Stats Canada recently released the numbers for 2010 and, once again, Manitoba ranks first (at 26.3%) when it comes to tax filers who claim a charitable donation. This finding is consistent with previous years and with other research that says Manitobans donate one percent of their income to community organizations—again the highest level in Canada.
As I drove to work today, I was thinking about a December ad campaign that would encourage Manitobans to make an extra gift to their favourite charity or to a charity that they have not supported before. The theme would be: “Everyone gives. Everyone claims. Everyone wins. It’s the Manitoba way”.
When you are in first place, it is hard to ask for more and yet, at The Winnipeg Foundation, we see countless examples of worthwhile projects that require public support. We also welcome contributions to some of our own recent initiatives:
- The “You Can Do It Awards” provide inner-city kids from grades 5 to 12 with a $1,000 learning account to be applied to their future post secondary education in Manitoba. You can create a $1,000 award by donating $300 to the You Can Do It Awards Fund at The Winnipeg Foundation, which will be matched by the Province and the Foundation to make up the balance.
- Up until December 10th, you can support world class medical research taking place in Winnipeg. The Foundation is sponsoring a virtual race to raise funds for HIV/Aids research. For more information about this unique venture, visit the Virtual Marathon for Medical Research.
- You can help us “grow the orchard” through our Nourishing Potential Fund. The Fund provides snacks and meals for Winnipeg children and youth. In just the first year, we have already “harvested” 28 grants (almost $175,000). Every gift helps.
Manitoba has a relatively small population and we are geographically isolated. As a result, if we want our community organizations to flourish, we have to step up more than others. Twenty-six percent of us claim a charitable gift on our tax returns and, together, we donate one percent of our income. Even though these numbers lead the nation, there is opportunity to do better. The need is so apparent, and this is the season to give just a bit more.
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.
