From wildfire recovery in Jasper to funding Indigenous-led projects and student bursaries, the Western Communities Foundation (WCF) directed over $43,000 in 2024 to support wildfire response and Indigenous-led initiatives as part of its $699,244 in total donations for the year.
The charitable arm of Western Financial Group released its 2024 Annual Giving Report, outlining contributions to more than 160 organizations across Canada. The report also noted support for 37 community infrastructure projects and three Indigenous grants.
In addition to direct donations, Western Financial Group employees raised $311,883 through internal fundraising efforts. WCF’s National Walk saw 87% employee participation, resulting in $100,200 being distributed to over 100 local charities.
In response to the 2024 wildfires in Jasper, Alberta, WCF provided $20,000 for recovery efforts. Crisis counselling services were also offered to evacuees at no cost. Indigenous-focused support totaled more than $23,000, including funding for community-led projects and bursaries for students.
Through its #100kForGivingTuesday campaign in collaboration with CanadaHelps, WCF granted $100,000 to ten Canadian charities nominated by the public. These organizations work in areas such as health, education, mental wellness, and environmental causes.
Corporate sponsors and donors for 2024 included Wawanesa, Optiom Inc., SGI Canada, Intact Insurance, Definity, Greenshield, Peace Hills Insurance, BMS, Portage Mutual Insurance, Applied Systems, Aviva Canada, Northbridge Insurance, and Red Planet Software.
“In tough times, one message was clear: when care drives our actions and purpose leads the way, there is no limit to the positive changes we can make,” said Grant Ostir, president of WCF and CEO of Western Financial Group.
Nancy Green-Bolton, Western Financial Group’s chief operating officer and chair of the WCF board, said the organization continues its work to assist customers and communities in managing risks and protecting what matters to them.
“As we look ahead, we carry forward the momentum of the past year, guided by our unwavering commitment as Canada’s insurance broker to helping our customers and communities manage risks and ensure the protection of what is important to them,” said Green-Bolton.
Founded in 2001, the Western Communities Foundation delivers funding through initiatives such as community infrastructure grants, the Western Inspirational Awards for graduating high school students, and the Matching Grants Program. Since its founding, WCF has donated more than $9 million.
What role do you think charitable foundations connected to the insurance sector play in supporting disaster relief and local initiatives? Share your thoughts in the comments.
