Some news from the Foundation of Greater Montréal

A word from FGM – May 2023

Dear FGM partners,

I am taking up my pen to address you one last time as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Foundation. After seven wonderful years of involvement, the time has come for me to pass the torch. I am very proud of having helped FGM flourish, and especially proud of what we have accomplished together over the past couple of years.

To better serve the Greater Montreal community, we have tirelessly worked to create new partnerships and modernize our ways of doing things. We have been able to combine reflection, collaboration and action, in order to better meet the needs of the community, certainly, but also with a view to developing stronger leadership, and thus truly embodying our guiding principles as a community foundation.

Whether it be in the way it manages and grows its assets, offers support to community organizations, or uses its influence to amplify the voices of those we don’t normally hear, FGM is working to transform the way in which philanthropy is practiced in Montreal, Quebec and Canada.

A Foundation always reinventing itself

Since 2020, and despite the effects of the pandemic, FGM has thus been able to develop a new strategic plan, put in place a philanthropic development committee and conceive a responsible investment strategy as well as an action plan in the areas of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. All of these tools will make tangible the innovative new orientations the Foundation has laid out for itself, and consolidate its standing as a leader in the philanthropic sector.

In closing, allow me to thank the Foundation’s donors, without whom none of this would be possible, as well as all the organizations we have supported over the years, to which our entire community owes a debt of gratitude. I also have a thought for all the other partners in the public, community and philanthropic sectors we have collaborated with on multiple projects. As well, I want to take this opportunity to thank the Foundation’s staff, and the members of the Board of Directors and its committees. Working with you was an incomparable experience and an immeasurable pleasure.

I am certain that FGM will continue to support, inspire and achieve positive change in Greater Montreal. You will no doubt come to the same conclusion as you read on about upcoming news from FGM and learn more about the exciting gatherings and partnerships that the Foundation will be part of in the coming weeks; and they only represent a fraction of its activities and overall vision. Thank you once again for your support, and hope to talk to you soon!

Kathy Fazel CFA, ICD.D
Chair of the Board of Directors
Foundation of Greater Montréal