Social Consciousness Community Building

Nurtured by eight trail-blazing women and launched in 1991, the Canadian Women’s Foundation is Canada’s public foundation for diverse women and girls. It has become one of the largest women’s foundations in the world, raising more than $100 million and funding over 1,950 programs across the country.

Understanding that gender equality improves economic and social conditions for everyone, the programs address gender-based violence, economic security, girls’ empowerment, and inclusive leadership.

For Sylvie, who came to British Columbia from Africa, Canadian Women’s Foundation helped fund her future. Its support of the TechWomen program designed to give digital training skills to newcomers, helped her prepare for a career in the tech sector and navigate the job market.

Stephanie blossomed thanks to the Foundation’s funding of Operation Grow, a hydroponic farm in Ontario. The fresh produce grown and sold year round helps to reduce food insecurity, provides employment stability and breaks multi-generation poverty.

Regional and national projects include the Black Innovation Fellowship, addressing barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs launching new businesses, as well as an online girls group mentoring toolkit that connects girls with role models and peers.

The Foundation also brokers exchanges between community organizations across Canada to share ideas and solutions, and host webinars featuring community leaders and issue experts.

Supported by dedicated donors, in 2018/19, more than 9300 lives were impacted; 29 programs serving remote areas, and 26 programs primarily serving First Nations, Métis, and Inuit residents.

What began as a conversation between friends has grown into a national organization that supports communities, empowering women and girls to move out of violence, out of poverty, and into confidence and leadership.