Series - Editorial Fellowship: Transforming Funding Models

This small foundation “turbocharged” its assets — but at what cost?

Author Gabe Oatley
The Community Foundation of Orillia and Area grew its assets from $1.5 million to $15 million in just 10 years.

Why It Matters

The growth strategies used by the Community Foundation of Orillia and Area have increased granting and improved some local charity’s investment returns. Experts are celebrating these wins, but caution there could also be downsides.

var TRINITY_TTS_WP_CONFIG = {"cleanText":"This small foundation \u201cturbocharged\u201d its assets \u2014 but at what cost?. TORONTO\/TREATY 13 - Michael Gordon has a remarkable story to tell, one detailing how the Community Foundation of Orillia and Area \u201cturbocharged\u201d its growth over the last decade, accumulating more than $15 million in assets and increasing its annual granting by over $400,000.\u00a0 But a presentation by the foundation\u2019s board president was met with mixed feedback and a barrage of questions during the Community Foundations of Canada annual conference in Toronto earlier this year.\u00a0 To some, it\u2019s a Cinderella story. \u201cI just want to compliment you because truly, you are working side-by-side with the charitable organizations in your community,\u201

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