Governance Update

“Taking on the role of chair of The WoodGreen Foundation during this time has given me a unique opportunity to witness, first-hand, the commitment of the board, leadership and staff of WoodGreen Community Services to our community. The better I get to know WoodGreen, the more I am impressed with the agency’s far-reaching contributions to community health and its success in helping to reduce disparities in the diverse populations we serve.” – Bill MacKinnon, Chair

In a year that tested us all, WoodGreen’s generous donor family stepped forward to meet the pressing needs of our clients and our community. Even while your own lives were dramatically altered, you made the selfless decision to give back. We are so fortunate to have such caring supporters.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unparalleled upheaval – increasing the hardships of individuals and families who were already struggling. It has illuminated and deepened systemic inequalities, making your support for WoodGreen’s clients much more crucial than ever.

During this past year, WoodGreen’s programs and services have been a critical lifeline, particularly in some of the city’s most challenged neighbourhoods. None of this work would have been possible without the dedication of our front-line teams – and the support of our philanthropic partners.

We were thrilled to welcome a number of new donors and are immensely grateful for the ongoing generosity of our longstanding donors. The contributions from a host of individuals, corporations and foundations helped WoodGreen shelter, feed, encourage, and safeguard the health and well-being of thousands of our most vulnerable neighbours. In addition, your support allowed us to move forward with a number of innovative partnerships and initiatives that will resonate in our community for years to come. As you read through this report, we hope you will be proud of the extremely supportive part you play in WoodGreen’s vital work.

Under the leadership of The Difference Makers campaign chair, Leo Salom, and with the support and wise counsel of honorary campaign chair, Ed Clark, The WoodGreen Foundation is closing in on meeting the ambitious $20 million goal of this poverty reduction campaign. Driven by your generosity, The Difference Makers will improve access to and expand and enhance vital programs, and inspire innovation to effect real, sustainable change. We believe it will help to create a more equitable city where everyone has an increased opportunity to thrive.

As we move toward recovery and a better tomorrow – amid the continuing social and economic ramifications of COVID-19 – we are counting on your continuing support. We believe these uncertain times call for us to move with speed and intention, to ensure a more equitable future that will reflect the insights and opportunities the pandemic has revealed.

Thank you for all your support and commitment to WoodGreen.