You Can Make A Difference

When I interviewed people for The Well-Lived Life, I was stuck by how many said they wouldn’t be leaving a legacy. Sometimes this was said with resentment or defensiveness – they didn’t have the resources, they hadn’t done anything noteworthy. No one would remember them – or at least not for long. One aspect of legacy is our charitable giving and it’s worrisome to look at the trends. The number of Canadians who give and the average amounts of our gifts have been decreasing for years. My discussions shed some light on why. While people often express feelings of generosity and concern when it comes to their community, they don’t know how to contribute in a satisfying way. They aren’t sure their small contributions will make a dint in the enormity of the problems. And they don’t know what organizations can be counted on to get the money where it’s needed. These feelings are being expressed by people at all income levels.

The Victoria Rapid Relief Fund shows what happens when these issues can be addressed. The Fund was set up a few days ago to provide help to the most vulnerable people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s designed to get money quickly into the hands of front-line organizations that are already providing food and housing support and have excellent reputations in meeting community needs. The Fund is being managed by the Victoria Foundation with its first-rate record of governance and fiscal responsibility. First phase funding is being allocated to five charities representing 80 organizations. Their food networks are feeding people, childcare facilities are providing child care for essential workers, and those in danger of losing their homes are receiving rent, hydro subsidies and income support. Thirty-six hours after the Fund was launched it met its target of $1M and, in the next few days, it more than doubled that amount. The minimum contribution is $5 and thousands of people have donated. For people wondering how they can help in a way that makes them happy, the Fund is providing the answer.