Fondation Philanthropie Outaouais (FPO) to Administer 15 Funds Totalling Nearly $1 million

Ottawa, ON – February 25, 2025

The Ottawa Community Foundation is celebrating a significant milestone in philanthropy for the Outaouais Region after completing the transfer of 15 funds totalling nearly $1 million to Fondation Philanthropie Outaouais (FPO).

The Ottawa Community Foundation has long championed the role and impact of charitable giving in local communities. Since 2016, it has worked with FPO’s founding board members and donors in the Outaouais to incubate and grow funds that benefit the region. A unique feature of these funds was a provision allowing their transfer to FPO once it achieved full status as a community foundation.

To mark this occasion, FPO will be hosting a launch event this evening (February 25, 2025), celebrating its expanded role in supporting philanthropy in the region.

“With this transfer, we’re honouring our collective success,” said Michael Maidment, President and CEO of the Ottawa Community Foundation. “We were proud to care for these funds on behalf of generous donors until they were ready to be handed off. One of the strengths of community foundations is their deep connection to local needs, so we know they’ll be in good hands.”

Rock Poulin, Chair of FPO’s Board, acknowledged the transition and successful partnership with the OCF as an important step forward.

“Philanthropie Outaouais Foundation is committed to rethinking philanthropy, bringing together key stakeholders, and strengthening their collaboration to maximize their collective impact. We are thankful for the Ottawa Community Foundation’s collaboration in helping us get to this milestone.”

The OCF approved and initiated the transfer this past December, working closely with FPO to ensure a smooth transition.

This achievement builds on previous efforts, including the OCF’s past commitment to the Smart & Caring Communities initiative introduced by Community Foundations of Canada in 2013. This vision—endorsed by the Right Honourable David Johnston, then Governor General of Canada—aimed to ensure that every community across Canada had access to a community foundation.

Beyond the Outaouais, the OCF has collaborated with other neighbouring communities, including North Grenville, North Lanark, Merrickville-Wolford, and Stormont-Dundas & Glengarry.

About Ottawa Community Foundation (OCF): Established in 1987, the Ottawa Community Foundation (OCF) exists to improve life for people in the community and beyond, now and in the future. As an advocate for the impact of giving and a “charity for charities,” the OCF works with donors to achieve their goals and to support community needs across all causes. By engaging partners to tackle key issues, it envisions a vibrant and robust community where everyone can thrive.

About Fondation Philanthropie Outaouais (FPO): Fondation Philanthropie Outaouais is a foundation created by and for the residents of the Outaouais. Its goal is to support the establishment of funds and the growth of organizations in the region by enabling them to access additional and complementary resources. Fondation Philanthropie Outaouais operates within a strong and recognized national network that offers support and guidance. Our vision is to support initiatives that promote the development of united, proud, vibrant and diverse communities in the Outaouais.

For further information or inquiries:

Ottawa Community Foundation
Barry Lam
Manager, Communications
Ottawa Community Foundation
Phone: 613-563-7121
Email: blam@ocf-fco.ca

For French inquiries
Milo Grandchamp
Associate, Communications
Ottawa Community Foundation
Phone: 613-563-7130
Email: mgrandchamp@ocf-fco.ca

Fondation Philanthropie Outaouais
Catia Céméus
Directrice générale
Fondation philanthropie outaouais
Phone : 613-804-8444
Email : dg@philanthropieoutaouais.com