takes you through the project. Materials will be available for a modest cost.

The rich diversity of plant life. common shrubs and trees will be explored June 2 at the Rotary Nature Park, Spooner’s Island, Hampton at 7pm. Alex Eaton, landscape and horticulture expert, will lead the tour.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation- J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Environmental. Partnership has contributed $2, 044 to the Hampton based sessions as part of their efforts to stimulate public interest and commitment to protecting nature and and our natural environment. $75,000 has been given to the Greater Saint John area by the McConnell Foundation for events, activities and grants to local groups, including the Nature Conservancy of Canada ($15,000 to date), ACAP Saint John ($8,000), Camp Pascobac on Belleisle Bay ($10,000), the Hammond River Angling Association ($3,000). The Saint John Waterfront Development Partnership ($5,000), ONE (Old North End) Change, ($5,000), Jervis Bay-Ross Memorial Park, ($15,000),

The Community Foundation partnered with The Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission in November, 2003, recognizing recycling Depot Hosts and will partner at the re-opening of their renovated interpretive educational centre in June. The Community Foundation hosted about 300, including university, community college and school students to a session on Climate Change in March, 2004 and invite local groups with an environmental activity or project to contact them as plans for a second phase of the McConnell Partnership develop. The foundation helped KV High students celebrate Earth Day recently with $1,250 in funding to “green” a former smoking area and create environmental awareness with a “Get to School Under Your Own Steam” Day.

The Community Foundation wishes to publicly recognize the efforts of Laurie Mills, winner of the New Brunswick Environmental Leadership Award in 2002, for his efforts in organizing the Hampton workshops and to encourage residents from all over the Greater Saint John area to attend.

For further information contact:

Hampton Leisure Services 832-6102

Nature Conservancy of Canada 1-888-

Laurie Mills 832-7842

For release: April 28 , 2004 

Saint John Human Development Council launches

25^th Anniversary Endowment Fund

 

Twenty-Fifth anniversary celebrations for the Saint John Human Development Council Inc. will be launched tonight with a $5,300 permanent endowment fund to assist in the ongoing administration costs of the social planning agency. Former Executive Director Cathy Wright will be honoured for her 17 years of service to the group and the community. Initiatives such as  illiteracy, poverty, teen pregnancy, social and economic development, social inclusion and the development of a community services database have been tackled by the group over the years. “Cathy has provided tremendous leadership and commitment during her tenure. Our entire community has benefited from that” said Randall Hatfield, Executive Director of HDC.

President Sue Davis expressed satisfaction with the leadership, past and present, of board members and staff who have dedicated themselves to addressing social issues of pressing importance in Greater Saint John. She notes that the organization is unique in New Brunswick and began as the Social Services Council of Saint John. “We are excited that we can look forward to this new revenue stream from an endowment fund which will grow over time. We are indebted to the generosity of board members and supporters of the Human Development Council, as past and present community leaders, who are building this new fund and meeting the challenges of social planning” she stated.

Infoline, a program of the Human Development Council, has acted as a referral service for individuals and charitable agencies for many years. It has recently moved to the internet as a vehicle for providing links to more than 600 community, social, health and government services. Their Community Services Database, www.humandevelopmentcouncil.nb.ca  was funded with support from the Greater Saint John Community Foundation.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $7.5 M. In 2003, it donated in excess of  $250,000.00 to over 70 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly.

 

For release: April 22 , 2004                 

KV High Students Commemorate Earth Day

and Honour Students

 

A group of Kennebecasis Valley High School students are marking Earth Day understandably late this year, in a way that involves many community partners. For several weeks plans have been underway to “re-invent” a former smoking area adjacent to the school, which recently adopted a no-smoking policy on school grounds. A courtyard crew will be tree planting, landscaping, earth moving, creating a public “stage” and seating as part of the new design. A “Memorial Grove” will be planted in honour of Jane Knight, a graduate of KV High who recently passed away and Anthony Gormley, who was killed in an accident last week.  Out of respect for the Gormley Family, the events have been re-scheduled for April 28.

The Environment Club has issued a 2 part challenge: first to students to “Get yourself to School on Your Own Steam” Wednesday April 28^th by biking or walking and Second, to the community, to find a way to carpool that day to work. Mayor Ron Maloney and Vice-Principal, Peter Atkinson, are expected to accept the challenge that day. Kelly Eagles, one of the student organizers stated “Students will register their physical activities so we can raise awareness on its importance as well as the positive effect on our environment”. Prizes for creativity, longest distances and participation will be made.

Speakers are invited to the school for special lectures relevant to climate change, New Brunswick forests, the Bay of Fundy and the new KV walking Trail.

The Bike/Walk under your own Steam will occur in the early morning as students arrive for school. Dedication of the green space and a Drum Circle are scheduled for noon, April 28 with a student concert and barbecue the following evening, April 29. Two raffles, with a bicycle, donated by Tim Hortons,  and concert tickets as prizes, are taking place to raise funds for the projects. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation considers the involvement of youth a key factor in developing a community’s capacity for environmental change. It is contributing $1,250 through a Partnership Program with the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation.

The Environment Club has the support and guidance of teacher Peggy Woolsey and wish to thank the following sponsors and supporters:

Students, their parents and Staff of Kennebecasis Valley High School

Quispamsis Town Council

Chris Crowley, Landscape Designer

Brunswick Nurseries

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation- J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Environmental Partnership

Alernatives

Tim Hortons

Canadian Tire

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $7 M. In 2002, it donated in excess of  $315,000.00 to 74 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly.

March 1, 2004

Hon. David Anderson to address Climate Change

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation’s Climate Change Event is attracting interest from environmental organizations from Southwestern NB as well as municipal leaders, the business community and a large number of young people.

“Thursday’s keynote address by Hon. David Anderson, Minister of Environment for Canada, will be an opportunity for awareness raising more than fundraising” said Jane Barry, Executive Director of the Community Foundation. “Our Environmental Partnership with The J.W. McConnell Family Foundation has enabled us to get the community more involved, informed and committed to our natural heritage” she stated.

More than a dozen groups will have displays on the mandates of their specific environmental organization. The New Brunswick Museum’s Climate Change project and The Eastern New Brunswick Sea Level Rise Project are among them. The New Brunswick Cancer Society and The New Brunswick Lung Association will feature the effects of respiratory diseases, health-related matters and climate change.

Interested university, community college and local school students have been invited to attend at the expense of the foundation. The informal luncheon is open to the public.

Climate Change: What Does it Mean for My Health?

My Business?

My Community?

Delta Brunswick Hotel, Trinity Royal Room

Thursday, March 4, 12:15 -1:45pm

Luncheon Tickets $10 (to reserve please call Jane Barry 672-8880 by March 1)

Introductory speakers: Dr. Barbara MacKinnon, NB Lung Association

Dr. David Besner, former Assistant Deputy Minister, NB Dept. of Environment

Dr. Keith De’Bell, UNBSJ, Dean Faculty of Science, Engineering

Jan. 26, 2004

Greater Saint John Community Foundation Announces NBCC-Saint John Gift

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation and the Saint John Campus of The New Brunswick Community College have come together in aid pre-school children . The NBCC is donating a $3,751.37 fund, a carry-over from its former service for young children associated with the College, to a permanent fund which will benefit pre-schoolers for the long term..

Peter McGill, Principal of the local post-secondary institution, said “When this program changed, we were given an opportunity to direct the monies to a children’s charitable cause because of the commitment we had made some years ago, if it wound up its operation.” Foundation Chairman Lino Celeste expressed his appreciation for the gift, “we are presented with many applications from local groups who serve children capably in our community, so we can put the earnings from this gift to good use. It also serves to remind groups who may have a kitty of funds set aside, that we are able to accept these, create a fund for specific purposes and possibly name the fund for the group, person or a cause near and dear to them” he stated.

The community foundation partners with many local educational organizations, charities and donors. It has established several permanent scholarship funds which assist post-secondary students and give awards to schoolchildren. Some recent examples are The Super Steel Band Fund which provided a $1,000 award to Jessica Ives-Barrett to study music at McGill University, two Students Abroad bursaries at UNBSJ to Theresa White and Deanna Bateman, The Saint John Law Society Bursary to Laura Bonnenfant, a Chemical Technology student at NBCC-Saint John, and The Margaret Willis Award Fund, which will recognize ballet students at The Rothesay Ballet School. The foundation’s $500 Walter Harris Bursary has been awarded to a NBCC-Saint John Business Technology student this year, Adam Ferguson.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to over $7 M. In 2003, it donated in excess of $250,000.00 to over 70 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, Apr. 15 and Sept. 30. The New Brunswick Community College-Saint John serves some 1,500 students enrolled in 26 regular programs, contracts and apprenticeship services.

For release: August 29 , 2003

Local Children Return to School Enriched by Community Foundation’s Support of Summer Programs

As summer draws to a close, hundreds of Saint John Area children and youth will return to school full of happy memories of summer camps and programs. The Greater Saint John Community Foundation and its Children’s Aid Fund have enabled many of them to attend and come away with enriching, life-long experiences.

They came in every imaginable field of interest: theatre and dance on the Imperial’s stage, fishing and kayaking in the Hammond River, nature walks at The Glenn Carpenter Centre’s Ashburn Lake, swimming, playing a musical instrument on Caton’s Island, getting to know a police officer with Kids and Cops, spending leisure time with your parent away from the heat and bustle of the inner city, permitting a disabled child to participate at Belleisle’s Camp Pascobac, rubbing elbows with local professional artists and gallery operators as part of the Saint John Art Club’s mentoring program for Art students, performing on stage at Carnegie Hall or building up an impressive list of dozens of books read under the Saint John Free Public Library’s Storytent in the North End. The foundation has also supported three playground projects at Centennial, Lakewood Heights and Grand Bay-Westfield Elementary Schools at $3,000 each.

Chairman Lino Celeste noted that the community foundation is a strong supporter of youth and educational experiences. He estimates more than one third of the foundation’s semi-annual grants go to underprivileged children and youth, representing more than $100,000 in assistance. “Our board wants to ensure as many young people as possible who do not have the financial ability to participate can do so” said Jane Barry, executive Director of the foundation. “They may be from the inner city, from low-income single-parent families, a deserving student furthering their education or just deserve a break”. She noted that applications are again being solicited for the fall granting period with a deadline of Sept. 30, 2003

For Release: Aug. 27, 2003              

Saint John Law Society Establishes Bursary Fund             

The President of The Saint John Law Society, Christopher T. Titus, announced today that the Society will be establishing a $10,000 permanently endowed Bursary Fund with The Greater Saint John Community Foundation. The fund will make an annual award of $500 to a deserving Saint John Area High School graduate planning to attend any post-secondary educational institution.

“The lawyers in our Society want to offer support to young people in our community and encourage them to further their education” he stated. We are pleased The Saint John Law Society has 2 nominees who sit on the Board of Directors of our community foundation, at present, they are Maria Henheffer and Sherrie Boyd.

 In accepting the new fund, Lino Celeste, Chairman of the Greater Saint John Community Foundation noted that the foundation is a strong supporter of youth and education. “Many groups want to provide for a special charitable purpose or organization and others want to help the wider spectrum of charities  supported by the community foundation by creating a named fund in honour of a special person or group. We try to assist donors with their personal philanthropic goals. Very recently, we received our first donation of equities” he said. By making a gift of stocks which have appreciated substantially, incurring capital gains, a donor can avoid paying out a large proportion in taxes and make a more significant charitable donation in addition to receiving a tax receipt.

 Mr. Titus encouraged high school graduates who meet the criteria for a bursary to apply for the first award by Sept. 15, 2003. Application information is available on the foundation’s web-site or by contacting him or the foundation office. “After this initial award, we will be presenting the bursary at spring graduation” he concluded.

 The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $7 M. In 2002, it donated in excess of  $315,000.00 to 74 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly, Apr. 15 and Sept. 30.

For release: June 30, 2004

Community Foundation Announces New Fund for Local Charities and UNBSJ

A Saint John Area Family wishing to give back to their community has donated to The Greater Saint John Community Foundation, creating a new fund which will annually support a charity of their choice and a new scholarship at UNBSJ. The donors, who wish to remain in the background, have an interest in many local causes. The award will recognize the efforts of a Saint John area student pursuing studies in English, a particular interest of the donors. The annual bursary will be $2,000 and be available this fall for the first time. In future, earnings from the permanently endowed fund will also be directed to a Saint John area charitable organization.

“It is encouraging to have generous community benefactors like this family come forward, who believe in Saint John and who intend to leave a lasting legacy here” said Lino Celeste, Chairman of the community foundation. “We find it doubly satisfying to help donors attain their charitable goals while adding to the pool of awards our local university can offer to Saint John area young people”, he added.

Applications for the bursary can be directed to UNBSJ. Last year the foundation supported awards valued at $15,500 from several permanently endowed funds and gifts including The Dr. Malcolm Somerville Bursaries in Business, The Saint John Law Society Bursary, Students Abroad, Supersteel Band Bursary, C.N. Wilson Scholarships, Philip Oland Scholarships, The Walter Harris Scholarships, the Florence Christie Bursary.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation serves as a trustee for charitable, educational and cultural purposes. It administers funds given by public-spirited individuals for the benefit of the people of this area. Since 1976, the foundation’s assets have grown to approximately $7.5 M. In 2003, it donated in excess of $250,000.00 to over 70 local charities. Applications from local registered charities are received twice yearly.

 

For Release :Nov.  11, 2002

FORTY CHARITIES  BENEFIT  FROM

GREATER SAINT JOHN COMMUNITY FOUNDATION’S

 FALL GRANTS

Lino Celeste, Chairman of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation, has announced details of the grants awarded for the second half of the Foundation’s 26^th year. “ Our Board of Directors has approved grants of $201,270 to 40 Saint John Area charities”, he stated. “For the first time, we are helping thirteen registered charities that are new to us”.

Saint John’s two year old Mental Health Court is setting the pace for new trends in criminal justice country-wide. It involves a collaborative approach between judges, the accused who is mentally ill, lawyers, mental health professionals and probation services which has included Judge Alfred Brien and Dr. Vinod Joshi. A $5,000 grant will help evaluate the social benefits to the mentally ill and community at large, of the project. The Saint John Waterfront Development Partnership, the River Valley Community Centre, Norton Royal Canadian Legion and Greenwich Community Hall are all receiving funding for capital construction projects.

Six grants which will benefit children and youth will be funded by the newly established Children’s Aid Fund (formerly a fund from The Friends of the Children’s Aid Society). They include $3,000 for a summer camp to educate future environmental leaders, the purchase of 3 life-like computerized baby “dolls” for the school program “Baby Think it Over” which addresses teen pregnancy; $1,000 to assist in construction of a portable back-drop for the Felicita Dance Group and $1,000 to the John Howard Society’s Family Violence and Violence Prevention program for adolescents.

The C. N. Wilson Fund, established in 2000 by the family of the late Saint John philanthropist and business leader, is supporting The Cherry Brook Zoo, Hospice of Saint John, Family Services, South End Daycare and the Nature Conservancy of Canada. The only remaining undisturbed salt water marsh in the Bay of Fundy, The Musquash River and Estuary System, is slated for heightened activity by the Nature Conservancy. The grant of $7,500 will trigger a double match of $15,000  from the W. Garfield Weston Foundation and enable 69 acres of ecologically significant land to be purchased from The City of Saint John for protection and conservation.

Ten grants will directly assist  seniors’ projects. They will receive $54,800 from The Old Ladies Home Fund. The largest grant affecting seniors, $15,000, will go to the Saint John Library Region to purchase large print and talking books. They will be available at all the region’s libraries.  The fledgling Saint John Arts Centre, formerly ABEC, plans a partnership between seniors and children of limited financial means who participate in “PRO Kids” and will involve art classes. The Hammond River Valley School has plans for a community “Sunshine Room”, a multi-sensory centre to benefit stroke victims, autistic children and those suffering from brain injury etc.

Heritage preservation is another facet of the foundation’s granting with a $5,000 injection to help purchase the John Corey Domestic Textile collection of some 300 quilts, coverlets and blankets which, when finalized, will make the New Brunswick Museum a national leader in the field. A community cemetery restoration project at trinity Church in Springfield is also being supported with $2,000.

Nancy A. Creamer, Secretary of the Foundation Board, noted that applications and needs are increasing. “ We received requests totalling $575,811.42 in 50 separate  grant applications. It makes grant decisions very difficult”,  she said, “because all of the applications are worthy of support.”

Mike Doyle FCA, treasurer of the foundation noted “ We are very fortunate that  the T.R. Meighen Foundation is offering a matching program which could potentially increase our permanent endowment funds by $150,000. This means community-minded donors can multiply their community caring power if they make a gift in the next two months. We are attracting donors  who may contribute, for example, $50,000 to our community fund , which would  trigger a match of $25,000.We have almost reached our goal of $300,000 in new endowment gifts which will trigger the full $150,000 match from the T.R. Meighen Foundation.”

“At a time when resources are stretched in our community, many are pleased we have a community foundation to back needed programs and services. We are also pleased to have been entrusted with new in memoriam-type endowment funds, like The Paul Grannan Fund.” he concluded.

 

For Release: December, 2001

Friends of Children's Aid Society Establish Fund for Children with The Greater Saint John Community Foundation

The Board of Directors of The Friends of the Children's Aid Society of the County of Saint John Inc. has announced its intention to transfer all its assets, totalling approximately $110,000, to The Greater Saint John
Community Foundation, creating the Children’s Aid Fund.

Pictured at the signing ceremony for the transfer of assets are: standing l. to r., Greater Saint John Community Foundation Board members, Cheryl Robertson and Tom Gribbons; Friends of The Children’s Aid Society Treasurer Franklin O. Leger, Q.C. and board member Rev. Robert Friell. Seated l. to r. "Friends" board member Mrs. Val Crisp, Gerald S. McMackin, community foundation Vice-Chairman and Secretary , Mrs. Frances Daley, "Friends" President and Michael Doyle FCA, foundation treasurer.

As part of the program of equal opportunity undertaken in l966, the
government of the day took over the activities of such organizations as the Children's Aid Society of the County of Saint John, including adoptions and the protection of children.

In order to assist in the care and welfare of children in the city of Saint John and other parts of the county, the then directors of the Children's Aid Society incorporated a separate organization in 1965 known as The Friends of the Children's Aid Society of the County of Saint John Inc. and transferred investments to that organization.

During the past thirty-six years, the Friends have assisted local children in need by making grants to worthy groups for programs such as day care, free milk and teen mothers.

Mr. J. Esmonde Barry was the first President of The Friends of The Children’s Aid Society and was succeeded by Mrs. Frances Daley in 1970.

The treasurer of the Friends, Franklin O. Leger, Q.C., paid tribute to Mrs. Daley and the other board members, including the late Paul Prebble and Dr. Andy Bona.

"In a small but important way, I believe the Friends improved the situation for many less fortunate or troubled children", he said.

Mr. Leger noted that the board concluded that the time was opportune for the funds and the responsibility for their use to be transferred to The Greater Saint John Community Foundation.

Lino Celeste, Chairman of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation noted that there are many groups in Greater Saint John who are in a process of change due to declining membership or which were established for a purpose which has been outlived. " They can be confident their identity and raison d’etre is carried on when a fund such as this is established " he said.

Gerry McMackin, foundation Vice-Chairman added " This is a Christmas gift for all the children of our community, one that is permanent and will help us support the many applications we receive for the benefit of the children of Greater Saint John." The new fund, the Children’s Aid Fund, will support childrens’ projects and will continue to aid children in our community year after year. In 2001 the foundation made grants to 23 charities which will assist children.

 

For Release: November, 2001

Greater Saint John Community Foundation Announces New Gift, 2001 Grants at 25^th Anniversary Celebration

Over $246,000 in grants this year to 56 local charities were announced today as the Greater Saint John Community Foundation joined with local charitable groups and supporters to mark their 25^th year. Kevin Riley, Manager, Personal Trust, Royal Trust Atlantic Canada presented a cheque for $30,000 from the McKean Family Foundation on stage at the Community Foundation's Silver Anniversary Celebration to an appreciative Chairman, Lino Celeste. Established by the late Saint John High School teacher and philanthropist, Mary McKean, the gift will be immediately added to grants for the dozens of local charities the foundation supports annually.

Across Greater Saint John, from cenotaph rebuilding in Rothesay, an institutional stove for a seniors' centre in Hampton, stream restoration at Lepreau, a new Unity Park in Grand Bay-Westfield, signs at historic Kingston Corner, recreation facilities in Norton, furniture for a teen moms' residence in Saint John to a computer for a Disabled Group in Quispamsis, the grants were chosen from requests amounting to almost $1Million for 2001.

The foundation makes grants twice yearly . Thirty October grants amounted to $131,450. Of the 30, nine were first time recipients. They will use the funds to purchase a portable pool lift for the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, a computer for an employment training program, help Autistic children and their parents, provide counselling services to low-income persons, a drop-in centre for at-risk populations, boost recreational opportunities for financially disadvantaged children and theatre productions to school children. Seven projects will positively benefit seniors and be funded from The Old Ladies Home Fund. Seven projects will be funded from the C.N. Wilson Fund, recently established by the Wilson Family who transferred their Charles Wilson Family Foundation assets to the community foundation.

The Imperial Theatre was filled with recollections of twenty five Saint John Area charities, all past recipients of foundation grants over the last quarter century, as they each placed a candle on a huge anniversary cake. They were symbolic of the $2.9M in earnings from the community foundation's permanent endowment funds distributed to approximately 200 local charities since its inception in 1976.Musical tributes were made by the Salvation Army's Band, the Saint John String Quartet and St. Rose School's awarding winning choir under the direction of Maureen Beckwith.

Present from the foundation's founding group were Justice Wallace Turnbull who joined with foundation patron, Lieutenant Governor Marilyn Trenholme Counsell, in making an anniversary presentation, $250 in real silver coins, to the Saint John Human Development Council. Its forerunner, the Social Services Council of Greater Saint John received the first foundation grant in 1977.

Emcee, Paul Castle of CBC's award winning Information Morning's Harbour Lights Campaign received a kick-off gift of $5,000 for their annual Christmas drive for area food banks. Mayors and Councillors from six area municipalities marked International Year of Volunteers by presenting a volunteers souvenir to a charity from their community which had received a 2001 foundation grant. They ranged from Norton to Grand Bay-Westfield.

Retiring Board Vice-Chairman Gerry McMackin was singled out for exceptional community service by chairman, Lino Celeste, for recognition after serving the board for twelve years. "Gerry has been the heart and soul of the foundation for over a decade. He is responsible, in large measure, for several new funds we've established and the enhanced presence we now enjoy in our community" he stated.

 

For Release: April 16, 2001

Community Foundation announces Jane Armstrong Earl Fund

The achievements of a noted international journalist with ties to Saint John are being permanently honored by her husband, Lawrence Earl, of Grand Bay-Westfield. The Jane Armstrong Earl Fund has been established with The Greater Saint John Community Foundation in her memory with a contribution of $50,000.00.

The life of the late Margaret Jane Isabel Alison Armstrong Earl has been compared to an exciting and romantic movie script. The daughter of a successful Toronto lawyer and businessman, she grew up aspiring to be a newspaperwoman. She achieved her dream with a career that started with the "Mail and Empire", forerunner of The Globe and Mail, and moved on to The Toronto Telegram, The Montreal Standard, The Toronto Star and the British magazine "Illustrated".

During the Second World War , she renewed an earlier acquaintance with her husband-to-be in London, while serving as one of only two women war correspondents. London became their home for the next 50 years. She reported regularly from the British House of Commons. They became a syndicated team. Interviewing the first King of Italy after the War and Queen Juliana of The Netherlands were highlights of their joint careers. Mr. Earl, a winner of The Stephen Leacock Award for Humour, has written over a dozen books, and is known for his photography. He is a native of the Saint John Area, where the Earls maintained a home over the years. Mr. Earl was the founding Editor of Saint John High School's student newspaper, The Red and Gray, in the 1930's. It is still published by Saint John High today as The Vitalis.

A biography of Jane Armstrong Earl in available here in PDF format.

Lino Celeste, Chairman of The Greater Saint John Community Foundation, expressed his appreciation for Mr. Earl's generous gift, " This gift is significant not only to those close to Mrs. Earl, but also to our community. It is important to recognize the accomplishments of such a talented and successful writer who regularly returned to and spent many happy times in New Brunswick." Gerry McMackin, secretary of the Board, stated " The establishment of a fund to honour a family member is a wonderful and lasting way to celebrate their memory." He noted that Mr. Earl's donation qualifies for a matching gift of $25,000 from The T.R. Meighen Foundation to the Greater Saint John Community Foundation's common fund. Mr. McMackin. stated, " Mr. Earl's generosity effectively resulted in a $75,000.00 boost to the foundation's endowment funds."