Amplifying voices, sharing knowledge

A word from FGM – July 2024

Philanthropy can be a powerful tool for a community striving to meet the challenges it must face. But it is a tool that cannot be used in a vacuum. The goal is to generate effective action and positive change. Therefore, collaboration among all of the most dynamic elements in our society is vital.

That is why a community foundation’s mission has different facets to it. It goes beyond the creation of philanthropic funds and the distribution of grants to charitable organizations. Indeed, the Foundation of Greater Montréal has also evolved into a space for discussion, consultation and mobilization. FGM is a place where resources are shared, of course, but also knowledge, perspectives and ideas. Because in order to identify and implement sustainable solutions to the problems we are collectively experiencing, we must first build a common vision and understanding of those problems.

There are many ways to push for change

FGM’s Vital Signs of Greater Montreal series of reports is probably the most visible manifestation of this aspect of our mission. With the Vital Signs, the Foundation aims to inform, rally and mobilize our community around the most crucial issues it must confront. In gathering and disseminating contextualized and reliable data on the state of our society, our goal is to stimulate reflection and consultation, and bring about the far-reaching changes that society needs.

Vital Signs is just one part of this work, though. Through the positions it holds, the tools it creates and the information it disseminates, the Foundation also seeks to amplify voices that take clear stances, address issues in a committed and rigorous way, and spark action. Its own voice, yes, but also those of organizations and individuals often neglected or ignored, but whose contributions are indispensable.

We aspire, obviously, to make a difference by developing and democratizing philanthropy. But we also aim to bolster the capacity to act of our partners, and our sector as a whole. Thank you so much for keeping abreast of what we do, being a part of the conversation and making your contribution to this movement!

Catherine Fisette
Director, Public Affairs and Communications
Foundation of Greater Montréal

On the picture above: 2019 National Philanthropy Day organized by FGM. Photo credit: Ricardo Baron.