Just recently, 130 people gathered at Rembrandt’s Restaurant in Lockport to celebrate the success of the Selkirk and District Community Foundation (SDCF), which has distributed more than $1 million in grants during its 15-year history.

The evening included recognition of Lewis Wasel, the first board chair, for his vital leadership role, as well as the launch of three engaging new videos that demonstrate SDCF’s community impact. Attendees were all friends of the foundation and even after the official program came to a close, the conversations and camaraderie continued.

During dinner, our table had an interesting discussion about an early decision by the SDCF Board to invest $120,000 into a needed piece of hospital equipment. It was described as a “game changer” that has profoundly affected the level of medical service in the community. That led to other examples of much smaller grants that were also making big differences in Selkirk.

A newspaper clipping from the 1990s had been placed on each table, and it included a comment by Hugh Arklie, Executive Director of the Thomas Sill Foundation. He predicted it would take fifteen years to realize the impact of Manitoba’s emerging community foundation movement. His comments are certainly proving true in Selkirk. And SDCF’s success is being replicated by almost 50 other community foundations across Manitoba.

Of course, all citizens should have a basic entitlement to public service. It follows that most public service will be funded by government, however, government can’t afford to “do it all.” In fact, government cost-cutting means the role of Manitoba community foundations is becoming more important. These organizations provide a permanent revenue source that meets local needs now and for future generations.

November is Endow Manitoba month, a great time to consider a gift to your local community foundation. To find a foundation near you, or learn more about the work of this growing philanthropic network, visit www.endowmanitoba.ca.