The Ottawa Citizen
May 22, 2003
The city's fastest-growing charitable organization, the Community Foundation of
Ottawa feted its first 15 years of existence last night at the National Press Club.
Businesswoman Grete Hale, a founding member of the organization, told a gathering of donors, volunteers and prominent community members about the foundation's first major grant: a play structure at Brewer Park, equipped with specialized play structures to allow disabled and able-bodied children to play together.
Since then, says donor John Scott, the foundation has become the most important philanthropic organization in Ottawa.
. "I call it the charity of charities," said Mr. Scott, a lawyer. "There's no agenda. What's needed is done, whether it's for the environment, the arts or poverty."
The foundation has $62 million, which is actively invested. The returns on those investments are used to fund about 200 grants per year, ranging in size from under $1,000 to as much as $50,000.
"This is a great organization, with great people, doing great things," said Maureen Molot, chairwoman of the organization's board of governors.
Last night's celebration featured the launch of People. Partnerships. Community - a history commissioned by the organization and written by Valerie Knowles.
"It's important to do this while many of the people are still around," said Mrs. Knowles.
Who We Are 
