An important part of Hamilton Community Foundation’s work is community leadership and convening. We bring together people and resources – financial, relationships and knowledge – to tackle Hamilton’s most pressing issues. In this section you can read more about HCF initiatives including:
Community Investing
In simple terms, community investing is defined as a process whereby foundations directly invest some of their assets in the community, or social/environmental enterprises consistent with their mission. The investments can take the form of an investment into ventures operated by charities or non-profits engaged in a social purpose – for example, affordable housing. They may also take the form of a loan, (rather than a grant), to qualified organizations, for charitable purposes which also further our mission.
Poverty Reduction Focus
More than 20 percent of Hamilton’s residents are living in poverty – one of the highest rates in Ontario. Children, aboriginal Canadians, new immigrants and other groups face even higher rates of poverty. Read how Hamilton Community Foundation is tackling poverty in a multi-pronged approach.
Neighbourhood Focus
Healthy and vibrant neighbourhoods play an important part in Hamilton’s quality of life. Read about HCF’s extensive work in building on the assets of four Hamilton’s challenged neighbourhoods and how the learning continues to inform its ongoing work.
Women 4 Change
Women 4 Change was established in 2012 by a group of local women who came together with HCF in a mission to inspire and enable the women of Hamilton to become leaders in philanthropy, improving the lives of women and girls in our community through collective giving.
Read about our some of our past community leadership initiatives, including after-school programming, new immigrant employment and serving the needs of Aboriginal youth.