Treasurer, Anglican Diocese of Edmonton
Edmonton, Alberta
Diocesan Representative for Edmonton
In the Diocese of Edmonton, we have always supported the Anglican Foundation and have called on it occasionally for building projects over the years. Recently, though, our use of the Foundation became more creative. In 2014 our diocese launched a five-year capital fundraising campaign with the proceeds split between the diocese and parishes. This gave parishes a source of funds for projects going beyond their existing ministry. However, because donations were spread out over five years, the funds were slow to start coming in. Several parishes applied for matching grants from the Anglican Foundation which allowed them to get going and demonstrate results while enthusiasm was still high. The projects that were made possible include:
- A literacy and computer skills program for recent immigrants.
- Pastoral support and activities for members of a local militia unit.
- Accessible washrooms and audiovisual equipment enabling more community use of a parish hall.
- Improvements to a kitchen that serves community meals to hundreds of people from the neighbourhood every week.